Ibarra and Simoun
Dr timeless novels are reimagined as ballet performances this month for Ballet Philippines’ 47th Season
elease your inner patriot this month as the back-toback shows of Crisostomo Ibarra and Simoun come next in line for Ballet Philippines’ 47th season. Featuring the protagonists of Dr Jose Rizal’s two epic novels, Noli Me Tangere (1887) and El Filibusterismo (1891), the two Filipino classics are gracefully presented as ballet productions supported by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Both novels illustrated the struggles of Filipinos during the Spanish colonial era under the rule of corrupt and abusive government officials and friars. Crisostomo Ibarra, the hero of Noli, stood firm by his ideals on top of striving against the injustice that the friars did to his father and the love of his life, Maria Clara. Simoun, on the other hand, continued the journey of Ibarra as the subversive and revolutionary lead of El Filibusterismo who sought revenge for those who wronged him.
Ballet Philippines originally introduced Crisostomo Ibarra in 2010 while this is Simoun’s first appearance. Both performances feature original libretto, choreographed by Paul Alexander Morales with music by Jed Balsamo. Ibarra takes the stage for the matinée and Simoun in the gala.
Don’t miss these third and fourth instalments of Wings, Ballet Philippines’ 47th Season. Crisostomo Ibarra and Simoun run end-to-end from 21 to 23 October at the CCP Main Theatre. Tickets are available at ticketworld.com.ph