The new season marks a historic collaboration with Repertory Philippines and Manila Symphony Orchestra, bringing the magic of “Peter and the Wolf” and “Little Red Riding Hood” to the stage through music, drama, and dance.
To open its 56th Season, classical and contemporary dance company Ballet Philippines is teaming up with renowned theater company Repertory Philippines and Manila Symphony Orchestra to present a double-bill of beloved classics—a symphonic tale for children based on “Peter and the Wolf” and a full-length ballet of “Little Red Riding Hood.”
This production marks the first time in Philippine performing arts history where three of the country’s premier cultural institutions are joining forces to bring music, drama, and dance together in one stage for a spectacular family-friendly production.
Running for five performances only from August 1 to 3, 2025 at the Theatre at Solaire, the production promises to be a culturally enriching experience for all ages, with live orchestral music (the Manila Symphony Orchestra even having a special spot on stage), captivating theatrical storytelling, and mesmerizing choreography.
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Two Tales, Three Masters, One Stage
Written by Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev, each character of “Peter and the Wolf” is represented by a corresponding instrument in the orchestra: the bird by a flute, the duck by an oboe, the cat by a clarinet, the grandfather by a bassoon, the wolf by horns, and Peter by the strings. This creative rendition of the story is meant to be an engaging introduction to the world of theater for younger audiences, and a fresh spin on a beloved tale for older viewers.
Meanwhile, the ballet of “Little Red Riding Hood” features the compositions of French conductor Camille Saint-Saens (namely those from his work The Carnival of the Animals, including the iconic “Le cygne” or “The Swan”) and Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg. Through dance and acting, the performance is a playful reimagination of the classic fairytale by Charles Perrault, following the adventures of a little girl who discovers the power of kindness amid her harrowing encounters with the Big Bad Wolf.
Collaborating For A Cause
The production is not just an artistic milestone: it’s also a major community outreach initiative. As part of this program, around 1,000 seats will be made available free of charge for families from selected barangays, giving underserved communities access to a transformative performing arts experience.
Premiere seats will be available for avid patrons and the general public, whose support will help sustain and expand future outreach efforts.
“This initiative is about more than just performance—it’s about access, education, and inspiring the next generation,” shared Repertory Philippines President and CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio, Ballet Philippines President Kathleen Liechtenstein, and Manila Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Jeffrey Solares in a joint statement. “By opening our doors to families from across the community, we hope to spark a lifelong love for the arts.”
Blending theatrical storytelling by Repertory Philippines, breathtaking dance by Ballet Philippines, and live symphonic music by Manila Symphony Orchestra, the production promises to be a memorable event that will entertain, educate, and elevate in equal measure.
Photos courtesy of Ballet Philippines and Buensalido Public Relations.
