In a recent A Beautiful Day Hangout interview on the Bilyonaryo News Channel, Ballet Philippines President Kathleen Lior-Liechtenstein, together with dancers Regina Magbitang and Carlo Padoga, offered an exciting glimpse into the company’s newest full-length holiday production, Alice in Wonderland.
The conversation shed light on Artistic Director Mikhail “Misha” Martynyuk’s innovative approach, revealing how his choreography combines whimsy, technical precision, and a renewed emotional core while honoring Lewis Carroll’s beloved classic. During the feature, Liechtenstein highlighted Ballet Philippines’ ongoing mission to push artistic boundaries while making ballet accessible to a wider audience.
Dancers Regina Magbitang and Carlo Padoga also made a special appearance, sharing insights into their roles as the Red Queen and the Mad Rabbit—two of Wonderland’s most iconic characters. Their behind-the-scenes stories added depth to the interview, giving viewers a closer look at the creative process and the unique personalities they bring to the stage.
Described as a holiday escape crafted with heart, humor, and pure imagination, Alice in Wonderland promises a visually rich experience filled with bold storytelling and unforgettable characters. With its fusion of classical technique, expressive mime, and theatrical flair, the production aims to enchant audiences of all ages.
Ballet Philippines’ Alice in Wonderland will be performed live at The Theatre at Solaire on December 5, 6, and 7, 2025.
Save your seats in Wonderland through Ticketworld.
Ballet Philippines unwraps the magic of the season with a visually spectacular and emotionally captivating new full-length production that blends technical rigor and comedic pantomime in a reimagined Alice in Wonderland.
Ballet Philippines officially unveiled its highly anticipated holiday production, Alice in Wonderland, during a media launch held on November 7 at the Oasis Garden Café in Solaire Resort Entertainment City. The event was hosted by Rhea Bautista and featured welcome remarks from Ballet Philippines Artistic Director, Mikhail Martynyuk, who shared his vision for bringing Lewis Carroll’s beloved story to life through the language of dance. Guests were treated to a special excerpt performance from Alice in Wonderland, offering an enchanting preview of the whimsy, wonder, and artistry audiences can expect from this year’s Christmas full-length ballet.
Rhea Bautista hosts the media launch of BP’s 56th Season Christmas Full-Length Ballet, Alice In Wonderland
Ballet Philippines now invites audiences to step into a world where imagination knows no limits as it presents a spectacular new production of Alice in Wonderland, part of the company’s acclaimed 56th Season. Choreographed by Artistic Director Mikhail Martynyuk, this completely original adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s beloved story blends breathtaking choreography with playful theatricality, reintroducing a timeless tale through the transformative language of dance.
BP’s Artistic Director Mikhail Martynyuk, welcomes media guests for the press launch of Alice In Wonderland
In Martynyuk’s reimagining of the classic, audiences are swept into a dreamlike realm where logic bends and wonder takes center stage. The story follows Alice, a curious young girl who, upon chasing a mysterious White Rabbit, finds herself tumbling into the whimsical world of Wonderland. As she journeys deeper into this extraordinary place, she passes through magical doors, samples enchanted potions and cakes, and encounters gardens of talking flowers that challenge her wit and resolve.
Each chapter of Alice’s adventure is brought vividly to life through Martynyuk’s inventive choreography and storytelling. A delightfully chaotic tea party hosted by the Mad Hatter, March Hare, and Dormouse is filled with riddles and whimsy, while the enigmatic Caterpillar helps Alice uncover the courage within her. But the stakes rise dramatically in the Queen of Hearts’ unpredictable court, where flamingos and hedgehogs become croquet mallets, tempers flare, and justice is anything but just. Accused alongside the Knave of Hearts, Alice ultimately defies the chaos, boldly crying “Stop!”—an act that breaks the dream’s spell and returns her to reality.
An excerpt from Alice in Wonderland gave guests a delightful preview of Ballet Philippines’ Christmas full-length ballet at Oasis Garden Cafe in Solaire
What distinguishes this Alice in Wonderland is Martynyuk’s artistic vision, which combines technically challenging choreography for the dancers with elements of plastic comedy pantomime to heighten the production’s theatrical energy. This innovative approach creates a ballet that is as visually captivating as it is emotionally engaging—an immersive, family-friendly experience designed to enchant audiences of all ages.
“As we continue to evolve Ballet Philippines’ artistic journey, Alice in Wonderland represents our ongoing mission to celebrate imagination, courage, and the joy of discovery,” shares Kathleen Liechtenstein, President of Ballet Philippines. “It also reflects our deeper purpose—to bring Filipino talent and artistry to the forefront of the global stage, showcasing how collaboration between world-class artists like Mikhail Martynyuk and our homegrown dancers creates a uniquely inspiring expression of creativity and excellence.”
For Mikhail Martynyuk, Alice in Wonderland is more than a reinterpretation of a classic—it is an exploration of the limitless creativity that defines ballet. “In Alice, I wanted to create a world where movement tells the story beyond words,” Martynyuk explains. “Through choreography, mime, and expression, we invite audiences to feel the humor, absurdity, and heart that make Wonderland so unforgettable.”
