Lisa Macuja Elizalde brings creative vision to Ballet Manila’s first full-length Paquita in the Philippines

(L-R) Ballet Manila principal dancers Romeo Peralta and Mark Sumaylo; soloist Shamira Drapete; artistic director and CEO Lisa Macuja-Elizalde; soloist Jos David Andes; principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro; and soloist John Balagot

History takes center stage as Lisa Macuja Elizalde brings her unparalleled creative vision to Ballet Manila’s first ever full‑length production of Paquita. Set at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City, this landmark performance marks a bold step in elevating classical ballet in the Philippines.

Ballet Manila Premieres Paquita – Philippines’ First Full-Length Staging of the Classical Masterpiece

Ballet Manila celebrates love and triumph with historic 

full-length world premiere of Paquita

Ballet Manila principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro and Joshua Enciso

Filipino audiences have long embraced stories of sweeping romance, hidden identities, and hard-won triumph. Ballet Manila now brings these themes to life in a landmark moment: the country’s first ever, full length staging of the classical masterpiece Paquita. Choreographed by the company’s founder and artistic director, Lisa Macuja Elizalde, the production goes onstage at the Aliw Theater, Pasay City, with performances on June 19 at 8:00 p.m. and June 20–21 at 5:00 p.m.