With award-winning productions that feature masterpieces from the Filipino dance repertoire and brand-new works by young choreographers, the Metropolitan Theater and the Cultural Center of the Philippines present a new and exciting season of dance featuring artists of the Professional Artist Support Program and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines.
“Encantada:” In celebration of Earth Day, the season opens with “Encantada”, a Filipino masterwork directed and choreographed by National Artist for Dance Agnes Locsin with music by Joey Ayala, libretto by Al Santos, and production design by National Artist Salvador Bernal.
“Encantada” runs 14-15 April 2023 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, and 21-22 April 2023 at the Metropolitan Theater.
“Rama, Hari: A Filipino” modern rock opera ballet, “Rama, Hari” is an acclaimed collaboration among five National Artists — Alice Reyes for direction and choreography, Ryan Cayabyab for music, Salvador Bernal for production design, Bienvenido Lumbera for the libretto, and English translations by Rolando Tinio. An adaptation of the Sanskrit epic poem Ramayana, this masterpiece features renowned singers in the Filipino music industry and incorporates traditional theatre, song, and dance devices found and shared among Asian nations.
Rama, Hari runs 15-16 September at the Metropolitan Theater, and 22-23 September at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.
“Carmen and Other Spirits:” The passion and high drama of Bizet’s opera ignites the stage with Alice Reyes’ “Carmen.” This bold piece showcases the artists’ dynamism and bravado in the modern, contemporary, and neo-classical genres. It features iconic gems in the Filipino dance repertoire and the premiere of choreographic works by a new generation of top Filipino choreographers, including a suite of dances exploring the rich culture of the Bicol Region.
It runs 20-21 October at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, and 27-28 October | at the Metropolitan Theater.
“Puso ng Pasko:” A well-loved production that premiered in 2022, “Puso ng Pasko” returns as the new Filipino holiday tradition for the family. From parols to puto bumbong, Simbang Gabi to parties in the town plaza, young love to nostalgia via Zoom, the spirit of Paskong Pinoy is celebrated to the timeless music of favorite Filipino Christmas carols arranged by Ryan Cayabyab.
It runs 1-2 December at the Metropolitan Theater, and 22 December at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.
For season s ubscriptions and ticket reservations, contact Kurt Copon ardancephilippinesinc@gmail.com or subscribe online: https://forms.gle/9wMV1Vfw91orBcjo8.