Ahhhhhhh! World Stars of Ballet!

There are things that you see that leave you speechless!!! I guess that stands true for this post. Its been months but I seem to still cannot string the words that describe how I feel about World Stars of Ballet. This is me trying to express my overly complex and conflicted opinion of the show. 

No doubt about it, Ballet Manila should be lauded for giving the Filipino audience the opportunity to have a glimpse of  best of the best in the world. No other company has been able to do the same. Years have passed but I still cannot forget "Russian Stars of Ballet" which was also made possible by the generosity of Ballet Manila. This time they tried to outdo themselves with "World Stars of Ballet" . Who's who of ballet  all gathered awaiting another spectacle in Aliw theatre. 

The show ran quite long but the audience was never bored. It was vicious cycle of oohhing ahhhing, resting, clapping , and sitting up in excitement. Yoel Carreno and Yolanda Correa Frias, easily were the most applauded of all the stars. The two dancers from Norwegian National Ballet performed the pas de deux from Diana and Acteon  Yoel Carreno appeared like an Adonis with his beautiful physique and strong  masculine  style. At times he seemed to just fly. His cabrioles  were clean and crisp. The thing that made his tricks so impressive was the  expression in his face. He seemed to enjoy every minute of his time on stage. It was as if dance was his opium.  It was beautiful to watch. Yolanda Correa Frias  was technically very impressive. She had an air of elegance about her. Though I always prefer the quirky cute version of Diana, one cannot help but be impressed with her suave goddess approach  to the role. She was every bit a principal . The audience seemed to unanimously agree that they should be  hailed Stars of the Night.

Everyone was eager to get a glimpse of the alluring and ever so famous  Paloma Herrera from American Ballet Theatre. She was partnered by Maxim Beloserkovsky in the pas de deux "Apollo". The piece they performed was not flashy at all. It was simple but beautiful. It once again proves that you don't necessarily need tricks on stage to impress a crowd. Paloma was exquisite. Every time she went en pointe, she just amazed everyone with her beautiful feet. she elongates  her body beautifully articulating every movement. She really did not disappoint. Her partner was definitely very skilled but the pas de deux  really did showcase more of the woman then the man. 

Ballet Manila's very own Lisa Macuja also peformed with Rudy De Dios. The BM Principals appropriately picked " Don Quixote"  pas de deux . Kitri is one of the roles that made Lisa Macuja famous. She delivered and represented the Filipinos well with her quirky, flirtatious and extremely energizer bunny version of "Kitri". 

It would seem that the show being filled with so much spectacles, that I would leave with a fully satiated mind. However, something about Ballet Manila's performance bothered me a bit. I have been a Ballet Manila follower and have inevitably  developed interest in some of their dancers. But it seemed that the show showcased only its younger breed of dancers. I may be imagining things but it seems like the past few shows have only showcased the newer dancers who  honestly pale in comparison with the more seasoned dancers(hasty generalization , I know!). I was delighted to finally see Nino Guevarra, Michael Divinigracia and Alvin Santos showcased in significant parts in Bam Damian's celebration of masculinity during the World Stars show. True the younger dancers are beautiful to look at, indeed full of potential. But I am saddened by the fact that the more senior seasoned dancers have to constantly take a step back away from the limelight. I wish I could have seen  Nino Guevarra take the title role in Don Quixote as I know he would have been a brilliant partner for Lisa Macuja. I have not forgotten his award winning performance in Namcya where he wowed everyone with his his fancy footwork. I would have loved to see Alvin Santos showcased in a classical piece showing his exquisite extensions. I would have loved to see Michael Divinigracia in a challenging modern piece. Though I know Mylene Aggabao is a treasured Principal in the company, I did not see her perform a grand pas de deux in the show. They would have represented the Filipino community well. I guess I am left wondering why,,..... why did they not choose their strongest dancers?

So there. That's why it took so long for me to write this post. I am floored to have watched such beautiful foreign dancers . But at the same time I did leave with a bit of a heavy heart because I missed Ballet Manila's own stars (With the exception of Lisa Macuja) Perhaps I am imagining things but that's what I took home that night. A bittersweet evening as they say. Nonetheless, I say Bravo to Ballet Manila for a job well done. If the intention is to inspire the local balletomanes and ballerinas, mission accomplished. Indeed World  Stars of Ballet will be one show that will be difficult to forget. Thank you for the experience. 