As the dream fades and Alice awakens beside her sister, she emerges forever changed by the journey—a reminder of the courage found in staying true to oneself and the limitless power of imagination.
Alice in Wonderland is one of the most anticipated productions of Ballet Philippines’ 56th Season, a year-long celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the enduring magic of dance.
Follow the White Rabbit and step into a world where dreams dance, time twists, and imagination knows no bounds.
Alice in Wonderland runs for only five performances from December 5 to 7, 2025 at the Theatre at Solaire:
December 5 (Gala Performance) – 8:00 PM
December 6 – 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
December 7 – 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Seats are limited—secure your tickets now at TicketWorld and be part of this unforgettable holiday journey through Wonderland.
For media inquiries, please contact Rosary Ysmael at 0917 724 1007.
Part 3 of 3 stories written by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times, highlighting the artistry, strength, and inspiring journey of Ballet Philippines’ lead dancer in Alice in Wonderland.
As Ballet Philippines prepares to unveil Alice in Wonderland this December, principal dancer Jemima Reyes steps into the spotlight as Alice — a role that mirrors her own journey of curiosity, courage, and self-discovery. A graduate of the Philippine High School for the Arts and De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, Jemima’s path from scholar to company apprentice and now principal dancer reflects years of discipline, artistry, and unwavering passion. Her performances in Don Quixote, Romeo and Juliet, Swan Lake, La Sylphide, and Peter Pan have cemented her reputation as one of the company’s most compelling artists.
BP’s principal dancer, Jemima Reyes stars as Alice in Alice In Wonderland
In Alice in Wonderland, Jemima channels both technical excellence and emotional depth, bringing to life a character who embodies wonder, growth, and resilience. She sees each performance as a continuation of her artistic evolution — an opportunity to merge skill with sincerity and connect authentically with audiences. Beyond the stage, Jemima embraces new dimensions of her life, balancing her dedication to ballet with the joy of newly married life and dreams of motherhood. Her story is a testament to the modern Filipino artist — strong, graceful, and ever-evolving, finding harmony between art and life.
Audiences can witness Jemima Reyes’ radiant portrayal of Alice in Ballet Philippines’ Alice in Wonderland, running from December 5 to 7 at The Theatre at Solaire. For tickets and more details, visitballet.ph.
Read the full story by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times.
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.
BP’s Artistic Director Mikhail “Misha” Martynyuk
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, visitballet.ph.
Read the full story by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times.
A celebration of Ballet Philippines’ 56th season through the enchanting world of Alice in Wonderland—Part 1 of 3 stories written by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times.
As part of Ballet Philippines’ (BP) 56th season this December, the company proudly presents Alice in Wonderland, choreographed by BP Artistic Director Mikhail “Misha” Martynyuk. This latest production is an imaginative adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s beloved story, reinterpreted through the distinct artistry and technical excellence of Ballet Philippines. The ballet promises to capture the whimsy and wonder of Alice’s adventures while reflecting the company’s signature blend of classical precision and contemporary flair.
Ballet Philippines’ President & CEO Kathleen Liechtenstein
In this first installment of a three-part feature on Alice in Wonderland by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times, BP President Kathleen Liechtenstein shares insights on what makes this production truly special. She highlights how choreography, costume, and set design come together to create a fresh and captivating experience. Each new season provides BP dancers with the opportunity to push their boundaries, refine their technique, and display their growth as world-class artists. The production emphasizes both technical mastery and heartfelt performance—qualities that define Ballet Philippines’ enduring excellence.
Beyond its visual splendor, Alice in Wonderland represents BP’s continuing commitment to meaningful artistry. Rather than relying on spectacle alone, the company seeks to create performances that connect deeply with audiences, evoking joy, reflection, and a renewed appreciation for the art of dance. Through this production, Ballet Philippines reaffirms its vision of presenting works that inspire and elevate the spirit while celebrating Filipino talent at its finest.
Catch Ballet Philippines’ Alice in Wonderland at The Theatre at Solaire on December 5 to 7. For tickets, call +63 930 318 5721 or visitballet.ph. Read the full story by Irene de Jesus Obligacion for The Manila Times.
Ballet Philippines brought the joy of dance to more than 1,000 students at La Union National High School through its outreach and community program. From learning the five basic ballet positions to experiencing a live performance, students discovered how art can inspire, uplift, and spark dreams.
Ballet Philippines (BP) recently brought the power of dance to La Union National High School (LUNHS), where more than 1,000 students experienced their first-ever ballet class and enjoyed a professional performance by the country’s flagship dance company.
This community outreach program is part of BP’s continuing mission to extend the reach of the arts beyond the metro, creating opportunities to educate, inspire, and nurture future generations of Filipino artists.
The ballet class introduced students to the five basic ballet positions—foundational movements that offered them a glimpse into the discipline and beauty of the art form. For many of the young participants, it was their very first encounter with ballet.
The session was not just about movement; it was about opening doors to creativity, sparking imagination, and showing how dance can be a source of strength and self-expression.
