Ballet: Don Quixote

From February 9 to 18, Ballet Philippines will be staging a shortened version of Don Quixote at CCP's Main Theater. This version is very short and palatable, divided into 3 acts with two intermissions such that even newcomers will enjoy.

The show boasts a solid cast, from the ensemble to the leads. Both male and female leads, Joseph Gatti and Candice Adea performed very well both during solos and pas des deux. Honestly, during the performance I watched, the former shined a bit brighter than the latter due to the seeming effortlessness of the male. Then again, it's hard to be a girl on pointe shoes!

The set was unexpectedly lavish, windmills available. Costumes were par for the course. All in all, a visual treat. Music was done by the Manila Symphony Orchestra - enjoy the interludes between acts.

I do not know how other performers will fare, but I do recommend watching the Gatti and Adea performance.

Review: Giselle by Ballet Philippines

Watched Giselle, performed by Ballet Philippines on opening night (August 16, 2013). Giselle is the first ballet of the 44th season of Ballet Philippines. It was definitely an experience after a nice dinner with M. The First Act was a bust: ballerinas twitching all over the place, you could see the strain; danseur's failing to synch like a bad DL. While the Giselle wasn't bad, she wasn't spectacular. On the other hand, the Duke had a bit of trouble.

The Second Act was gorgeous: Very coordinated Willis! :) The Duke, Giselle, Hilarion and - especially- Myrtha performed wonderfully.

My advice: snooze through the first act (you're not missing anything) and see the second.



Extra: For those who are interested, CBTL is having another open house this Sunday (August 18, 2013). Happy weekend!