June 8, 2012

World Stars of Ballet 

Ballet Manila 

Aliw Theatre 

Photo Credit: Geri Francisco 

I COULD BE WRONG :)

Starstruck and Stuck : Yuan Yuan Tan

Years of being a dancer has I guess softened my heart. I hesitate before I throw a criticism because I know how hard it it to rehearse for a piece. Corns, callouses, bruises and injuries have made me a more appreciative member of the audience. But as the years of experience  on stage have taught me a thing or two, so have the audience chairs.   I am a balletomane and a self-confessed theatre buff. I've scampered around for as much tickets I could get my hands on. Having seen so much, hardly do I go home with my mind  blown. Though I do admire many dancers out there, I hardly get starstruck to the point of speechlessness.   I don't really ask for autographs. The only cherished autographed item in my house is my artist pass signed by Ms. Maniya Barredo. But Yuan Yuan Tan's performance in Ballet Soiree was just so good, it turned both me and my husband into giddy children waiting for the star of the show to come out. Luckily she did!!!!!! Thank the stars for a beautiful momento. So here I am thoroughly star struck. I guess all those years of dancing never did train me to be the pefect FAN!

Dancing with the Stars: Hongkong Ballet

Every time I plan a  visit to  Hong Kong, I check the theatre schedules for ballet or broadway shows.  A few years ago, I had the pleasure of watching Yuan Yuan Tan dance with Hong Kong Ballet in "Jewels". Unfortunately, that was the only thing that she danced that night because she alternated with another guest artist for the role of Odette in Swan Lake.  But what I saw then was enough to capture my interest. I did not know much about her then but that single performance made me check the internet for  You tube videos or dance magazine features. She stood out , looking ravishing in  her ruby red costume. Her extensions were comfortably perfect. A good mix of energy and gracefulness made here sparkle and stand out from the rest. Everybody (even the other principals) looked bland beside her.   I vowed to watch her again.

For my birthday, I decided  I wanted to go to Hong Kong to watch Yuan Yuan Tan perform again with Hong Kong  Ballet. Quite an expensive birthday gift to myself, but my husband seemed to think I was worth it :) So off we went to Hong kong and bought tickets . Excited and eager to be wowed, we practically sprinted to the theatre. "Ballet Soiree" started off really weak with  Hong Kong City Ballet's men . Castrati,  a seemingly interesting choreography was not glorified. Soloist Shen Jie and three other soloists showed versatility and strength. Shen Jie in particular was interesting to watch. I have no doubt he will be one of the Company's stars. However, the ensemble looked like they lacked rehearsals. Musicality was often compromised. Seeing Youtube videos of Castrati made it worse as the male dancers of Royal Swedish Ballet were very very precise.  Thank goodness the show quickly redeemed  itself by the entrance of Yuan Yuan Tan . She performed Lady of the Camelias with Guest Artist Vito Mazzeo. I saw a different Yuan Yuan tan, a true chameleon she was. She was sensitive in her portrayal. Her technique was impeccable. Her arabesques made me gasp in admiration. Her movements were stringed together with her grace, with every movement  dripping with emotion. It was amazing to feel her energy from the audience. Vito Mazzeo, ably partnered her and embodied just the right amount of charm and testosterone . Their partnering was absolutely seamless. I was beyond impressed. After the pas de deux, it was time for Hong Kong City Ballet's girls to show their stuff. They did not disappoint. A beautiful choreography called "Dancing with the Wind" by Li Jun showcased  the capabilities of the women. The choreography had a strong concept, the chinese aesthetic. It was a delight to see simple elements of  light and dance on stage make magic. I will not forget the dreamy quality of this piece. It was a breath of fresh air.   This performance was followed by another Pas De Deux by Yuan Yuan Tan and Vito Mazzeo. This time it was short but still most definitely sweet. Pas De Deux from Symphonic Dances was all about technical lifts and an exhibition of flexibility of both dancers. The duo delivered, keeping the audience wanting for more. Christian Spuck's  Le Grande Pas De Deux performed by Liu Yu-Yao and Zhang Yao followed. It was what it promised to be, a comical parody. It was for the lack of words to describe it, cute. Both dancers committed to the characters and performed the classical requirements  with ease.  Last on the repertoire was Theme and Variations , choreography by George Balanchine.  Ji Yao played the principal role. She performed the very difficult ballet with a comfortable smile. She  was no Yuan Yuan Tan but she did consistently deliver. The curtain fell and I found myself  clapping  with enthusiasm. 

