Ballet Philippines’ Peter Pan gala performance had audiences cheering and clapping along to magical performances that transported them to Neverland.
Ballet Philippines recently held its much-anticipated gala of Peter Pan at the Theatre at Solaire, marking the start of the holiday season. The evening brought together members from the arts and culture community, loyal patrons, and new supporters who all shared a deep love for ballet. There were also a number of families that attended the evening’s performance, young children surrounded by grandparents and parents, fully immersed in the familiar and magical world of Neverland, made new with captivating dance performances.
The gala was not only a celebration of Ballet Philippines’ latest production, but also the company’s legacy. Ballet Philippines president Kathleen Liechtenstein delivered a heartfelt speech honoring Eddie Elejar (who was seated at the front row that evening), co-founder of the company, for his groundbreaking contributions to Philippine ballet.
In her opening remarks, Liechtenstein also highlighted the company’s enduring commitment to bringing ballet to more communities. As part of their outreach program, a group of Aeta children from Zambales were treated to a performance of Peter Pan the following day. This initiative—part of Ballet Philippines’ “Ballet Brigade”—underscored the company’s mission to inspire and uplift the Filipino youth through the art of dance.
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Reimagining Peter Pan
Peter Pan, featuring choreography by Ballet Philippines’ artistic director Mikhail “Misha” Martynyuk, reimagined the timeless tale with a new libretto, music, costumes, and set designs, while remaining true to the classical discipline of ballet.
The set design was an impressive feat, taking audiences to the sepia-toned streets of London and the serene abode of the darlings, before whisking them to the lush, vibrant world of Neverland with its jungles and mermaid lagoons. The sets also had a storybook-esque, illustrated quality to them that enhanced the viewing experience.
Costumes, designed by Martynyuk’s wife Eleonora, stayed true to the aesthetic sensibilities of the story (including some influences from the animated Disney classic), while also accommodating the dancers’ physical demands. The outfits were an integral part of the performances, flowing and stretching with their movements seamlessly.
Journey To Neverland
The dancers were the beating heart of the gala performance, each one embodying the spirit of their respective characters. Ballet Philippines principal dancer Rudolph Capongcol brought out the exuberance and sprightly energy of the boy who never grew up; principal dancer Reigna Magbitang was a spunky Tinkerbell; principal dancer Jemima Reyes played the graceful, put-together, and caring older sister Wendy Darling perfectly; real-life brothers Emmerson and Eduardson Evangelio were convincing as her mischievous younger brothers John and Michael; Clarise Miranda played a powerful Tiger Lily; and soloist Mark Balucay conveyed a truly menacing Captain Hook with his slick, conniving movements.
The Crocodile (played by Cris Jay Malipot)—known for always chasing after Captain Hook in the Disney movie (and the culprit behind his missing hand)—also gave a memorable performance, timed to the ticking of a clock that got audiences of all ages clapping and laughing.
While Wendy and her brothers inevitably leave Neverland to return to their parents, like the characters, audiences will likely remember the wonderful experience for years to come even when they’re well out of the theater. With its artistry, outreach, and celebration of community, the gala performance of Peter Pan highlighted the heart of Ballet Philippines: a commitment to creating unforgettable moments and sharing the joy of ballet with all.
Photos courtesy of Ballet Philippines.
