Ballet, theater, & symphony create magic
The country’s leading professional classical and contemporary dance institution Ballet Philippines (BP) opened its 56th season with a truly historic and spectacular gala entitled “Three Masters, One Stage,” uniting it with Repertory Philippines (Rep) and the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) in an unforgettable evening at The Theatre at Solaire in Parañaque City.
Under the leadership of BP chairman Antonio O. Cojuangco and president Kathleen Liechtenstein, Rep president and CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio, and MSO president Maan Hontiveros, the event was, indeed, one for the books as this was the first time these three institutions performed together on stage. The world-class double bill delighted audiences with Rep’s vibrant Peter and the Wolf narrated by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa, and BP’s enchanting Little Red Riding Hood choreographed by its artistic director Mikhail Martynyuk.
With maestro Marlon Chen conducting MSO’s stirring live music and an atmosphere brimming with artistry, collaboration, and cultural pride, the evening both celebrated creative excellence and inclusivity as over 1,000 free seats were gifted to families from underserved communities, military personnel, indigenous communities, and other partner groups.
Of chic and white
The always lovely and bubby Agile Zamora was feted with an infinity friendship party hosted and organized by her ever-thoughtful good friend Aj Olpindo at the newly opened Smith & Wollensky steakhouse in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
The chic white-themed set-menu dinner, which catered to about 50 dear friends, was made all the more enchanting with live jazz, a soulful singer, and a talented pianist which created an elegant evening brimming with warmth, music, and unforgettable memories.
A festival of light, love & renewal
The effervescent couple Shilpa and Raj Tolani, members of the Hindu Temple in Manila, invite everyone to celebrate Diwali, the radiant Festival of Lights, ongoing until Oct. 24.
A luminous symbol of faith, joy, and renewal, the festivity marks the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. Rooted in ancient Hindu tradition yet embraced across cultures, the five-day festival unites communities around the world in the spirit of gratitude, hope, and harmony. Through the glow of countless lamps, the sharing of sweets, and heartfelt gatherings, Diwali reminds us of the enduring power of goodness and the brilliance of the human spirit.
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You may email me at jjlitton@indanet.com. Follow me on Facebook and YouTube: Johnny Litton by Jayelles PH and on Instagram: @jayellesph.