Hong Kong City Ballet for me has grown so much. I used to think they were good but bland. This time, they re-introduced themselves to me and made me a certified fan. However, having seen  the difference between San Francisco Ballet's A team, they do have a long way to go before they reach their fullest potential.  Yuan Yuan Tan's performance really showed what  they should aspire to be, beautiful, strong and exciting. I had my fill that night. The show was worthy of my applause. Their growth was worthy of my admiration. More importantly, their star was worthy of my ADORATION . A beautiful way to say goodbye to Hong Kong. I left thoroughly impressed and happy having seen such beautiful art. I look forward to coming back to see  Hong kong Ballet's next great leap to greatness. Can't wait to see my friend  Candice Adea shine with the stars. 

Touched by Ea : Wifi Body 2012

   

If there's anything good about me at all, its my capacity to

 take in good stuff with my senses and keep it there forever. 

I look at myself as a collector of beautiful things.                                                                          I allow my senses to just absorb the good.                                                                     The garbage on the other hand goes in and goes out 

 (unfortunately I have no control over how it goes out.)

So here I am with a beautiful lingering thought  about a past choreography. 

Lucky to have been fortunate enough to have been touched by art. 

I've always believed that in silence, one can hear your own thoughts. In solitude, you can feel without restriction. When you're alone, you are free. Being alone however, never guarantees that  you figure everything out. There will be days that you will just coast and just continue walking aimlessly, .... alone. Thankfully, the universe gives each soul a pivotal moment that changes everything. It comes in different packages but the best package of all is when you are touched. 

The stage blank as a canvass, with only a woman  showcased. Stillness. The woman tells hers story. Her journey is rich  but she's alone. As life would have it she is confronted with something different but new at the same time. She meets a man just as she has a million times over. But this time, she feels different.  In a moment she goes through all the emotions, but keeping her intentions restrained. Excitement, uncertainty, burning desire, happiness all encapsulated in the eyes. And then comes the life changing moment, he touches her hand. All will never be the same again. She realizes the power of a touch. Sensual ? Yes. Comforting Yes. The woman realizes its more than just that. A single touch made everything brand new. Her breath is shared by another and they dance almost never hand in hand but together. A new journey is about to take place because she has been touched.

 This in my  mind, was Ea Torrado's WIFI piece . Her choreography was much like  her story. Her piece at that moment made me feel different. I had been touched.  At the end of her piece  I was no longer watching with my eyes. In fact, I must confess that I was taken back to the moment my loving husband tried to touch my hand. Beautiful choreography danced by two beautiful dancers. Truly blessed to have seen it. 

Touched by: Ea Torrado

Show details :

WIFI GALA SHOW 

June 14, 2012

CCP Little Theatre

Dancers: Erick Dizon and Ea Torrado
Music by Parachutes: Paperbirds
Choreographer: Ea Torrado

Photo Credit : David John Garcia 

Surprises in Japan

When I travel, I always make it a point to TRY to see a little bit of art. It's always been part of my bucket list to spend at least a day at the theatre  in each country I visit . Sadly, it doesn't always work out because of so many restricting factors. Sometimes its just too damn expensive. Sometimes the schedule just isn't right . But sometimes the universe connives with me and reveals art and inspiration in the oddest of places. Sometimes, you don't need the grand theatre to showcase something good. 