The visit was especially meaningful for LUNHS, a school still recovering from the devastation of recent typhoons. Classrooms had been flooded, walls sustained water damage, and one building was left without a roof. Against this backdrop of hardship, Ballet Philippines’ presence provided a moment of joy and renewal—reminding the community of the resilience and hope that the arts can inspire, even in the most difficult of times.
“Ballet has the power to uplift and to inspire,” said Kathleen Liechtenstein, President of Ballet Philippines. “Through our outreach and community programs, we want to ensure that every Filipino child, regardless of where they live, has the chance to experience the beauty and discipline of dance. This is our way of giving back, of planting seeds of inspiration that we hope will grow into a lifelong appreciation for the arts.”
With initiatives like these, Ballet Philippines continues to affirm its role as a cultural pillar of the nation—bringing world-class artistry to every corner of the Philippines and ensuring that the gift of dance remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.
This journey was made possible through the steadfast support of Victory Liner, whose partnership ensured that the company could reach the community safe and sound, and share the gift of the dance. Their commitment to connecting people extends beyond transportation — it helps bring hope and inspiration to future generations.
BP, REP, and MSO join forces for the first time, blending storytelling, choreography, and live orchestral music in a single evening.
Daily Tribune writes about Three Masters, One Stage — a gala evening of art, music, and movement uniting Ballet Philippines (BP), Repertory Philippines (REP), and the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) for an all-ages showcase.
The program opened with REP’s Peter and the Wolf, directed by Jeremy Domingo and choreographed by PJ Rebullida, with narration by 2021 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Maria Ressa. MSO, under Maestro Marlon Chen and executive director Jeffrey Solares, provided the symphonic foundation.
REP president Mindy Perez-Rubio traced the concept back to her time with the San Francisco Symphony League, where she envisioned merging live theater and orchestral music to inspire young audiences. That vision came to life through BP and MSO’s enthusiastic collaboration.
MSO chair Maan Hontiveros called the night a celebration of creative synergy—the first time the three institutions shared a stage—underscoring orchestral music’s power to enrich ballet and theater.
Closing the evening, BP’s Little Red Riding Hood, choreographed by Mikhail Martynyuk, charmed audiences with its playful grace.
BP president Kathleen Liechtenstein introduced the season theme, Our Stage, The World, honoring artistic legacy, global vision, and community engagement, while celebrating the shared history of these three cultural pillars spanning over two centuries.
Read the full story by Luis Espiritu for Daily Tribunehere.
Tatler Philippines reports that, for the first time in Philippine performing arts history, three of the country’s premier cultural institutions united to present music, drama, and ballet on one stage in a world-class, family-friendly production.
From August 1 to 3 at The Theatre at Solaire, Ballet Philippines, together with Repertory Philippines and Manila Symphony Orchestra, staged two beloved classics—Peter and the Wolf and the full-length ballet Little Red Riding Hood.
The event was more than an artistic milestone; it was also a significant community outreach effort. As part of the program, complimentary seats were offered to families from selected barangays, ensuring that underserved communities could experience the transformative power of live performance.
Visit Tatler Philippines’ Instagram to view the post here.
Lifestyle Asia reports that, for the first time in Philippine performing arts history, three of the country’s premier cultural institutions—Ballet Philippines, Repertory Philippines, and the Manila Symphony Orchestra—shared the stage in a landmark collaboration. Together, their combined artistic legacies span an impressive 213 years.
Held on August 1 at The Theatre at Solaire, the Gala Performance marked the opening of Ballet Philippines’ 56th Season. The evening featured Peter and the Wolf, headlined by 2021 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Maria Ressa as guest narrator. Prokofiev’s symphonic tale came to life through MSO’s live orchestral performance and theatrical storytelling.
But the celebration went beyond artistry. In line with Ballet Philippines’ advocacy for cultural accessibility, more than 1,000 free seats were reserved for underserved barangays, military personnel, indigenous communities, and other partner groups. The Manila Symphony Orchestra also welcomed music and non-music students—many experiencing live symphonic music for the first time.
The double bill continued with Ballet Philippines’ Little Red Riding Hood, a classical yet emotionally resonant adaptation of the beloved fable, performed with expressive choreography and rich orchestration.
Branded Three Masters, One Stage, the event not only united three artistic disciplines—ballet, theater, and music—but also showcased the transformative power of collaboration. It was an evening that entertained, educated, and brought together a diverse audience, proving that the arts can bridge communities and generations.
Theater Fans Manila reviews how Repertory Philippines, the Manila Symphony Orchestra, and Ballet Philippines interpreted Peter and the Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood into a fusion of music, dance, and theater.
In its review, Theater Fans Manila notes that for the first time in the country, Peter and the Wolf stepped beyond music to become a fully realized spectacle of theater, dance, and storytelling. Repertory Philippines (REP), the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), and Ballet Philippines (BP) united for Three Masters, One Stage—a landmark collaboration aimed at captivating young audiences with the magic of the performing arts.
The program featured a dance-theater interpretation of Peter and the Wolf alongside BP’s premiere of Little Red Riding Hood. Both beloved tales share a central theme: a child’s innocence confronted by the cunning of the wild, with adults stepping in to protect and guide.
Read the full review by Marge Enriquez for Theater Fans Manila here.
