FROM A dance that empowers women to a metaphor on the fluidity of gender and to that defining moment when we finally meet our significant other, the repertoire of Ballet Philippines’ Ang Pilya atbp. feat. the Young Choreographers Showcase, highlights not only the power of narration and dance, but also the talents of young choreographers and dancers in the country.
The performances will be held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines on June 9 and 10.
The two-day show culminates Ballet Philippines’ 49th annual summer dance workshop while signaling the opening of the company’s 49th season.
One of the highlights of the show is the showcase of skills of Ballet Philippines’ upcoming choreographers.
In this section, seven dances will be performed for the first time on stage. They are: “Magdalena” by Bonifacio Guerrero Jr.; “Danse Macabre” by Danilo Dayo; “The Weight on Our Toes” by Erl Sorilla; “Sun Down” by Gia Gequinto; “Psst…!!!” by John Ababon; “That Moment” by Monica Gana; and, “MA” by Ronelson Yadao.
“For this summer’s dance studies, I did challenge the young choreographers to work with classical music so they would work with the natural musical forms and patterns inherent in classical music composition. And they did,” said Alice Reyes, National Artist for Dance and Ballet Philippines founder, in an e-mail interview with BusinessWorld on June 2.
The company worked with musical director Jed Balsamo, who helped each young choreographer with their musical choices.
“I also wanted their dances accompanied by live chamber music, if we could go for that. And we are able to! So for this young choreographers’ showcase, we are delighted to have the new dance compositions accompanied on stage by solo piano, and string quintet, and voice,” said Ms. Reyes. “It is amazing what the young choreographers came up with in the variety of themes and stylistic approach seen in their choreographic works — definitely a highlight of this year’s summer workshop.”
CLASSIC OPENING
Opening the show is a performance of the classic “Ang Pilya” by the BP Dance School. A Filipino adaptation of La Fille Mal Gardee, Ang Pilya tells the story of Mama Simeona who has plans on marrying her daughter, Lisa, off to Alan, the son of Don Tomas, a wealthy landowner. But Lisa likes another fellow, Kulas. With the help of their friends — and a sudden storm — the lovers try to get their own happy ending.
“Ang Pilya” will be followed by the seven pieces that make up the “atbp.” section of the show.
The lineup include: “Tayo’y mga Pinoy,” choreographed by Jomatt Quiambao, and set to the music of Heber Bartolome; “Meron Akong Ano!,” choreographed by Jomatt Quiambao, and set to the music of Francis Magalona; “Papicture ako Nimu, Gwapo” choreographed by Gia Gequinto, and set to the music of Maureen Salvaleon, Vispop; “Dayang Dayang — Narigat Ti Napili,” choreographed by Erl Sorilla, and set to the music of the Bukros Singers, Melo Santiago; “Pagbati,” choreographed by Lester Reguindin, and set to the music of Makiling & Diwa de Leon; “Pagsubok,” choreographed by Annette Mariano Cruz, and set to the music of Sebastian; and, “Limang Dipang Tao,” choreographed by Edz Bordamonte, and set to the music of Ryan Cayabyab. — Nickky Faustine P. de Guzman
* To watch High Life’s interview with National Artist for Dance and Ballet Philippines founder Alice Reyes, and excerpts of the Young Choreographer’s dances, visit this link.

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