I've been to Japan several times and because of my busy work schedule , I never get to see any cultural performances. Last May though, my client invited me to see what they call a SHOW DINNER .Seeing that all my clients were Japanese men (and they often forget I'm a woman) I was quite curious to know what kind of show it would be. I figured it would be ala western style dinner theatre with a cabaret type of performance . In the middle of Ginza?!,.... it could be anything right?! So there, I was made to go inside a small entrance that led to an underground restaurant with small stage and a couple of very narrow tables. Both male, and female performers came out in their Kimonos to  introduce themselves to all the guests. We couldn't figure out who amongst them "girls" were really girls coz everyone was just so tall thin and silky.  One of them introduced himself and asked us where we were from and I said Manila, Philippines. He excitedly told us that one of the peformers came from the Philippines. So he asked him to come out. He came out in full gear. He looked vaguely familiar to me and then he said " I used to dance for PHILIPPINE BALLET THEATRE". UMMMM..... I'm from Philippine Ballet Theatre. I had to know this guy and he HAD  to know me! I  introduced myself and he realized who he was and I realized who he was. He thought I was JAPANESE. In all fairness, we aged a bit and its been around  a decade since I last saw him. His name is Rency. When I was a company member in PBT he was a scholar and we danced together in 2 productions. I was amazed to find out that he has been dancing all sorts of genres in Japan for nearly 9 years. We said our goodbyes and I appreciated that he told my clients that I was " a  respected principal dancer " in the Philippines (Disclaimer :SO NOT TRUE) . Curious couldn't describe how I felt at that point.... I was so close to just shouting " Let the show begin! ". 

The show opened with a comedy act which  I obviously did not comprehend. I knew he was funny coz the crowd howled and screamed in appreciation.  I politely smiled and giggled at appropriate points . Then they finally revealed the stage. I expected a makeshift stage  because the venue was so small . I was mistaken! It was a multilevel stage that  looked like a jigsaw puzzle . It moved up, moved down, and was capable of splitting into  levels . The stage however small it was, was fully equipped with lights, effects, even a smoke machine and a blower. Out came the dancers. They danced everything. To name a few genres, the show had  jazz, hiphop, erotic, belly dancing, traditional japanese and even ballet. The repertoire had a combination of straightforward performances and slapstick treatment. The stage movement was dynamic and  constantly created a magical entrance and exit. 

 While everything we watched was purely commercial, I must say it was still a unique enjoyable experience.  For one thing, there were only 8 dancers who filled the  1 hour or so show with no intermission. The sustained energy was admirable. The commitment to entertain everyone could be seen and felt from all of the performers. They were giving their all in every single one of the sketches. Not all were good but they bared their souls out there. After watching this show it reaffirmed once again my belief that being a dancer is not about just technique. Its about sharing with an audience your spirit so you could move them . Its about making people smile, laugh,  and or cry. I enjoyed them. The best part of my experience was realizing that FILIPINOS WILL SHINE  WHEREVER THEY GO. Rency was the best dancer in that pack. Think superlatives. He had the most energy. He had the most technique. He had the most stage presence. He had his heart on his sleeve. AND!!!!!! He was the most manly of the male dancers. I couldn't have been prouder. A Filipino reigned supreme in that stage.  At that moment, my heart really overflowed with pride. 

So at the end of the day, in the busy streets of ginza I did get to see something special. It was not high art per se'. Nonetheless, it was was a heartfelt expression for love of performing. It was commitment written all over that ticket. I know they enjoyed. I did too. 

 www.konparuza.co.jp

03-6215-8593 

MY BOSSES WHO ENJOYED IMMENSELY. ALL SMILES 

(i really think they forgot i was a girl)

I'm a Dancer :PLANA FORMA

Luring me to the Plana Forma studio is the promise of an encounter with "the" Julie Alagde (forgot her new last name). Im a ballerina at heart,but my roots were from Ballet Philippines. CCP days meant live breath eat all genres from folk to modern to jazz and finally the tutus. Consequently, I acquired a taste for contemporary and jazz. That's why I knew who Julie Alagde was from a far. I've seen her teach modern. I've seen her perform. I knew she was a gift to the dance world. But I have never EXPERIENCED her. When a friend told me that she was indeed giving special dance classes in Plana Forma, I was more than intrigued. Out of shape, missing the movement in my life, I went with one of my best friends. She entered the room and glanced at the newcomers.I didn't expect her to know me but apparently she kind of did. She walked up to me and said "You're a dancer aren't you?! What's your name again?!" To that I answered "I'm trying to get back in shape. I'm Erica.".  So, the class started with a warm welcome and an introduction. Dimmed lights, with a earthy kind of music, class started. 

