Through a blend of classical ballet, regional dances, and mythology, Philippine Ballet Theatre will present the rich ethnic grandeur and diversity of the Philippines with the kind support of Philippine Airlines and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
The Philippine Ballet Theatre wants to tell the enthralling story of the bird Sarimanok, which is part of the mythology of the Filipino Mindanao people. This legendary animal, renowned for its vivid plumage and alluring aura, takes the lead in a ballet that defies cultural and temporal boundaries. The ballet centers on the magnificent Sarimanok and narrates the tale of a mortal and a moon goddess falling in love.
Sarimanok symbolizes hope and abundant blessings, and Philippine Ballet Theatre sees the ballet as a divine gift. Through this performance, they aim to generate interest in our cultural heritage and showcase the talent of our current artists. Sarimanok is the artistic vision of Ronilo Jaynario, the Artistic Director and Resident Choreographer, set to the original music composed by Paulo Zarate, a highly acclaimed composer. Jaynario and Zarate aspire for ballet, like Sarimanok, to become a symbol of hope and an investment in the Filipino people.
Jaynario explained, “Ibalon made a powerful impact on both the audience and the performers. It received excellent reviews and accolades that any dance company would aspire to have. Therefore, our challenge is achieving the same impact level as Sarimanok. Creating such an impact is vital to us as a company”
Inspiration for the ballet comes from the story itself, the dancers’ response to my movement that enhances the process, and the music that moves me in creating the choreography. I am incredibly grateful that Paulo Zarate is composing for PBT’s Sarimanok.”
Jessa Tangalin and Gladys Baybayin will share the role of the mythical Sarimanok. Alternating as the romantic couple of Indarapatra and Moon Goddess will be Matthew Davo and Gabrielle Jaynario and Jimmy Lumba and Joni Galeste.
Sarimanok is PBT’s second full-length Filipino ballet in a row, and the company wants to make a statement about how committed they are to using their art to impact the country.
Sarimanok will have a performance on July 6 and 7 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. Reservations for tickets can be made directly with Philippine Ballet Theatre by emailing [email protected] or by texting 09688708887. Tickets can also be bought through Ticketworld.
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