Ballet Manila Welcomes Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim Back to Manila for a Breathtaking La Bayadère Performance

The Philippine ballet scene is set to shine brighter this August as two of the world’s most admired ballet stars return to Manila for a breathtaking performance filled with passion, elegance, and extraordinary artistry.

Ballet Manila welcomes back Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim for a special staging of La Bayadère, one of ballet’s most celebrated masterpieces. The highly anticipated performances will be held at the Aliw Theater on August 14 at 8 PM, and August 15 and 16 at 5 PM.

Their return highlights Ballet Manila’s continued dedication to bringing exceptional international talent to Filipino audiences, offering theatergoers a rare opportunity to witness globally acclaimed artists perform on the local stage.

For Ballet Manila founder and artistic director Lisa Macuja Elizalde, having Shakirova and Kim return is a celebration of the strong connection they have built with Filipino audiences.

“We are very excited to welcome Renata and Kimin back to Ballet Manila,” said Macuja Elizalde. She looked back on their memorable appearance in Don Quixote and the overwhelming response they received from audiences. Their remarkable performances and undeniable chemistry made a lasting impression, leaving many Filipino ballet fans eager to see them perform again.

Two Ballet Superstars at the Height of Their Craft

Renata Shakirova has established herself as one of the most captivating ballerinas of the Mariinsky Ballet. Her exceptional talent and artistry earned her the prestigious 2025 Benois de la Danse award, widely considered one of the highest honors in the ballet world.

Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Shakirova is celebrated for her emotional depth, musical interpretation, and commanding presence on stage. Through her powerful performances, she has become one of the Mariinsky’s most respected prima ballerinas.

Kimin Kim’s rise to international fame is a remarkable story of dedication and determination. Starting ballet at around age 10, he eventually became the first foreign male principal dancer in the history of the Mariinsky Ballet.

Recognized for his breathtaking jumps, precision, and exceptional technique, Kim has earned admiration from audiences around the world. His partnership with Shakirova has also brought them major recognition, including their victory at the Russia Kultura TV Grand Ballet competition in 2016.

The Timeless Drama of La Bayadère Comes Alive

First created by legendary choreographer Marius Petipa, La Bayadère remains one of the most iconic works in classical ballet. Its sweeping romance, dramatic storytelling, and unforgettable choreography continue to captivate audiences across generations.

Set in ancient India, the ballet tells the tragic story of Nikiya, a temple dancer, and Solor, a noble warrior whose love is challenged by jealousy, power, and betrayal.

The High Brahmin, who secretly desires Nikiya, reveals her relationship with Solor to the Rajah, setting off a chain of events that leads to heartbreak and tragedy. The story moves between the world of mortals and the mystical realm of the afterlife, creating one of ballet’s most emotional narratives.

For Kim and Shakirova, La Bayadère is a familiar and deeply meaningful work. Kim has become widely recognized for his portrayal of Solor at the Mariinsky Theatre, while Shakirova has performed both Nikiya and Gamzatti, demonstrating her versatility and dramatic range.

Their experience with these roles brings a level of authenticity and emotional understanding that promises to make Ballet Manila’s production a memorable experience for audiences.

A Celebration of World Class Ballet in Manila

With Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim returning to the Philippine stage, Ballet Manila continues its mission of connecting Filipino audiences with some of the finest ballet artists from around the world.

Their performance of La Bayadère offers more than a showcase of technical excellence. It is a celebration of storytelling, emotion, and the timeless beauty of ballet.

“Renata and Kim’s extensive experience with La Bayadère promises Filipino audiences a moving and authentic interpretation of Marius Petipa’s enduring masterpiece,” said Lisa Macuja Elizalde. “We hope that by the end of the show, the audience will have a renewed love for ballet.”

For tickets, performance schedules, and updates, visit Ballet Manila’s official website at www.balletmanila.com.ph and TicketWorld at www.ticketworld.com.ph.