An enchanting fusion of art and ballet

Amid the city’s holiday frenzy and “carmageddon,” Ballet Philippines enchanted the audience with a gala night performance of “Christmas Fairytales” at The Theatre at Solaire in Parañaque City. Prior to the much-awaited show, a unique exhibition dubbed “Ballet in Pintô” — a collaboration between Ballet Philippines and Pintô Art Museum — was put up at The Theatre at Solaire Lobby.

Spearheaded by Pintô Art Museum founder Dr. Joven Cuanang and curated by celebrated artist Ferdie Montemayor, the exhibition showcased 64 art pieces born from a special sitting session held at the museum’s Academy Room, where contemporary Filipino artists captured the ephemeral beauty of ballet movements. The synergy between performing arts and visual arts was evident, creating a magical prelude to the mesmerizing show.

Dr. Jimmy Laya and US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson with Ballet Philippines president Kathleen Liechtenstein and husband, Lior Liechtenstein

The evening unfolded with the stylish elite mingling with art aficionados, diplomatic corps, and beneficiaries from Ballet Philippines’ outreach programs. As the curtain rose on “Christmas Fairytales,” the audience was transported into the world of imagination with the main character, Tala, weaving together iconic fairy tales in a quest for happy endings.

Ballet Philippines artistic director Mikhail “Misha” Martynyuk’s original libretto brought a distinctively unique story where good triumphs over evil, reviving the beautiful tradition of spending the holidays at the ballet infused with art, good company, and a heart for advocacy.

Of joy and generosity

The always lovely and compassionate Maritess Pineda organized a birthday fellowship at Greenhills West in San Juan City. The event marked another year of Maritess’s life and also became a beacon of compassion and generosity.

Catholic Women’s Club president Mimi Valerio and past president and celebrator Maritess Pineda with Regina Paterno and Mardy Aguilar

In lieu of traditional gifts, guests gave monetary donations to the Catholic Women’s Club (CWC), with the organization directing their support toward the noble cause of the Healing Servants Foundation Inc. This intimate gathering was indeed a seamless blend of warmth, celebration, and charitable spirit, leaving lasting memories and a positive impact on the community.

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You may email me at jjlitton@indanet.com. Follow me on Facebook and YouTube: Johnny Litton by Jayelles PH and on Instagram: @jayellesph.