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Experience the enchantment of Christmas in the Philippines as the city welcomes back the much-anticipated return of Christmas traditions. Emerging from the shadows of a three-year pandemic, the holiday spirit is reemerging with energy and vibrancy.

Among the revitalized traditions is the iconic performance of “The Nutcracker” by the Philippine Ballet Theatre. A timeless classic, this breathtaking production, choreographed by Gelsey Kirkland and Michael Chernov, is set to grace the stage on December 16-17, 2023, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Generously supported by institutions like the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Manila Times, Philippine Airlines, San Miguel Corporation, Sunlife, and NYXSYS Philippines, the ballet promises a triumphant comeback.

Artistic Director Ronilo Jaynario, eager to make up for lost time, has infused spicy additions to the choreography, creating a whimsical experience. With a cast of over a hundred artists of different ages, the performance guarantees a mesmerizing journey set against the backdrop of sparkling snowflakes and the magical land of sweets, accompanied by the enchanting music of Tchaikovsky.

The Nutcracker Ballet, originating from E. T. A. Hoffmann’s “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” in 1816, unfolds the magical encounters of Clara in a realm of dolls and sweetness. The leads, portrayed by Mathew Davo as the Nutcracker Prince and Jessa Tangalin as the Sugarplum Fairy, along with Clara played alternately by Sophie Tiangco and Therese Riego, promise a spellbinding spectacle.

Notably, the cast features soloists and company dancers who were once Nutcracker kids in previous pre-pandemic productions, symbolizing a beautiful journey of growth alongside the ballet. This season’s offering marks a fantastic return to tradition for both the performers and the audience, evoking nostalgia for those who have cherished the Philippine Ballet Theatre as a beloved holiday tradition.

Don’t miss the magical performances at the Newport Performing Arts Theater on:

• December 16, 2023 (Saturday) | 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm
• December 17, 2023 (Sunday) | 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm

Secure your tickets at the Ticketworld website here.

For ballet students, a special 30% discount awaits the December 17, 2023, 7:30 pm show, applicable for SVIP, VIP, and GOLD sections. To avail the discount, contact the PBT office at 8671-1697/0968-870-8887 or send a DM to PBT’s official social media accounts.