The Ballet Manila Archives is the repository of documents, print, photographic, audio and video materials and memorabilia relating to the history of Ballet Manila and the life and career of its founder, prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde. This site is powered by Ms. Elizalde and Project Art, Inc.
All tagged Melanie Motus
This set of photos shows a sampling of those international influences that have converged on the Ballet Manila stage, fittingly brought to life by a multi-national cast.
As Lisa Macuja Elizalde wrote in her director’s notes, “Only the versatile and most productive choreographer Osias Barroso would do as our ballet’s creator. Who else can deliver a musical score in three days and an entire story ballet in three weeks?”
There is a reason why the second act of the ballet Giselle is especially haunting. It is dominated by the wilis.
Ballerinas Aileen Gallerina, Pamela Asprer, Melanie Motus and Sandralynn Huang share their thoughts from that groundbreaking Le Corsaire production. Added to the mix is a recent recollection from Eileen Lopez, a BM pioneer who is now the company’s co-artistic associate.
Ballet Manila’s first full-length The Nutcracker, staged at the GSIS Theater in December 1998, was the completion of “another one of life’s full cycles” for then artistic associate and principal dancer – now artistic director – Lisa Macuja-Elizalde.
Gabriela ng Vigan is a free interpretation in a dance-drama of Gabriela Silang’s struggles.
Dance with me showcased nearly 30 photographs measuring 20” x 30”, each one focusing on movement rather than on poses.
Another inspiration for Giselle was reportedly French novelist Victor Hugo’s poem Fantomes, featured in the anthology Les Orientales (1829)
One of Osias Barroso’s earliest assignments as a choreographer was also among the most challenging.
Choreographer Edna Vida doesn’t like to make things easy for dancers. In fact, Pulp Asia – which was commissioned by Ballet Manila in 1998 – was meant for them to push their limits.
Since Ballet Manila started having a regular performance season in 1995, it has always included an all-Filipino production among its season offerings.
Gabriela, OPM, Atbp… The Philippine Centennial Celebration of Ballet Manila was staged on May 30 and 31 at the GSIS Theater.
