“All you need is faith, trust, and a little bit of pixie dust!”
Following their haunting season opener, “La Sylphide,” Ballet Philippines is now bringing magic and adventure to the theater stage with an all-new iteration of the beloved tale of “Peter Pan,” just in time for the holiday season.
The tale revolves around Peter Pan, a mischievous, never-growing-up boy who whisks young girl Wendy and her brothers on a magical journey to Neverland, where imaginary creatures live.
Prior to gracing the stage, Ballet Philippines offered The Beat Manila and the press a peek into what the audiences will look forward to through an exclusive preview event. Ballet Philippines Dance School Director and renowned dancer Rhea Bautista offered a storytelling of the classic tale, complemented by ballet performances courtesy of the company’s dancers.
We probably all knew “Peter Pan” from its Disney adaptation, but Ballet Philippines’ President and CEO Kathleen Liechtenstein said that the upcoming iteration will be nothing like done before — even different from the company’s previous staging of the tale back in 2015.
“The libretto, the key music, the costume, the choreography, the detailing, the set — it’s totally new. That’s thanks to Misha, our artistic director and choreographer,” Liechtenstein told the media.
On what makes the upcoming “Peter Pan” different based on emotional appeal, Liechtenstein explained, “For one, there’s an element of family closeness — that's very Filipino. [There’s also] the positivity of the story to relate to the celebration of Christmas, because this is the time that the family must come together and celebrate the joy and happiness of Christmas.”
Ballet Philippines’ Artistic Director Mikhail ‘Misha’ Martynyuk added that all three show dates will feature different casts, so each show will offer a fresh take on the story, “[There will be] different casts for all [three] days. That’s what makes it more difficult.”
Speaking about his creative process for this all-new version of “Peter Pan,” Mikhail said in a separate press release, “I specifically didn't look at Peter Pan from another company or past productions. So I have nothing to compare with my version. For this, I read the book, studied places, and details. Then I made a draft. After that, I read the book again to look from another angle and to find deeper details. What was the result? We'll see in December!”
Aside from spectacular ballet performances, the company assured that the audiences can likewise expect beautifully crafted costumes that will immerse them in the whimsical world of Neverland, made by emerging designer Eleanora Martynyuk.
“My inspiration in this production is three components: history, music, and choreographic line,” said Eleanora.
On how she made the costumes to fit the needs of this classic form of ballet, she explained, “Wendy's dress needs to have smooth lines and be fitted at the waist to ensure it doesn’t interfere with her partner during the complex dance elements. Captain Hook is another unique character; he embodies duality, which is reflected in his costume — some elements are elegant, while others are distinctly pirate-like. As a gentleman with a good education, there is a darker side to his character. Thus, we design his suit to highlight the contrasting features of his personality.”
Wrapping up the preview, Liechtenstein further teased, “When you watch Ballet Philippines, expect a classic definition of what ballet is — the classic discipline of ballet on stage. And we’re going to give that to you. No shortcuts."
“Peter Pan” is the production’s second show for its 55th season under the theme “RELEVÉ.” In line with the theme, the show celebrates “the spirit of rising above challenges, the power of imagination, and believing in the impossible.”
Ballet Philippines’ “Peter Pan” will run from Dec. 6 to 8, 2024 at The Theater at Solaire. To purchase your tickets, go to TicketWorld’s website, contact them at 0906 372 3393, or visit Solaire Box Office Level 2 from 11 AM to 8 PM.
Don’t miss this chance to embark on a one-of-a-kind journey to Neverland!
Follow Ballet Philippines on Instagram for more updates.