As Julie led the class, she instructed not just the body but the soul to move. "I'm not telling you how to move. . .respond to the music and move with your emotion." Not having danced for months, I honestly felt intimidated at first. But because she was so open as a dancer and because the environment was so casual, I eventually let go. Soon, I was a loose cannon extending my arms and legs in every direction forgetting completely that it was a small space and that other people were beside me.(To those I hit . . . sowi :p ) It felt liberating. It was as if I was gifted with time to just BE ME. I spent two hours being in that studio being the real me, dancer me, free me. It felt good to reconnect to my passion. Frankly speaking, it also felt good not to care if I was good enough. The experience was food for the soul. At the end of the class, I felt like I came from a spa treatment. My cheeks were rosy pink, my blood fully circulated (SPELL CARDIO WORK OUT) and my mind at ease. I had a good stretch from my toes to my legs to my back to  my heart to my head. It just felt good. 

A good work out usually means a good teacher. But what separates a good teacher from the best teachers would be if she inspires. I left the studio, inspired. I don't really need much inspiration to want to dance as I really was born to be a dancer. But Julie inspired me to claim the word dancer. Its common for me to be asked if I'm still a dancer because people see me everywhere doing different things. I always say jokingly that I'm a retired ballerina. Seeing Julie  dance with so much passion reminded me that  you don't seize to be a dancer just coz you no longer have a signed contract. You don't seize to be a dancer just because you are now a teacher. You don't seize to be a dancer just because you are now a corporate slave. When I left she said "Don't worry about getting back into shape. You are a dancer, dancing will never leave you. Just take class". Feeling emotional, At that point, I almost cried. People listen when they have respect for someone. So I listened.  I did come back for class . It took a while just coz my schedule is indeed a mess. But I did take another class with her. This time I took Zumba (Just for the record, I died :) ) And I know I will take even more classes with her and outside .  Must fight for my right to be a dancer. Just maybe, you'll see me back on stage again. 

         

Relearning my Do-Re-Mis

I hate not having time to write because at  a certain point I feel like a shaken up  coca cola just waiting to burst . I guess I can only take in a certain amount of art before I start convulsing and talking about my precious opinion. The “gigil feeling”  was all the more heightened because my opinion is about an all time favourite “Sound of Music” .

I grew up watching the 1965  movie version starring Julie Andrews as Maria and Christopher Plummer  as Capt Von Trapp. I watched that movie and King and I over and over til my eyes hurt . While my classmates performed   “Anak ng Pasig”  by Smokey Mountain for school entertainment, I thought me and my friends should perform “So long Farewell” of Sound of Music (complete with choreography I might add). I wanted to be Liezle . I wanted to be sixteen with a young admirer. I seem to remember I also had an odd crush on the Capt. Needless to say, Sound of Music was a staple in my life. Even in my teenage and adult years it was my   marshmallow with hot chocolate. I popped  in our vhs,  then vcd then  pirated dvd in that player a million times . Now that I’m a mom, my 3 year old kid sings Do-Re-Mi  etc. Imagine my excitement when I was presented the idea of watching it live.

I caught the second to the last show of  Sound of Music in Resorts World      (May 26, 2012 8PM Cast). The cast was led by the legendary Joanna Ampil as Maria  and  pop singer Ariel Rivera as Capt Von Trapp. I waited in bated breath for  the curtains to open.  Much like the original it opened with Maria in hills and the sisters in the abbey . Instead of a stationary backdrop, the scenes were framed by  Led Screen with animated video graphics. At first, I said to myself “At least they tried new technology”. This kind of approach to set design has been  trending in Europe but  has only recently made its way to Philippine theatre. I must say I’ve seen better execution, but as the play progressed Paul Soriano’s animation did its part in painting a beautiful landscape to a beautiful story. Mio Infante’s intricate sets complimented every scene. Most notable was the abbey set that just seems to give the right touch of eeriness and  serenity of a convent. Given the size of the theatre, it was a brilliant idea to have a camera to support the stage activity with close ups  shown on the side screens.

