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 Rafael Perez
For Ballet Manila’s 31st year, Geri – now Ballet Manila co-artistic associate – is entrusting the role to soloists Jos David Andes and Rafael “Paeng” Perez.
He puts forward that being a soloist comes with the awareness that one is inevitably going to be someone whom the younger dancers look up to, “kaya kailangan good example ako lagi.”
After winning raves for the purely classical Swan Lake last year, Ballet Manila is all set to return to Dumaguete with its award-winning blockbuster ballet – Ibong Adarna.
Andres Bonifacio has been a source of fascination for Ballet Manila co-artistic associate and resident choreographer Gerardo Francisco Jr.
Since their roles were originally choreographed for Joshua Enciso and Abigail Oliveiro, Rafael and Shamira were admittedly pressured by the idea that they wouldn’t be able meet the gold standard set by the two principal dancers.
Just a year after his comeback to Ballet Manila – preceded by three years of not dancing – Rafael Perez got a seal of approval that his return was worth it.
In this slideshow are photographs of the performances with Ballet Manila continuing the legacy of the Vaganova method and upholding the highest standards of excellence in the classics.
To make his return possible, Paeng addressed the things that were holding him back.
Ballet Manila has highlighted some of these historical figures in choreographies that, while extolling their virtuous traits, also explore inner struggles which humanize them and make them relatable to present-day audiences.
In celebration of National Heroes Day, we look back on a choreography by Ballet Manila artistic associate and principal dancer Gerardo Francisco Jr. on Filipino hero Andres Bonifacio.
Bayani reflects Bonifacio’s willingness to fight, so that the mode is like he is going to battle. In interpreting the piece, Geri advised Niño to internalize those qualities so that the hero’s character would shine through.
Life is like dancing. If we have a big floor, many people will dance. Some will get angry when the rhythm changes. But life is changing all the time.
Every day brings a chance for you to draw in a breath, kick off your shoes, and dance.
Last year, tasked to create contemporary pieces for Ballet Manila’s participants in the CCP Ballet Competition, Gerardo Francisco – who is the company’s resident choreographer – decided to revisit the theme.
