Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s last ‘Paquita’
Paquita holds a special place in Ballet Manila artistic director Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s heart. She has performed the divertissement on many occasions, marveling at the challenging technical demands for a scene that holds so much joy for the lead characters.
For BM’s ongoing 31st season, Lisa takes her place on the choreographer’s chair to present a full-length version of this fiery Spanish ballet for the first time in the Philippines. With principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro and soloist Shamira Drapete alternating in the lead role, Lisa promises a romantic adventure that Filipino ballet fans will certainly embrace!
In this clip from The Legends and the Classics Encore (2013), Lisa danced as Paquita for the last time with her then dance partner, principal artist Rudy De Dios. Together, the pair delivered a magical performance that left the crowd completely enchanted.
Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s Paquita will run from June 19 to 21 at the Aliw Theater.
Top photo by Jojo Mamangun
