Photo Exclusive: In Rehearsal with Ballet Philippines’ ANTING

BP's latest production is a full-length ballet, which features choreography by BP Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales, BP Associate Artistic Director Christine Crame, BP alumnus and e-Dance Theater Artistic Director Gerald Mercado, and Airdance Artistic Director Ava Villanueva-Ong. These dance directors have split up amongst themselves the choreography requirements of the four-part ballet.

Villanueva-Ong choreographs the first part, "Nang Wala Pang Mundo," which tells about the three personas of God. Its dialogues, which consist of oraciones, are set to music.

Crame takes on the second part, "Sinotris Gentillorum," which presents a gumamela caelis, the female counterpart of Infinito Dios. Inspired by the Blessed Virgin Mary, a young woman brings on stage a taladro, a cloth with magical figures, letters printed on it; the taladro comes to life, and interacts with the bewitched figures.

Mercado choreographs the third part, "Ang Krus Ng Alitagtag," a 50-year-old crucifix originally owned by the masters of the Katutubong Karunungan. This piece is a retelling of the legend of an enchanted tree that was cut down, but mysteriously formed two huge crosses from its dead branches.

Morales tackles the finale, "Haring Bakal," which showcases the warrior rituals and movements of the Maranaws, Maguindanaos, and Tausugs.

"Anting" promises its audience an illuminating experience, and a deeper understanding of history and tradition.

For tickets and more information, contact BP at (632) 5511003, www.ballet.ph; or TicketWorld at (632) 891-9999, www.ticketworld.com.ph.

Photos by Jory Rivera; photos show Paul Alexander Morales, Karmela Cortez, Marvin Arizo, Madge Reyes, and Timothy Cabrera, among others.