Author: Ballet Philippines

From all of us at Ballet Philippines, we celebrate the courage, artistry, and freedom that make us proud to be Filipino.

Happy Philippine Independence Day!

#BP56 #IndependenceDay2025

 The feature showcases how Filipino identity shines on the global stage as Ballet Philippines and Carlo Calma unite dance, architecture, and indigenous weaving at the Philippine Pavilion in Osaka.

Entitled “Cultural Narratives Intertwined,” Daily Tribune’s article says that Filipino identity takes the spotlight at Expo 2025 Osaka, where heritage, innovation, and artistry converge. In its 56th season, Ballet Philippines (BP) presents a groundbreaking collaboration with visionary artist Carlo Calma at the Philippine Pavilion—an immersive space that unites dance, architecture, and indigenous craftsmanship.

The story also shares that the pavilion, designed by Calma brings together the largest collaboration of Filipino community weavers ever assembled for a single project. Featuring over 1,000 handwoven rattan elements and more than 200 indigenous textiles, the structure pays homage to traditional craftsmanship while reimagining it for the future. Its flowing, organic form, inspired by the act of weaving, embodies the Expo’s theme: “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”

Furthermore, the article says that within this setting, Ballet Philippines performs two original works—Weaving Looms and Threads—choreographed to echo the movement and spirit of the pavilion. Performed daily at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. through June 15, the pieces reflect themes of resilience, transformation, and unity, offering audiences a deeply moving portrayal of cultural continuity.

Commissioned by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, Ballet Philippines returns for a second performance series in October. The Philippine Pavilion stands as a powerful cultural statement—where nature, culture, and community are woven together for a better, more inclusive future. Read the full story by Luis Espiritu here.

The feature reports on the Philippines’ historic debut at Expo 2025 Osaka, where Ballet Philippines transforms architecture into a living stage at the Philippine Pavilion.

In a feature story titled “PH Breaks New Ground at Expo 2025 with First Live Performance Facade,” ABS-CBN reports that the Philippines is making history at Expo 2025 Osaka with the debut of a world-first live performance façade, brought to life by the internationally renowned Ballet Philippines.

According to the article by Iya Lorainne Baring, the Philippine Pavilion transforms architecture into a dynamic stage through daily performances titled Weaving Looms and Threads, running until June 15. Staged within and behind the Pavilion’s intricately handwoven rattan façade, the performances offer a multisensory experience, where dance, design, and heritage intersect.

The facade—designed by architect Carlo Calma—is inspired by the traditional Filipino act of weaving. With over 1,000 handwoven rattan elements and 200 indigenous textiles, the structure serves as both a cultural monument and an evolving canvas for movement and storytelling.

ABS-CBN notes that the performances are held twice daily at 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM, offering Expo visitors a rare opportunity to witness a groundbreaking collaboration where the building itself becomes the stage and the dancers bring Filipino identity to life. Read the full story by Iya Lorainne Baring here.

An intimate dinner at the Philippine Pavilion celebrates cultural diplomacy during the Osaka International Expo 2025 performances.

Ballet Philippines President Kathleen “Maymay” Liechtenstein, together with the company’s dancers, hosted an intimate dinner at the Philippine Pavilion in Osaka to honor Philippine Consul General Voltaire D. Mauricio.

The event coincided with Ballet Philippines’ ongoing performances in Japan as part of the Osaka International Expo 2025, held in partnership with Philippine Airlines and the Philippine Tourism Board.

Also in attendance were Mrs. Maribel Calma and Ballet Philippines Communications Head Ping Valencia, as seen in the photo.

To the queen of our hearts, today and always. Like a true ballerina, you move through life with grace, strength, and poise. You make even the most demanding roles look effortless. Happy Mother’s Day to the amazing women who inspire us every day. 

Meet Ana, an OFW nurse whose story we brought to life through dance in Limang Daan. Her grace and resilience mirror the spirit of ballet itself. Mabuhay ang manggagawang Pilipino!

Today, April 9th, we honor the courage and sacrifice of the brave men and women who stood their ground in Bataan during World War II. Their unwavering spirit, forged in the crucible of war, serves as a lasting reminder of the price of freedom and the resilience of the Filipino people.

At Ballet Philippines, we pay tribute to their heroism not only through remembrance but through action—by sharing the transformative power of dance, art, and culture with our modern-day heroes. Through our Men in Uniform program, we open the doors of the theater to members of the Armed Forces, inviting them into a world where movement speaks the language of history, hope, and healing.

Each performance becomes more than a show; it becomes a living celebration of the very freedom our soldiers fought to protect. It is in these moments—when curtains rise and stories unfold—that we remember not only the past but also reaffirm our commitment to honor those who serve today.

