Features
Manila Symphony Orchestra and Ballet Manila Join Forces for Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty
March 7, 2026
By: V. Nazareno
Two of the Philippines’ most enduring performing arts institutions come together for a landmark moment as the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) and Ballet Manila launch their milestone seasons with a shared production of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet The Sleeping Beauty.
The performances mark the opening of the MSO Centennial Season and Ballet Manila’s 40th Performance Season, bringing together music and movement in a collaboration that highlights the artistic legacy and continuing vitality of both organizations. The production will feature live orchestral music by the Manila Symphony Orchestra under the baton of internationally acclaimed Russian conductor Maestro Alexander Vikulov, with choreography by Ballet Manila’s artistic director Lisa Macuja Elizalde.
As two of the few institutions in the Philippines with a sustained tradition of presenting full-length classical ballets, Ballet Manila and the MSO reaffirm the timeless relationship between symphonic music and dance. Together, they showcase how storytelling can transcend language through the expressive power of sound and movement.
A New Perspective on a Classic Ballet
Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty, Op. 66, remains one of the most celebrated works in the classical ballet repertoire. Ballet Manila’s staging, choreographed by Lisa Macuja Elizalde, offers a distinctive interpretation of the beloved fairy tale.
Part of the company’s Princess Trilogy, following its productions of Cinderella and Snow White, this version of The Sleeping Beauty introduces a reflective narrative element. The ballet opens with a flashback to Princess Aurora’s Dance, suggesting that her heart had already awakened to love even before the fateful sleep that defines the story.
This interpretation emphasizes Aurora’s youthful innocence while framing the narrative through a more emotional lens. The choreography highlights the princess’ growth and inner world, giving audiences a deeper perspective on one of ballet’s most iconic heroines.
Poster courtesy of MSO and Ballet Manila
Photo courtesy of Ballet Manila
The Power of Tchaikovsky’s Music
Central to the production is Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, widely regarded as one of the greatest compositions in ballet history. The music seamlessly balances symphonic richness with elegant dance rhythms, guiding audiences through the ballet’s shifting moods—from ceremonial court scenes to moments of romance and celebration.
Each character is given a distinctive musical identity through varied melodies, orchestration, and rhythms, allowing the orchestra to become an active storyteller alongside the dancers.
Among the most anticipated moments is the Pas de Deux (No. 28), which features a lyrical solo violin passage performed by MSO concertmaster Alessio Benvenuti. The passage adds emotional depth to the ballet’s climactic romantic sequence, highlighting the delicate interplay between orchestra and dancers.
Photo courtesy of MSO
Leading the Manila Symphony Orchestra for the production is Russian conductor, Alexander Vikulov, whose career spans opera, symphonic, and ballet repertoire.
Vikulov made his professional debut at the Mariinsky Theatre in 2002 conducting Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro, launching an international career that has brought him to major venues such as the Vienna State Opera, Teatro Regio di Torino, and the Seoul Arts Center.
A permanent guest conductor of the St. Petersburg State Symphony Orchestra “Klassika,” Vikulov has also maintained a long-standing artistic relationship with Ballet Manila, serving as its musical director and conductor for several productions. Known for bridging Russian and Western musical traditions, he is equally dedicated to audience engagement through concerts, workshops, and educational initiatives.
Celebrating Legacy and Artistic Excellence
Founded in 1926, MSO stands as one of Asia’s oldest orchestras and a cornerstone of the Philippine classical music scene. For a century, the MSO has worked with renowned conductors, soloists, and artists from around the world, bringing international standards of symphonic performance to local audiences.
Now entering its 100th year, the orchestra continues to nurture Filipino musical talent through its educational initiatives and training programs. The MSO’s artistic leadership is currently headed by Music Director Marlon Chen and Executive Director Jeffrey Solares, both committed to expanding the orchestra’s reach and cultural impact.
Ballet Manila, under the artistic direction of prima ballerina Lisa Macuja Elizalde, has likewise played a crucial role in cultivating ballet in the Philippines. Known for its training in the Russian Vaganova method, the company remains dedicated to its mission of bringing ballet to the people and introducing more audiences to the art of classical dance.
Concert Information
The performances are presented by Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation, Inc. and Standard Insurance as part of “In Pursuit of Excellence: The MSO Centennial Season.”
Concert I – Ballet Manila’s Sleeping Beauty
📅 March 13, 2026 – 8:00 PM
📅 March 14 and 15, 2026 – 5:00 PM
📍 Aliw Theater, CCP Complex, Pasay City
🎟 Tickets: bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMSleepingBeauty
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