In our commitment to expand access to ballet across the Philippines and to the world, we are excited to present a range of enriching content online. From exercise tutorials to lectures, masterclasses, and past performances, our series of online offerings aims to share the artistry of Ballet Philippines directly with you, wherever you may be.
Our goal is to make ballet accessible to more people, anytime and anywhere.
COMING SOON!
La Sylphide stands as one of the oldest surviving romantic ballets in history. Originally choreographed by Filippo Taglioni, with a libretto by Adolphe Nourrit and music by Jean-Madeleine Schneitzhoeffer, LA SYLPHIDE premiered in Paris in 1832. Created to showcase the extraordinary talent of Taglioni’s daughter, the legendary ballerina Marie Taglioni, the ballet revolutionized the art form by being the first to be performed entirely en pointe.
During the Romantic Movement of the early 19th century, La Sylphide became a seminal work, embodying the era’s fascination with the supernatural and ethereal. This period also saw the introduction of the romantic tutu, a diaphanous, calf-length skirt that became iconic in ballet.
SYNOPSIS
The story unfolds in Scotland, where James Ruben, a humble farmer, is enchanted by a forest fairy (otherwise known as a sylph). Despite being engaged to Effie, James is enthralled by the sylph’s otherworldly beauty. The sylph confesses her love for James, leading him to forsake Effie and follow the fairy into the forest.
In the second act, a witch called Madge gives James a cursed scarf. When James presents the scarf to the sylph, unexpected events spiral out of control, profoundly affecting everyone involved. As he navigates the fallout, enigmatic Madge watches with a knowing gaze. James’s choices lead to a dramatic conclusion that will leave the audience contemplating the true consequences of this enchantment.
Ballet Philippines’ rendition of La Sylphide intertwines the ballet’s original charm with Filipino romanticism and mysticism. The sylph, symbolizing ethereal beauty and yearning, resonates with the Filipino spirit’s quest for ideals, blending enchantment with everyday life. This adaptation invites audiences on a mesmerizing journey where passion and magic are seamlessly woven into the familiar rhythms of Filipino culture, creating an immersive experience that stirs the soul.
