One vision lingers as we celebrate new beginnings—Jor-El Espina’s masterful costume designs for Ballet Philippines’ Ang Panaginip ( The Dream). More than just a career milestone, this striking union of fashion and movement is a profound homage to Filipino craftsmanship, cultural roots, and individuality becoming a spellbinding fusion of fashion and movement that isn’t just another milestone for the celebrated designer; it’s a poetic tribute to Filipino artistry, heritage, and self-expression.
A Designer’s Dream and a Nation’s Story
Jor-El Espina is no stranger to storytelling through fabric. Years ago, the Iloilo-born designer was once a dancer himself. While his path as a creative shifted towards a love for fashion and design, he was always entranced by how fabric and movement go together. For two decades, he spent redefining contemporary Filipiniana, weaving local textiles into fashion-forward pieces that effortlessly marry tradition and modernity.
This year, as he marks his 20th anniversary in the industry, he literally steps onto an even grander stage. Collaborating with Ballet Philippines, Espina brings his signature craftsmanship to Ang Panaginip, a ballet that dares to imagine a world where dreams have no limits. “I’ve always been drawn to the way movement and fabric interact,” Espina shares. “Ballet is a form of storytelling that transcends words, and fashion, when done right, has the power to do the same.”
Designing for Movement, Crafting for Legacy
Costume design for ballet is no small feat. Beyond aesthetics, the garments must allow fluidity, flexibility, and comfort, while still delivering an unforgettable visual impact under the stage lights. For Ang Panaginip, Espina meticulously studied the nuances of dance, considering every twirl, leap, and turn. His approach? A seamless blend of heritage weaves, contemporary silhouettes, and a dreamlike aesthetic that transports the audience to an enchanted realm.
“In ballet, the body tells the story,” he explains. “The challenge was ensuring that my designs wouldn’t just complement the dancers but become an extension of their performance.”
True to his roots, Espina turned to Philippine weaves such as hablon, piña, and abaca, working closely with artisans to ensure that every detail paid homage to the country’s rich textile tradition. “Many of the fabrics I used have been in my archive for years,” he reveals. “They hold stories of craftsmanship and resilience, making them perfect for a ballet that celebrates identity and self-discovery.” For the 17 princesses of Ang Panaginip, Espina crafted ensembles that radiate elegance and individuality, infusing theatrical elements while staying true to Filipiniana forms. Delicate beadwork, intricate embroidery, and layers of diaphanous fabric create an ethereal effect, transforming the dancers into visions of grace and power.
Beyond the Stage: Fashion Meets Function
Espina’s designs for Ang Panaginip aren’t just for the stage—they promise something even bigger. “This project has inspired me to explore a ready-to-wear collection that brings elements of the ballet into everyday fashion,” he hints. “Imagine theatrical drapery and rich textures, but wearable beyond the stage. It’s about bridging fantasy and reality.”
As he continues championing Filipino craftsmanship, Espina proves that fashion isn’t just about clothing—it’s about movement, culture, and storytelling. Whether through a runway show, a bespoke gown, or now, a breathtaking ballet, his designs remind us that true artistry is timeless, limitless, and always in motion.
Catch Ang Panaginip at The Theatre at Solaire on February 28, March 1, and March 2. Tickets are available via Ballet.ph and Ticketworld. Follow Jor-El Espina on Instagram @jorel_espinaph for more behind-the-scenes magic.
