Below is the reposted and edited version of my review published in Theater Fans Manila (See link below) with some of my favorite photos from the production
Ballet Manila’s closing show of “Don Quixote” had the springing vitality of an opening. Jasmine Pia Dames in her first ever leading role (Kitri), stepped into that stage leaving a trace of fire in her path. Her eyes ablaze with passion, her mouth perfectly shaped into a flirtatious smile and her legs ready for the first powerful grand jete’ (split jump). No trace of fatigue and injury, she gave the audience a clear message, “I’m new, I’m young and I deserve to be here.”
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Don Quixote
Jasmine Pia Dames as Kitri |
Ironically in a beautiful contrast, she was partnered with a veteran. Gerardo Francisco took on the role of “Basilio” and he too sent a message in his first sixteen counts. His was a resounding “I’m seasoned, I’m strong and I deserve to be here.” Indeed the opening conversation was as convincing as a sugary sweet bite of apple pie. Soon enough, I forgot about who was soloist and who was Principal because their magnetic chemistry left me in a blur. Their partnership seemed mature with every lift punctuated with quiet sustained balances. Their nuances with each other were charmingly believable. More importantly, they seem to already have gained confidence in each other. As in life, beauty on stage is about finding the right fit. Theirs was a pretty good match.
Jasmin Pia Dames was a reliable technician. Save for her foiled fouettes she delivered extensions, gasp worthy leaps and clean turns. Evidently very comfortable on stage, she had a blast and so the audience also had a blast. She shared every moment with everyone in the audience not once holding back on her emotions. While there is room for purposeful refinement and restraint, her performance was a beautiful beginning of a promising career.
Gerardo Francisco was endearing. Perfectly cast, he showed up with an ample amount of boyish charisma. He defied gravity with his athletic jumps. He spun quadruple pirouettes with ease and consistency. I realize I have missed seeing this man top bill classical roles. I’m glad that he was given the chance to remind people how great he is as a classical dancer. His performance, I believe was a game changer.
The sensational pair was supported by a cast who clearly worked hard to deliver the full ballet experience. With a legion of soloists dancing as corps de ballet, the company looked very polished. Particularly beautiful was their picturesque dream scene. Lit up and colored like a fairy tale by lighting director Jimmy Villanueva, it was almost therapeutic to see the dancers move to the delightful music of Ludwig Minkus.
Jessa Ballote displayed strong technique with her quick and clean execution of Cupid jumps. Her legs were consistently fully extended despite the musical demands of the music. I would have loved to see her play and enjoy more but here solid technique is enough to be lauded. Crysdavince Violet as the Dryad Queen was lyrical and she seems to be ever so comfortable with adagio combinations.
Worthy of mention is Reese Camaclang who is simply a force to be reckoned with. Armed with youth, she is definitely attacking her career with passion. The same passion was exhibited in her vibrant and surprisingly mature interpretation of Mercedes. Her presence consistently added color to every scene.
Overall the performance managed to tell a beautiful story of love and laughter while showcasing a full roster of impressive artists. Wearing with beautifully made costumes designed by Michael Miguel and the late Eric Cruz, the dancers looked pristine. As the song goes, Everything was beautiful at the ballet. Everyone was beautiful at the ballet.
February 26, 2017
Aliw Theatre
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