Christmas fairytale ballet

On the first day of Christmas, Ballet Philippines gave to me our childhood dreams turned reality! For their holiday special, Ballet Philippines enchanted us through its latest performance called Christmas Fairytales, which kicked off last 15 December at the Theatre at Solaire.

The gala welcomed a sea of families, diplomatic corps members and art enthusiasts all stylishly groomed in their holiday formal. Before the show, we got the chance to enjoy the Ballet in Pinto exhibit at the lobby. It was a collaboration between the company and Pinto Art Museum for the benefit of both collaborators’ causes, and it featured over 30 artists and 60 works varying from paintings to sculptures and photographs. It was quite lovely and great way to get us all excited for the show!

Jemima Reyes
Ballet Phil. CEO and President, Maymay Liechtenstein and her children, Philippe and Lauren.
Irene and Caloy Montemayor
Jelly Fish Kisses
Len Olbes, Ambassador of Columbia, Marcela Ordonez n Alexander Moran and Ana de Ocampo
Lilibeth Campos and Marissa Fenton.
Mayenne Carmona and Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of Thailand
Mela Bengzon and Juan Carlo Calma
Philip and Gina Bartholome
USA Ambassador, MaryKay Carlson and Angola Consul Helen Ong.
Amanda Jacob and daughter Lillia
Ana Antonio and Happy Ongpauco Tiu
Atty. Lorna Kapunan and Jean Saburit
Chris Badiola, Nini Licaros, Evelyn Fraser and Gerard Ramirez
Elbert Cuenca and Liza Ilarde
Founder of Pinto Art Museum, Dr. Joven Cuanang
Bobby Alvarez, the columnist and Luis Espiritu


Finally, the clock hit 8 p.m., and we were transported into the world where happy endings are guaranteed. From Cinderella, Swan Lake to Nutcracker and Alibaba and the Thieves, we joined the show protagonist, Little Tala and Master of Time, on a magical journey through what was once the bedtime tales we found comfort in during our youth. It really took me back. The show ran for a limited time only until 17 December, but worry not! Ballet Philippines always has something new to amaze us with. Can’t wait for the next season’s shows!

Luckily, I’m not Cinderella — I have no curfew, so I was able to keep having a ball with friends at the Solaire Bar ’til the wee hours of the morning. Great way to get the festive feel going! Happy Holidays, everyone. Cheers!