For Anna Isabel C. Sobrepeña, Ballet Philippines’ “Ang Panaginip” was more than just a performance—it was a mesmerizing fusion of movement, music, and cultural artistry. As she witnessed the company’s 55th season finale unfold, she was struck by the seamless interplay of dance and design, set against a backdrop of Philippine heritage.
The evening began with a vibrant cocktail reception at The Theatre at Solaire, where guests arrived in elegant, modern interpretations of the national dress. The anticipation was palpable, and the theater itself became a stage for celebrating Filipino artistry even before the curtain rose. Once inside, Sobrepeña was transported into a dreamlike world where choreography and costume combined to tell a uniquely Filipino story.
Homage to traditional craftsmanship
A highlight of the production was the collaboration between Ballet Philippines and designer Jor-el Espina, whose costumes masterfully incorporated indigenous weaves collected over his two-decade career. Sobrepeña appreciated how Espina’s designs not only complemented the dancers’ movements but also paid homage to traditional craftsmanship. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of his creations swirled gracefully in the pas de deux and grand adagio, reinforcing the ballet’s visual storytelling. Espina himself remarked on the synergy between ballet and fashion, emphasizing that both disciplines share an emphasis on lines, movement, and silhouette—an observation that resonated deeply with the evening’s performance.
Artistic Director Mikhail Martynyuk’s vision was another element that captivated Sobrepeña. She noted his reference to relevé, a movement in which dancers rise to their toes—a fitting metaphor for Ballet Philippines’ evolution and innovation. For Martynyuk, “Ang Panaginip” was more than just another production; it was a challenge for the dancers to push their limits, mastering intricate rhythms and demanding technical precision. Sobrepeña recognized this commitment to excellence in the way each movement was executed with both strength and grace.
An evocative orchestral score
The inspiration for the ballet, as relayed by Ballet Philippines President Kathleen Liechtenstein, stemmed from an illustrated comic book that she shared with Martynyuk during a family vacation. His immediate enthusiasm led to the rapid development of a storyline and musical mapping, which composer Glenn Aquias then transformed into an evocative orchestral score. Sobrepeña admired the haunting beauty of the music, infused with the sounds of Filipino instruments, which added layers of depth and emotion to the performance.
Celebrating Filipino culture and identity
The ballet’s set design drew from the natural beauty of the Philippines, particularly the Seven Falls in Lake Sebu. Martynyuk’s vision of blending the real and the fantastical transported audiences into a world where dreams and reality intertwined. Sobrepeña found herself fully immersed in the narrative, following the journey of 18 princesses—each representing a Philippine region—who longed for freedom beyond the constraints of their palace. Their struggles and triumphs reflected broader themes of self-discovery and empowerment, making the ballet’s message deeply resonant.As the final note lingered in the air and the dancers took their bows, the spontaneous applause reaffirmed the performance’s impact. For Sobrepeña, “Ang Panaginip” was not only a technical and artistic triumph but also a powerful celebration of Filipino culture and identity—one that left a lasting impression on all who witnessed its magic. Read Anna Isabel C. Sobrepeña’s full story in Inquirer Lifestyle.
