American Ballet Theatre Performers Unite For a Worthy Cause

April 27, 2023

The American Ballet Theatre (ABT) leaves a legacy on the Philippine stage to provide quality education and a gift of music to underserved students

Many people see dance as an art form that expresses emotion, talent, and story all at once. While this is common knowledge for many, it is still a different experience when you are able to witness this art form on stage. Last April 20, the world-class festivities kicked off with a gala night at Samsung Performing Arts Theatre, which were followed by ABT’s first ever shows outside Metro Manila, specifically at Ayala Center Cebu and Ayala Malls Abreeza.

^{Knife’s Edge performed by Madison Brown, Kayke Carvalho, YeonSeo Choi, Kyra Coco, Takumi Miyake, Sylvie Squires, and Alejandro Valera Outlaw of ABT Studio Company}

This much-awaited return of American Ballet Theatre to the Philippine stage was in partnership with Ayala Foundation, wherein the collaboration was empowered because of both organizations’ sound mission of providing a haven where mentors can nurture young talents.

^{ABT JKOS Artistic Director Stella Abrera and ABT Studio Company Artistic Director Sascha Radetsky}

The entire production was a success due to the creative direction of ABT Studio Company Artistic Director Sascha Radetsky. American Ballet Theatre at Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School (ABT JKOS) Artistic Director Stella Abrera also shared her expertise through a masterclass in both Manila and Cebu. Meanwhile, Cecile Licad, the Philippines’ very own pianist joined the purposeful event, marking her first live performance since the pandemic. Hailed by The New Yorker as “a pianist’s pianist,” she has definitely proven her talent that is already recognized around the globe. With her on stage, the entire show radiated a more thrilling aura, leaving the audience in awe.

^{Concerto (Pas de Deux) performed by Kyra Coco and Finnian Carmeci of ABT Studio Company}

Indeed, the night to remember was no ordinary event as it aimed to nurture passionate talents and make ballet more accessible to the Filipino audience. From Ayala Mall’s participation for CENTEX students and the Bravo Filipino campaign to introducing 12 of their rising stars, ballet proves to be more than just an art form and a story. The exceptional ballet production can be defined as a portrait of unity for a worthy cause.

Photography JOJO MAMANGUN

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