LOS ANGELES – The Philippine Ballet Theatre, the pre-eminent ballet company in the Philippines under the aegis of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, is set to perform “Music in Motion” at Royce Hall on the campus of UCLA on Saturday, October 21. The 26-member company will present a stunning program that weaves classical ballet with indigenous and traditional Filipino dances in a presentation that features special appearances by the acclaimed concert pianist Dr. Raul Sunico as well as the Concert King of the Philippines, Martin Nievera.
“Act 1 is called ‘Ibalon’, an original Filipino ballet lifted from the well-known Bicolano,” explained Marilou Magsaysay, president of Philippine Ballet Theatre. “It is a story of love and kindness, the very things this world needs most of. It features Ron Jaynario’s choreography of colorful dances from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao accompanied by original music from Paulo Zarate.”
Executive producer Rosie Chua is planning an unforgettable night of entertainment. “Our dear friend, Martin Nievera, will be singing some of his most popular songs accompanied by acclaimed concert pianist Raul Sunico,” explained Chua. “And they will be joined by the PBT dancers on stage for a spectacular celebration of the upcoming holiday season!”
“I always look for an excuse to sing before an L.A. audience,” confessed Nievera. “And to be able to sing my hit songs, including a Christmas song that I wrote myself and put to dance would be a treat, especially for me!”
There are many other surprises awaiting patrons of the one-night-only presentation. A pre-concert VIP reception will showcase the contemporary designs of Cora Manimbo. The self-taught designer creates wearable fashion from indigenous Philippine textiles (piña cloth from Aklan; abel from Ilocos Norte; malong and yakan from Cotabato; Ifugao from the Mt. Province, etc.) and has made a name for herself amongst her Philippine fashion-conscious clientele. The reception will also present traditional Philippine cuisine prepared by Arko Foods. The VIP reception package includes priority seating.
“Music in Motion” marks Philippine Ballet Theatre’s third appearance in Los Angeles with a new presentation. “Their performances are always breathtaking and inspiring, and I know that our audience will be amazed!” said Chua, who is overseeing this special evening of Philippine cuisine and talent.
All audience members will be eligible for a raffle drawing with the winners receiving a genuine pearl necklace, domestic airline tickets to destinations of their choice and other prizes. The grand prize winner will receive a roundtrip ticket to the Philippines sponsored by Philippine Airlines, the major sponsor of “Music in Motion.”
During the Holiday celebration segment, the stage will be decorated with Philippine made parols especially designed for this performance. Audience members will have the opportunity to purchase these parols after the show and can also enjoy traditional Christmas treats and delicacies from Arko Foods. The evening show will be hosted by ABC7 field reporter Christiane Cordero. “This show is also a small fundraiser,” added Chua. “We will be supporting the Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.”
“Music in Motion” is proudly sponsored by Asian Commodities, Philippine Airlines, Arko Foods, Island Pacific Supermarket, GTT International, LBC, Ascott Limited Philippines, Ambrosia Delights, One La Salle, Gerry’s Restaurant & Bar, Print Hub USA, Mama Sita’s and Max & Lucy’s along with support from Asian Journal, So Jannelle, US Asian Post and Weekend Balita.
UCLA students, faculty, staff and administration can take advantage of a $5 discount on any price tiers by showing a valid UCLA I.D. at Central Ticket Office. “We hope the Bruin campus population can support this fantastic ensemble of artists who are coming from the Philippines to share their talents in this unforgettable show,” said Ted Benito, who is producing the presentation for LXV Enterprises, LLC. “It’s rare for audiences to experience this magical mix of traditional classical ballet and indigenous Philippine dance. It’s going to be a phenomenal performance!” he exclaimed.
Tickets are $200 (which includes the VIP-reception package), $100, $75, $50 and balcony seats at $35. Patrons should go to ROYCEHALL.ORG or call 818.859.3108 or 213.458.0582 for tickets and further information. n