‘Don Quixote’ by Ballet Manila Set for Restaging this May
After mounting Martin Lawrance’s Romeo & Juliet, Ballet Manila is set to restage Don Quixote as its second production for its 25th season.
Ballet Manila’s Principal Dancer Jasmine Pia Dames and San Francisco Ballet’s Principal Dancer Esteban Hernandez are set to headline the show as Kitri and Basilio respectively. Dames also danced the role the last time the company staged the show in 2017, alternating with former Ballet Manila Principal Dancers Katherine Barkman and Dawna Mangahas.
Set in Spain, the story tells the tale of Don Quixote, who decides to become a knight and embark on a journey to find Lady Dulcinea, a lover that he has only made up in his head. The ballet places special focus on the love story between Kitri and Basilio, a pair he encounters during his adventures.
“The challenges that Ballet Manila has faced these past years have proven our grit and resilience in the face of adversity, which I believe is relatable with Don Quixote’s burning passion, the love for adventure and challenges to prove oneself,” says Ballet Manila’s CEO and Artistic Director Lisa Macuja Elizalde. “It also fills me with so much excitement to showcase our edge in classical ballet once again as a dance company with the return of Don Quixote this year.”
She adds, “The role of Kitri has always been one of my favorite ballerina roles. As a mentor and director, it brings me great joy to see Ballet Manila’s future Kitris embody the grace, strength, and passion that this role demands. We see this as an opportunity to showcase the depth of talent in our company.”
During the company’s 25th season launch, it was announced that Barkman was set to return to play Kitri. However, due to a persistent injury, the company has said that she will be unable to perform the role.
Don Quixote will be staged on May 27, 2023, 8 PM and May 28, 2023, 5 PM at the Aliw Theater. You can watch an excerpt of Don Quixote performed at the company’s 25th season launch below.
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