Joanna Ampil was amazing as Maria. She opened the show with so much energy flowing from head to toe.  For a moment there when she sang  “The hills are alive. . . . with the sound of music ...” I forgot all about Julie Andrews. (That’s a compliment indeed) She transitioned to every scene with the same amount of gusto. Every word she uttered was consistently in perfect accent, every   heavenly note sung dripping with emotion. She was uhhh-maaazing. On a screen, usually theatre acting seems a tad too overperformed . But in this case, as my eyes drifted from the stage to  the screen,  she just managed to take me to that place of just feeling how Maria felt.It did not feel excessive nor bland.

My favourite performance among the children was that of Rebecca Coates who played Louisa. This bright eyed girl was always a scene stealer. Even in the quiet moments she stood out. She committed to the role. Did I mention she also had a beautiful voice to match her pretty little face?!  Though the children as a whole gave a sound performance. Individually some of the children, needed a bit more mentoring as I could not hear the solo pieces where I was sitting. There was a do-re-mi- did i hear a FA... SO ....   i definitely did not here a LA. . . . ti do. 

I just must mention that  having veterans like Pinky Amador as Baroness Shraeder , Debraliz Valasote as Frau Shmidt , Pinky Marquez as Mother Abess  and “the” Miguel Faustman as Max Deweiler (not to mention Joanna Ampil) ensured  a success. Each one of them performed  their  character perfectly en pointe.  Pinky Marquez’s voice brought me tears when she sang “Climb Every Mountain” . Debraliz Valasote, ever the comedian had me chuckling and waiting for her next punch line. Pinky Amador was enigmatic yet sensitive, almost to the point of pushing me to whack the Captain in the head for putting tears in her eyes.  I have always been a fan of Miguel Faustman, he can do no wrong in my eyes. He is funny when he needs to be funny, pensive when he needs to be pensive. He consistently is a star.

Though most, including the cute bickering nuns (Carla Guevarra, Pamela Imperial and Jillian Pena) did  a stellar performance, I could not help but be disappointed about Ariel Rivera’s portrayal of Capt Von Trapp. I do believe he is an excellent singer, and a competent TV screen actor. But in that theatre, I did not see MY Capt Von Trapp. I saw Ariel Rivera trying to look and sound like Capt Von Trapp. He lacked confidence and conviction in his delivery. His accent was constantly failing. There were no peaks nor highs and lows in his acting. At times, his lack-luster performance was a downer. Such was the case when Maria and Capt Von Trapp have their first dance  and when she returns from the Abbey. I do believe, he has a place in the theatre, but he must feed from the brilliant people around him . Perhaps he was nervous about his theatre comeback?!

                               Picture Credit from Circuit Magazine

Overall, I must commend director Roxanne Lapus for presenting to the audience a refreshing  take on Sound of Music. Though I missed some of my favourite scenes, I felt that  the show was put together with love for the story and its music. Despite numerous changes and improvements, I really felt that the spirit of the musical remained on that stage. It was authentic, the real deal.

This play brought me back beautiful memories of  my childhood and teenage years. It soothed my soul as the theatre always does. It reminds me of how beautiful life can be with music and dance  embracing you. Til we meet again Von Trapp Family. 

Beyond Ballet, Beyond Yoga

Life after ballet can be tough . For me its a never-ending cycle of doubting if your decision was sound and being happy and content about the freedom and financial stability I know enjoy.  Thoughts of  what could have been always enter my mind.  But at the end of the day, I do know that I have every reason to say, I've made the right choice.To avoid these moments of self doubt, I have to fill the void that is ballet.

