Since 1904, JM Barrie’s Peter Pan has captivated children worldwide through movies and theatre with the Disney film being a timeless adaptation that everyone knows and refers to. But a few weeks ago, Ballet Philippines brought the boy who never grew up, his rag-tag crew of lost boys and the Darling Children on stage at the Solaire Theater for a delightful performance that enthralled children and adults alike.
Rooted in the values of kinship and the youthful spirit of adventure, the performance celebrated hallmark traits of the Philippines. It reminded viewers of the timeless joy found in stories shared across generations, reflecting a culture where family and community remain central while infusing the classic story with Filipino flair, wit, and timeless themes that resonated deeply with its viewers.
For decades, Ballet Philippines has delighted audiences with meaningful Christmas performances. In 2022, the company transported viewers to a winter wonderland with The Nutcracker. The previous years, it brought beloved tales such as Ali Baba, Cinderella, and Princess Aurora to life in Christmas Fairytales.
According to Mikhail ‘Misha’ Martynyuk, the artistic director of Ballet Philippines, he didn’t refer to previous productions. ” I had nothing to compare with my version, instead I read the book, studied places and the details then made a draft.”
After deep-diving into research about the world of the Darlings and Neverland, Martynyuk’s version included various scenes that weren’t always included in previous productions, which made the overall result exciting for its audiences. I
The production also featured the artistic touch of Eleanora Martynyuk, who helmed costume design. She paid meticulous attention to detail, crafting costumes that reflected each character’s personality. For example, Captain Hook’s costume embodied duality, blending elegance with distinct pirate-like elements. “Some parts of Captain Hook’s costume are elegant, while others highlight his dark intentions,” Eleanora explained. Her design drew inspiration from history, music, and choreographic lines.
Peter Pan by Ballet Philippines was staged from December 6 to 8, 2024, at The Theatre at Solaire in Pasay City, offering an unforgettable journey to heal the inner child in everyone.
