LEIH VENCEL Y.

TICMAN

Grade 10 – Assumption

ACTIVITY 1

“Filipino Masterpieces” features two of three acts of the ballet “Mantones de

Manila”—”Sa Sala” and “Sa Entablado.”

In performances which have been choreographed to occur at a genteel, upper-class receiving

room for guests (Sa Sala) and onstage (Sa Entablado), both acts use the medium of dance to
portray a nostalgic visualization of different customs and traditions during the turn of the 20th
century. Choreographed by the late, esteemed Filipino choreographer, Tony Fabella, this ballet
pays homage to different aspects of Tony Fabella’s dance influences, which run the gamut from
classical to Philippine folk dance.

The costumes have been originally designed and made by Fabella himself, and now updated to
accommodate the passing of the years. Lavish gowns and tutus recall an opulent Spanish-
Philippine era, each one accented by the “manton,” a beautifully embroidered shawl worn by the
cultured ladies of an era long gone, but still wielding its influence in modern Filipiniana dress
and demeanor.

“Serye at Sayaw” provides interesting vignettes behind the scenes into the world of dance and
the life of Marguerite, a dancer. It chronicles the intimate and triumphant story of a girl who
dreamt of becoming a ballerina and discovered the price she has to heed the call of her passion,
the loves of her life, and her art.

Portraying the sacrifices, internal conflicts and contrasting traits of a dancer, this ballet is a story
of courage and tenacity, loss and regret, of the highs and lows of following one’s passion, and
unbelievable devotion – to her art and to those whom she loved.

Meanwhile, in celebration of the 121st anniversary of Philippine Independence, KalayaanSF and

the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee, in cooperation with The Philippine Consulate
General of San Francisco, will have PBT presenting Kalayaan on Pointe at the McKenna Theatre
of the San Francisco State University.

Heroes and legends of the 1898 fight for Philippine independence against Spain come alive in a
stirring performance by 20 award-winning performers of the highly acclaimed Philippine Ballet
Theatre, resident company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

“Andres Bonifacio” depicts a vivid slice of Philippine history that revolves around the iconic
figurehead of the Philippine revolution against Spanish colonization. This ballet is performed in
two acts, each showing pivotal scenes which depict key moments in history that portray the
Filipino struggle for independence and freedom.
“The Great Classics” showcases the outstanding artistry and solid technique of the dancers,
starting with a curation of well-loved dances from The Nutcracker suite, featuring scenes from
Act 2, where the Clara and the Nutcracker Prince are regaled by performances at the Kingdom of
Sweets, followed by a romantic pas de deux from The Merry Widow, and culminating in a fiery
rendition of the grand pas de deux from Don Quixote, a number which does not fail to rouse
cheers of excitement and delight from the audience.