 Though I still perform occasionally,  my body  has long said goodbye to the rigorous 5-8 hour training and rehearsal schedules I used to have. Reunions with the barre are always liberating as it reminds me of who I really am as a person. . Invitations to dance invigorate me as they give me that temporary thrill of being a performer. Making time for my passion however, is not always a possibility. There are times that real life will steer my direction another way.There are days that it saddens me too much to have small doses of ballet and not be part of the  bigger picture. That's why at one point in time, I silently decided to explore other things that may  fill the void.

2010 was the year I was introduced to Yoga by a good friend. Since then I was hooked. For me it was the reverse of everything I learned in ballet yet it strengthened and pushed my body beyond my limits just like ballet. A ballerina will have a hard time with the turned in positions that Yoga will require but it will increase its inner thigh and outer thigh muscle strength. Yoga body binds push the blood circulation to be more active and releases bad toxins from the joints. Both enable the body to heal faster the tissues that need to heal. Furthermore the stretching poses  allow the body to increase flexibility while being at a relaxed state which is the best possible way to stretch. I guess you might say I am an advocate of Yoga.

 Recently, I was encouraged to take a new kind of yoga pioneered  here in the Philippines by Beyond Yoga. I took on the challenge of Anti Gravity Yoga. This type of yoga is a bit similar to aerial arts only it still revolves around the yoga fundamentals. The focus is still in strength, stretch and body healing using the hammock as the instrument The hammock alone and the prospect of being gracefully wrapped by the silk enticed me. I was ready for something new to divert my attention from ballet.  So I excitedly gave it a try.









STRENGTH
Based on my experience, Anti Gravity really puts emphasis in building core strength. Positions will make it almost impossible for the participant not to use their abdominal muscles. Since your arms are constantly connected to the silk, most definitely, the exercises will tone your arms. The exercises will particularly be beneficial to dancers because it will enable them to understand the physics behind inversions . This will give them a better idea on how to respond to a partner during lifts . An example would be how to recover from an inverted position  going to a  flip shoulder lift Another would be how to hang on a partner without him having to hold any body parts. (This is common in contemporary pieces)

STRETCH
Because movements are aided by the silk, the participant can go further . Similar to the concept of using therabands, it helps you go beyond your extremities during the stretch this time using gravity as the  force that pushes you further. Again, this is perfect for dancers because it leaves you no excuse to not be able to achieve the desired extension.

THE MIND
These exercises require trusting a piece of cloth. Actually at first, I felt hesitation take over my body. Thankfully, the teacher explained how strong the structure and the cloth was easing my worries. Antigravity requires you to trust not only the cloth but yourself. The instructor patiently explained each step towards  strange unfamiliar positions. And after every trick you start feeling better and better. At least I felt that way as I was surprised my body easily cooperated with the silk. The trick wasn't just physically mastering it, it was believing you could trust yourself to do it. Antigravity equals no fear! Again, this kind of exercises strengthen even the mind which is essential if you're a dancer. You must learn to trust yourself as you step unto that stage or attack a new choreography.

THE CALM
The best part of the class was the laying down on that hammock with its swaying swooshing motion. I almost fell asleep! It was as if I got rid of the outside world and literally entered a cocoon.  The silence, the peace, the feeling of accomplishment. Nothing better than a moment of peace.


As soon as I was able to gather my thoughts about the class,  I  realized that anti-gravity yoga is a perfect cross training activity  for dancers. It definitely occupied my mind for a couple of days. It was a beautiful experience that I hope I get to try again real soon.


 This is me trying it out. 

Lovely teachers of Beyond Yoga

This is what I want to do in the future.

Beyond Yoga Anti Gravity Studio

For inquiries check out

http://www.igobeyondyoga.com/

Pulso: The Filipino Soul in Dance

March seems to be the kick off month for the Dance Community. Pulso, is the 3rd major dance show  of the year and of the month of March. Having seen foreign shows recently, I was hungry for Filipino flavor. The title of the show being  "Pulso: The Filipino Soul in Dance", I looked forward for a  happy fill of beautiful movement. 

The production was supposed to highlight the current state of the dance community. The intention was to exemplify the Filipino's versatility and ability in various dance genres. Invited performers included heavy hitters such as Philippine Ballet Theatre, Ballet Philippines, Ballet Manila and Ramon Obusan Fokloric Group.

