Sleeping Beauty Comes to Life as Ballet Manila Launches PRIMA Performance Season

A kingdom awaits, a princess sleeps, and a curse lingers, until love awakens her.

This March, Ballet Manila kicks off its PRIMA Performance Season with the much-anticipated Sleeping Beauty, the grand finale of the Princess Trilogy Series.

Audiences are invited to witness Princess Aurora’s magical journey from slumber to awakening on March 13 at 8:00 p.m., and on March 14 and 15 at 5:00 p.m. at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City. Every performance will feature the Manila Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Alexander Vikulov, bringing Tchaikovsky’s timeless score to life.

Fairy-tale princesses have captivated generations, and Ballet Manila transforms these classic stories into a mesmerizing dance spectacle. Every graceful leap and precise turn embodies the elegance, innocence, and charm of the beloved characters. What makes this season’s Sleeping Beauty even more remarkable is that it is directed and choreographed by Ballet Manila’s Artistic Director and CEO, Lisa Macuja Elizalde.

“This production is particularly exciting because it completes our Princess Trilogy,” says Lisa. “It feels like all the stories we’ve been telling are coming together in one magical universe.”

Adding an extra layer of enchantment, this version of Sleeping Beauty will feature special appearances from Cinderella and Snow White, sharing the stage with Aurora. “Having all three princesses on stage is a real treat,” Lisa shares.

The finale also coincides with a historic milestone, the Manila Symphony Orchestra quietly celebrates its 100th anniversary. Lisa reflects on the significance of performing Tchaikovsky’s original score with the orchestra: “It’s such a delight to perform alongside the Manila Symphony Orchestra. Music and dance have always gone hand in hand in shaping Philippine culture, and this makes the performance even more special.”

Manila Symphony Orchestra president Maan Hontiveros emphasizes the enduring partnership between the orchestra and Ballet Manila: “Lisa has always been a steadfast supporter of the orchestra. This milestone reminds us that music feeds the soul, and when paired with ballet, it creates a legacy that lasts.”

The collaboration has been ongoing since 2011, surviving the challenges of the pandemic and now returning stronger than ever to celebrate the orchestra’s centennial year. “We’re grateful to Lisa and Fred Elizalde for their unwavering presence and support in our performances,” Hontiveros adds.

The Princess Trilogy’s conclusion with Sleeping Beauty is more than a finale, it’s a celebration of artistry, collaboration, and Philippine culture. Ballet and live music merge to create an experience that resonates long after the final bow.

Stay updated on Ballet Manila’s upcoming performances and events by visiting www.balletmanila.com.ph or booking tickets at www.ticketworld.com.ph.