Philippine Ballet Theatre: The Merry Widow

 The Philippine Ballet Theatre presents "The Merry Widow" 

for its first season production. 

A delightful tale brimming with tangled relationships,

 near misses, and jealous lovers. 

Originally premiered as an operetta by Franz Lehár in Vienna in 1905, "The Merry Widow" has inspired numerous choreographic adaptations by ballet companies around the world. 

Merry Widow is skillfully choreographed and presented by Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director, Ronilo Jaynario, in a way that is 

sure to resonate with the Filipino audience’s appreciation 

for passion and drama. 

Cast 

Jimmy Lumba 

as Count Danilo Danilovistch

Jessa Tangalin

 as Hanna Glawari

 Julafer Fegarido and Justine Joseph Orande 

as Count Camille de Rosillon

Sophia Martina Tiangco and Gabbie Jaynario

 as Valencienne

  Anatoly Panasyukov 

as Baron Mirko Zeta

 Joel Matias 

as Njegus

The dancers showcase their talents in classical ballet, character dance, mime, and theatrical acting. Franz Lehár’s exquisite melodies will transport audiences to a world of romance, wit, and opulence in "The Merry Widow," where every note celebrates love and elegance.

Homage to History

This ballet has been a true gem for the company. It’s inclusion in the season is an homage to its roots; unbeknownst to many, "The Merry Widow" was among the first ballets ever performed by the company.

 Former Artistic Director Julie Borromeo's version premiered in 1987, making waves and establishing PBT as a company with a sophisticated repertoire and innovative approach. 

It set the tone for what was to come. Almost four decades later,

the ballet remains a testament to the vision of the founders: a company capable of competing globally with both Filipino works and classical repertoire. With hopes high, this fifth restaging aims to reaffirm that legacy. As a company guided by an artistic council, 

continuing the tradition of rich taste, innovation, 

and undeniable skill is of utmost importance.

 Through this ballet, PBT wishes to honor PBT's founding members, expressing gratitude for setting the course toward the PBT of today,

the National Performing Arts Company for ballet

and contemporary dance. This production is lovingly

dedicated to the eleven founding members: 

Julie Borromeo, Felicitas Radaic, Steve Villaruz, Gener Caringal,

Eddie Elejar, Leonor-Orosa Goquinco, Vella Damian, Sony Lopez-Gonzales, the late Tony Fabella, the late Eric Cruz,

and the late Inday Gaston-Manosa.

Their pursuit of a fresh approach to ballet remains the guiding

 light for PBT. It's a fitting ballet to start the year right.

 PBT will have a special limited run 

at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre.

Show opens April 5, 2025, with a matinee at 3:00 PM 

Gala performance at 7:30 PM

It concludes on April 6 with a final matinee at 3:00 PM.

Joyously romantic, this enchanting production promises to sweep audiences off their feet.

Click HERE for tickets

For queries call 09688708887, 09129455151

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