Becoming Prince Siegfried
In the world of classical ballet, the role of Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake is considered among the most complicated roles for a danseur. The character is present in all four Acts but unlike Basilio in Don Quixote and Albrecht in Giselle, the opportunity for fast spins and big jumps is limited. Instead, it challenges the dancer to express the development of the character through understated but elegant movements.
The late Osias “Shaz” Barroso Jr., former co-artistic director of Ballet Manila, assumed the role multiple times. Through every show, he would discover facets of the character that would give more depth to his next performance.
In this clip, we hear the voice of Shaz explaining the many challenges of becoming Prince Siegfried.
Ballet Manila’s Swan Lake at Aliw Theater will feature San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Esteban Hernandez and soloist Nathaniel Remez alternating as Siegfried, partnering San Francisco Ballet first soloist Katherine Barkman and Ballet Manila principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro, respectively, as Odette/ Odile. Esteban and Katherine will perform on May 30, 8 p.m.; May 31, 5 p.m.; and June 1, 5 p.m; and Nathaniel and Abigail on May 31, 1 p.m. and June 1, 1 p.m.
