Ballet Manila Presents Don Quixote Featuring Mariinsky Ballet Stars Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova in Historic Philippine Debut

Ballet Manila concludes its Pearl Year Performance Season with a landmark staging of Don Quixote, led by two international ballet superstars, Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova of the Mariinsky Ballet.

This much-anticipated production marks Kim’s first-ever performance in the Philippines, where he takes on the role of Basilio. Shakirova, who dazzled local audiences in Giselle last year, returns to the Manila stage as Kitri.

Kimin Kim made history as the first foreign male principal dancer of the prestigious Mariinsky Ballet in Russia. Born in Seoul, South Korea, Kim began his ballet training at the age of ten, encouraged by his mother, a composer. He honed his craft in the Vaganova technique under the guidance of former Mariinsky soloists Margarita Kullik and Vladimir Kim at the Korea National University of Arts.

Recognized early on for his extraordinary talent, Kim won top awards at major international ballet competitions in Moscow, Varna, and Jackson. In 2011, he joined the Mariinsky Ballet, overcoming cultural and linguistic challenges through intensive training. His breakout role as Ali in Le Corsaire highlighted his technical brilliance, charisma, and explosive jumps, earning him swift promotion and eventually the title of principal dancer in 2015.

Joining him in this special production is Renata Shakirova, a fellow principal dancer at the Mariinsky Ballet and a protégé of Tatiana Udalenkova. A long-time mentee of Ballet Manila’s own Lisa Macuja, Shakirova is celebrated for her strength, grace, and expressive performances. Don Quixote holds special significance in her career, she debuted in the role of Kitri in 2015 and has since made it one of her most acclaimed portrayals.

Filipino audiences were captivated by Shakirova’s emotionally resonant performance in Giselle last year. Now, she returns to Ballet Manila with renewed energy and technical finesse, promising a vibrant and commanding portrayal of Kitri alongside Kim’s dynamic Basilio.

Artistic Director Lisa Macuja Elizalde shared her excitement about this milestone performance.

“Bringing Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova to Manila for Don Quixote is a dream realized. Their artistry, power, and presence elevate this production to an international standard. As we celebrate Ballet Manila’s 30th year, this performance embodies our vision of presenting world-class ballet to Filipino audiences.”

The production will be staged at Aliw Theater in Pasay City on August 22, 2025, at 8:00 p.m., with additional shows on August 23 and 24 at 5:00 p.m. It serves as the grand finale of Ballet Manila’s 30th-anniversary season, a celebration of excellence in dance and a testament to the company’s mission of cultural enrichment through the performing arts.

Tickets will be available soon at www.ticketworld.com.ph.

For more information about Ballet Manila and upcoming performances, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.