The season starts in September

MANILA, Philippines - BP presents “September Gala” at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Main Theater from Sept. 3 to 5, featuring a collection of classical, neo classical and contemporary dance.

BP’s 41st season opener is made epic with evening performances with the Manila Symphony Orchestra.  

In the spirit of the Chopin bicentennial this year, Michel Fokine’s’ Les Sylphides, with it’s immortal Chopin score opens the gala. Other classical highlight includes the technically challenging Diana and Acteon. Local contributions include the premiere of Alden Lugnasin’s Bungansakit (Fruit of Sacrifice) based on a local legend from the choreographer’s own home town in Leyte and Victor Ursabia’s original dance work Sapin-Sapin. 

Also in the repertoire is Gopak, a virtuous male solo from the ballet Taras Bulba depicting a free-spirited Ukranian warrior. The gala will also feature the winning piece from BP’s Choreographer’s Cup, a project that hopes to develop young Filipino choreographers in the classical idiom. 

Successful dance idols from the Philippine Diaspora contribute the gala’s neo-classical premieres. Carlo Pacis, soloist and noted choreographer of the Hong Kong Ballet, comes home to premiere his first work in Manila. His Shifting Wait, will extend the BP dancers range of motion as it features a developed vocabulary based on a novel system of handles sewn unto the dancers’ costumes.

Former Boston and Atlanta Ballet principal dancer, Nicolas Pacaña likewise returns to set his Symphony in C for the company. Channeling Balanchine, whose choreography the danseur had often performed, Pacaña has choreographed his own interpretation to the well-loved Bizet score.

Ballet Philippines principal dancers Carissa Adea, Angel Gabriel and Katherine Sanchez –Trofeo will essay the lead parts with the triumphantly returning couple of Candice Adea and Jean Marc Cordero..

The BP dancers are excited with the scheduled visit of William Morgan, ballet master, who will coach them in the weeks leading up to the performance. Morgan has had a long history with the company and indeed to Philippine Ballet. His many productions of the classics have gifted audiences with unforgettable performances that are remembered till today. After more than a decade’s absence, Morgan will again be teaching and inspiring the ballet at the CCP.

BP’s “September Gala” kicks off its “Hero’s Journey” season that continues with Crisostomo Ibarra in October, Peter Pan in December culminating with a new production of Don Quixote in February.

For inquiries, call 551-0221/832-6011.