I braved the traffic for the gala show last March 31, 2012. As destiny would have it I missed the first two pieces because of the throng of people marching outside of the CCP in celebration of the lenten season. As they say, better late than never. I made it to my seat and I was still in high spirits with equally high expectations. But the build up, I'm afraid did not do me good. I sat through a few ho hum performances until I saw a few gems. For me a good performance requires three things 1. Strong Technique 2. Emotional Heart 3. A Moving choreography . If one of the three are  beyond good, then people will be forgiving about the other two.

Amongst those who delivered was Ballet Philippines' pride and joy Candice Adea. As expected, she delivered a crisp and clean  performance with her able partner JM Cordero. What was nice to see about their Diana and Actaeon was that it showed progression. It showed that even Principal dancers can  still up their performance a notch or two. Kudos to the pair for additional turns and longer balances. Their presence in the show was also fitting as their wins from  international competitions have instantly made them household names in the dance industry. They represent everything good about the dance community , skilled, versatile, fiery and most importantly unstoppable.

I saw a glimpse of Unschooled (Hip Hop Dance Group) in the finale and  I liked the little that I saw. They were exciting to watch. They exuded confidence and pride . I liked the fact that  their dancers came from different universities. Good fellowship makes my heart fuzzy happy. They too made a statement through their dancing and their existence. Filipino dancing is about overcoming obstacles with a smile on your face. In this case, it was literally a burst of happy energy on stage. They had more than a smile on their faces, their souls were shared with the audience.I'm not surprised that they are now called the new champions in hip hop.

Disappointing to me was the lack luster performance of the famous Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group. For me, their performance was close to amateur. Perhaps it was the inappropriateness of the their selected piece. It did not show the capacity of a CCP resident company. Perhaps, they were unrehearsed or bored?! Im a  BIG  fan of this group but for me, their performance  was boring and uninspired. Ramon Obusan probably wanted to stand up from his grave to give them a beating.

Dance Afficionados did not quite hit the mark . True, the kids were adorable. Yes they were graceful. But to be on stage with the best representing dance sport of the Philippines, you've simply got to bring the goods. It was nowhere near close to Filipinos' best dancing nor effort. They  did not represent the blooming dance sport industry.

The best part of this show was the coda and the curtain call. No sarcasm here. It literally was the coolest part of it all. All the dance groups performed the different genres as they bowed. I have to admit it did generate  a bit of laughter from me seeing some awkwardly dance. Led by no less than Lisa Macuja, they started a dance off. Hip hoppers were flying in the air. The ballroom dancers were spinning. Lisa Macuja and Candice Adea did a fouette showdown. The danseurs did ala seconde turns . The contemporary dancers showed off their fabulous lifts. In this case dancing with the heart (in my head) propelled the show  from ho hum to exhilarating. It was amazing. It filled the theatre with life. It made the people bravo til their throats hurt, clap til their palms hurt and dance til they hit the next person. And for that, we have Ms. Edna Vida and Mr. Nonoy Froilan to thank for. No the show was not quite perfect. However, to be able to put together such a spirited and united dance crowd out there is a big challenge. In the end, people stood up to dance. Isn't that the point of it all. Shows should always inspire and put a little happiness in people's heart . Just for that, I say Bravo to Pulso. We've got Soul.

Curtain Call (video quality isn't great . . .  but enjoy!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPVtbY-6NqY&feature=relmfu

Ballet inspires

Just a few things I found. . .... its good feeling when art inspires art :) Check out the links below

Afternoon Tea

Dinner Table

http://sincerelykymberly.wordpress.com/2011/05/05/ballet-inspired-design-board/

Giselle Table

 

http://freshome.com/2012/03/29/ballerina-inspired-giselle-lounge-table-from-russia

Ballerina Wedding 

 

http://apaperproposal.com/2011-2-21

Ballerina Baby

Ballerina Fashion

http://art-opology.blogspot.com/2011/12/swan-fever-ballerina-inspired-fashions.html

http://thefashionreporter.com/blog/2011/07/03/louboutin-ballerina-inspired-shoe/