This ongoing tribute was beautifully reflected during the gala night of Christmas Fairytales, where Ballet Philippines President Kathleen Liechtenstein welcomed guests from the Philippine Air Force. Their presence served as a powerful reminder that the strength of a nation lies not only in its defense, but in the unity of its people through shared culture and expression.

Through dance, we honor our heroes—past and present—and ensure that their legacy lives on in every step, every story, and every stage.

A SEASON OF GLOBAL IMPACT

This year, Ballet Philippines steps onto some of the most prestigious stages worldwide, amplifying the voice of Filipino artistry like never before: 

World Expo Osaka 2025: Proudly performing at the Philippine Pavilion for six months, showcasing the brilliance of Filipino dance to the world by showcasing DIYOSA, an enchanting fusion of mythology, sustainability, and imagination.

Ballet Philippines Wows Greece: Celebrating two extraordinary cultures through grace and storytelling, where we will premiere LIMANG DAAN, a tribute to the 75th anniversary of Philippine-Greek relations. 

Ballet Philippines Goes to Europe: Captivating audiences in Budapest, Prague, Slovakia, and Bratislava, bridging nations through dance, a rare opportunity to share the soul of Filipino dance with audiences across the world.

Wherever we go, we carry the spirit of the Philippines with us. At home and across continents, we are breaking new ground, inspiring generations, and redefining the future of dance.

A SEASON OF BOUNDLESS BALLET

Ballet Philippines’ new season redefines storytelling through movement—where timeless fables, rich heritage, and fearless creativity collide. From enchanted forests to surreal dreamscapes to the resilient spirit of an island people, each performance is a world waiting to unfold. Experience the thrill of Peter & the Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood, where shadows and innocence cross paths in a spellbinding fusion of dance, theater, and live orchestration. Step into the topsy-turvy brilliance of Alice in Wonderland, where Ballet Philippines brings its own magical interpretation of the beloved classic to life through whimsical choreography, surreal visuals, and enchanting storytelling. Witness Ivatan, a groundbreaking tribute to the strength and soul of the Ivatan people, set against the breathtaking landscapes of Batanes.

With bold choreography, powerful storytelling, and an unrelenting spirit of innovation, Ballet Philippines invites you to a season like no other. This is movement. This is culture. This is ballet without limits. 

PETER & THE WOLF AND THE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 

For the first time in Philippine stage history, Ballet Philippines, Repertory Philippines, and the Manila Symphony Orchestra unite to bring two beloved childhood tales to life. Deep in an enchanted forest, innocence meets danger in a breathtaking fusion of dance, music, and theater. This bold retelling reimagines classic storytelling with thrilling new dimensions. 

ALICE IN WONDERLAND 

Fall down the rabbit hole and into Ballet Philippines’ enchanting original holiday treat—a magical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale. Set in a whimsical world where logic bends and imagination takes center stage, this festive production comes to life with playful choreography, surreal sets, and a captivating score. A spellbinding journey for audiences of all ages, Alice in Wonderland is the perfect holiday escape into wonder and delight. 

IVATAN 

A first-of-its-kind ballet inspired by the Ivatan people, this production honors a culture built on strength, resilience, and deep harmony with nature. Set against the wind-swept landscapes of Batanes, Ivatan is a powerful tribute—a love letter to a people who have weathered the storms of time with unwavering grace.

As we step into our 56th Season, OUR STAGE, THE WORLD, defines our vision. Every performance is a tribute to the limitless spirit of Filipino artistry, carried onto global stages with pride. This is not just a season—it is a shared purpose that unites us all.

Ballet Philippines recently performed at a special celebration of Greek National Day, hosted by Greek Ambassador Ioannis Pediotis and Mrs. Aliki Pappá. The event marked 75 years of diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Greece, highlighting their enduring friendship through the universal language of dance. The company presented an excerpt from “Ang Panaginip,” choreographed by Artistic Director Mikhail Martynyuk, a piece that embodies dreams and self-expression—serving as a tribute to both nations’ artistic heritage.

Beyond showcasing Filipino talent, the performance carried deep diplomatic significance, reinforcing the role of the arts in fostering cross-cultural connections. “Dance transcends language and speaks directly to the heart,” said Ballet Philippines President Kathleen Liechtenstein, emphasizing its power to unite people. She expressed hope that this event would inspire future collaborations between Filipino and Greek artists. More than just a performance, Ballet Philippines’ participation was a testament to how culture can bridge nations, celebrating shared traditions and strengthening international bonds.