October has been chosen by the founders of the annual event as the official month to celebrate the occasion. And this year, it will be on the 19th.

This year The Australian Ballet, Bolshoi Ballet, and the Royal Opera House will stream a selection of videos throughout the day, from rehearsals, discussion, classes, and of course, amazing performances. Viewers will be given a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes and meet key figures of the industry, from ballet’s biggest stars to upcoming performers. This year’s initiative comes with a special message of resilience despite the global health crisis, not only of this centuries-old tradition but also of its artists and audiences.

The invite is extended to our homes, where we can watch and participate in the festivities via TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook—a thoughtful and innovative nod to the signs of the times. The team expects this year’s viewers to break 2019’s record of a combined 300 million views across all platforms.

Kevin O’Hare, Director of the Royal Ballet, has said in interviews, “This year’s celebration of our cherished art form will be more important and meaningful than ever, as friends and colleagues around the world return to the stage and the studio, many still with great difficulty.  I hope World Ballet Day continues to provide dancers and ballet lovers across the globe with a sense of solidarity – and at the same time introduces a new generation to the beauty and inspiration of ballet that has sustained and nourished our audience members over the past 18 months.”

Another means of celebrating this event is by learning more about ballet from watching performances and getting to know local artists. Among famed Filipino artists of the genre who have exhibited world-class excellence are Elwince Magbitang, Christine Rocas, Candice Adea, and Marcelino Libao. These four exceptionally skilled dancers have exclusively trained in the Philippines. And not only do they stand as testaments of Filipino artistic genius but also of our local schools’ capabilities of scouting and developing raw talent. Hard work, grit, and the willpower to confidently pursue their passions have been hallmarks of their stellar careers.

Elwince Magbitang (Apprentice, American Ballet Theatre) 

Having started at a young age, Elwince first learned the art of ballet at nine years old. He was a CENTEX scholar since kindergarten and was given the chance to hone his talent with STEPS Studio. When a golden opportunity of dancing with leads from American Ballet Theatre came up, he seized the opportunity with high marks, earning not only the nods of the dance company and his benefactors but also an eventual scholarship with its prestigious school.

Christine Rocas (Company Artist, The Joffrey Ballet)

A multi-decorated and highly-skilled dancer, Christine has traveled across the globe and exhibited her talent in many stages. With Ballet Manila she has had the opportunity to play plum roles. Since joining The Joffrey Ballet in 2005, she has had the privilege of performing in other coveted roles. Among these shows include titular roles in Cinderella, Romeo and Juliet, and Giselle. 

Candice Adea (Soloist, West Australian Ballet)

Candice is a multi-awarded dancer who earned the distinction of being the first Filipina to win at the Helsinki International Ballet Competition, taking 1st Place, Senior Women’s Division in 2012. Before West Australian Ballet, she was a Principal Dancer and Resident Guest Artist for Ballet Philippines, as well as a Soloist for Hong Kong Ballet. West Australian Ballet recently launched Coppelia with Candice playing the lead.

Marcelino Libao (Dancer and Choreographer, The Hamburg Ballet)

Another STEPS graduate, Marcelino Libao, who at 15 in 2008, is the first to compete at the Prix de Lausanne and make it to the finals. For his acknowledged talent in the competition, a slew of professional ballet schools across the world offered mentorship. He then chose Hamburg Ballet, helmed by the Jury Head of the Prix de Lausanne, John Neumeier. Aside from an extensive list of noteworthy performances, he has also ventured to choreographing, having done at least 10 for Hamburg Ballet. Today, he extends his talent to philanthropy, establishing STEPPING FORWARD—a series of classes where proceeds directly go to his chosen advocacies.

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As the celebration nears, we invite everyone to join us in the digital festivities by tuning in to its various online offerings. By watching these performances, we pay tribute to the hard work of many artistic performers who have combined their talents to produce these glorious showcases. And at a time when inspiration is most needed, even a single performance can uplift the soul. For a more detailed list of the World Ballet Day events, visit the website at worldballetday.com. Happy World Ballet Day to everyone from the Samsung Performing Arts Theater!

For more information, contact inquire.cpat@ayalaland.com.ph or call via (+63917) 804.9336.