Ballet Philippines marked the grand opening of its 55th season with an unforgettable and well-attended gala event at the Theatre at Solaire, celebrating the season’s launch with an impressive performance of La Sylphide. The evening showcased the theme of the 55th season, Relevé, a French word that means to rise up, embodying the spirit of elevation and grace.

La Sylphide, one of oldest romantic ballets in the world, was first performed on March 12, 1832, it was created by famed Italian choreographer Filippo Taglioni who designed the work as a showcase for his daughter, the legendary Romantic ballerina Marie Taglioni.

La Sylphide was the first ballet to incorporate dancing en pointe because of its aesthetic rationale and was not merely an acrobatic stunt; it often involved ungraceful arm movements and exertions, which had been the norm for dancers in the late 1820s. Marie was also known for shortening her skirts in the performance of La Sylphide, which was meant to show off her excellent pointe work, but instead, caused a scandalous uproar from the audience at the time.

The story unfolds in Scotland, where James Ruben, a humble farmer, is enchanted by a forest fairy (otherwise known as a sylph). Despite being engaged to a woman named Effie, James is enthralled by the sylph’s otherworldly beauty.  Eventually, the sylph confesses her love for James, leading him to forsake Effie and follow the fairy into the forest. 

In the second act, a witch called Madge gives James a bewitched scarf. When James presents the scarf to the sylph, unexpected events spiral out of control, profoundly affecting everyone involved. As he navigates the fallout, Madge watches with a knowing gaze. James’s choices lead to a dramatic conclusion that will leave the audience contemplating the true consequences of his actions.

The ballet’s libretto was written by tenor Adolphe Nourrit, the first “Robert” in Meyerbeer’s Robert Le Diable, an opera which featured Marie Taglioni in its dance section Ballet of The Nunes.

The performance became seminal during the early 19th century, embodying the romantic era’s fascination with the supernatural and ethereal. This period also saw the introduction of the romantic tutu, a diaphanous, calf-length skirt that became iconic in ballet.

The gala saw an impressive turnout, with attendees stepping into the world of “Modern Romance” through their soft, fluid, and billowy attire. Including the Philippine Navy, Army, and Civil-Military Operations, who attended the performance as part of Ballet Philippines’ Men in Uniform project. This demonstrated the organization’s commitment to bringing the art of ballet to the men and women who protect and serve the country.

In addition, Ballet Philippines extended its reach through the Share the Magic project, which invited various groups to experience the beauty and the message of La Sylphide. Attendees included GMA’s non-profit organization, Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko, SOS Children’s Village Manila, Paranaque National High School, Kalayaan ( Freedom) Elementary School, Sisters of Mary, the Staff of Good Shepherd, Sculler Christian Academy, Philippine Cancer Society, and DepEd Navotas. This initiative allowed a broader audience to witness the artistry of ballet, further enriching the impact of this unforgettable production.

The performance of La Sylphide was met with rapturous applause. Many audience members commented on how evident it was that Ballet Philippines’ dancers had been working tirelessly to perfect their batterie, petit allegros, and impressive ballons. The dancers’ port de bras and epaulement stayed true to the romantic style, a callback to Marie Taglioni’s impressive style.

As Ballet Philippines President Kathleen Liechtenstein said in her speech before the show, “Every ticket you purchase supports the physical, financial, medical, and mental well-being of our dancers, allowing them to master the demanding techniques of productions like La Sylphide. Your support also enables us to stage exceptional performances, create new works, and reach out to inspire young minds across the country, enriching their lives with the art of ballet.”

The gala set a high note for what promises to be a remarkable season ahead, with Ballet Philippines continuing to bring the magic of dance to life. Ballet Philippines will enchant audiences with their Christmas production of Peter Pan, a delightful retelling of the beloved classic that will captivate both the young and the young at heart.  As they close the 55th season, Ang Panaginip ( The Dream), a full-length, original Filipiniana ballet, will make its world premiere in March 2025, promising to be a new classic that celebrates the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage. 

Stay tuned via BP’s website, www.ballet.ph, and social media accounts for these upcoming highlights as Ballet Philippines continues to inspire and delight with its artistry.