Part 2 of 3 stories written by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times, exploring the vision, artistry, and imagination behind Ballet Philippines’ upcoming production of Alice in Wonderland.
For Ballet Philippines’ Alice in Wonderland, Artistic Director Mikhail “Misha” Martynyuk brings to life a deeply personal and imaginative interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale. Guided by the music of Claude Debussy, Martynyuk transforms sound into motion, allowing the score’s mystery and poetry to shape both rhythm and movement. Each scene unfolds as its own miniature story, reflecting the individuality and inner worlds of its characters. Rather than simply retelling a familiar fantasy, Martynyuk’s choreography turns Alice in Wonderland into a living conversation between music, movement, and imagination.
As both choreographer and stage designer, Martynyuk redefines Wonderland as more than a physical place—it becomes a symbolic space within Alice’s mind, filled with thoughts, memories, and dreams. Through carefully conceived staging and atmosphere, the ballet explores the transition from innocence to self-awareness, where every whimsical encounter reflects Alice’s inner growth. Even the story’s famous transformations are reimagined, with emphasis placed not on literal effects but on emotional and symbolic expression.
At its heart, this production highlights Ballet Philippines’ commitment to creativity and excellence. Martynyuk’s approach combines the technical mastery of the dancers with a profound sense of storytelling, resulting in a performance that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant. Audiences can look forward to an original and thought-provoking experience that blends artistry, symbolism, and heartfelt expression. Alice in Wonderland runs from December 5 to 7 at The Theatre at Solaire. For more details, visit ballet.ph.
Read the full story by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times.