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Kenny Rogers Roasters’ new Awesome Snacks!



Get your snack game on with Kenny Rogers Roasters’ NEW Awesome Snacks!

 

For many Filipinos who love to eat, three meals a day simply aren’t enough – we happily have snacks for midmorning and a merienda in the afternoon. This is because having a light but delicious snack is perfect to get us through the hours while waiting for the next full meal. 

Thankfully, Kenny Rogers Roasters – a brand known for its exciting & deliciously healthy innovations – continues to excite and satisfy the Filipino palate with the introduction of its NEW Awesome Snacks – a fun snacking experience customers will surely love! 


Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Mac and Cheese Burger


Available in all Kenny Rogers Roasters stores nationwide starting March 18, 2024, customers can choose from various deliciously healthy snack selections. There’s the Mac and Cheese Burger (P260), a fusion of their best-selling mac and cheese layered with grilled beef patty, mayo, lettuce, and tomato sandwiched between slightly roasted buns. For those who are always on-the-go - the Nacho Wrap (P235) is perfect for you! It’s made up of freshly prepared tomatoes, onion, lettuce, and chicken with a spread of yogurt and salsa and a layer of colorful nacho chips wrapped in a flour tortilla. It’s the ideal choice for a delicious and convenient on-the-go snack. 


Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Nacho Wrap

Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Truffle Pasta

Another snack offering is the Wrap and Roll Steak (P260) made of grilled steak slices, romaine lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms mixed with sweet honey mustard dressing and wrapped in a soft tortilla. This snack comes with chips and a drink! Another Awesome Snack is the Truffle Pasta – al dente pasta shells with creamy truffle sauce and served with two pieces of toasted garlic bread. 

Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Wrap and Roll Steak

Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Stuffed Baked Rolls

Finally, completing the lineup are the Stuffed Baked Rolls (P180). These rolls come in three awesome flavors: Spam, Bacon, and Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll; Hawaiian Stuffed Baked Roll; and Spinach Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll. The Spam, Bacon, and CheeseStuffed Baked Roll features a soft dough generously packed with savory spam luncheon meat, bacon slices, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The Hawaiian Stuffed Baked Roll consists of a combination of ham, juicy pineapples, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, all nestled within a tender roll. Lastly, the Spinach Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll offers a creamy and savory filling comprised of spinach, mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheeses, creating a truly irresistible snack.

But aside from these offerings, Kenny Rogers Roasters also has many other snack options that customers can enjoy all day, every day! From savory wraps and burgers to mouthwatering pasta dishes, our extensive snack menu caters to every palate, ensuring a delightful snacking experience for all.

So make your snack time awesome with the new snack selections of Kenny Rogers Roasters available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery through www.kennyrogersdelivery.com.ph, hotline: 8-555-9000, or via Grab Food and Food Panda

For more updates, follow Kenny Rogers Roasters’ official social media pages: @KennyRogersPH on Facebook, @kennyrogersph on Instagram and TikTok, and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/KennyRogersRoasters).


To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.
  • Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Get your snack game on with Kenny Rogers Roasters’ NEW Awesome Snacks!

Kenny Rogers Roasters’ new Awesome Snacks!



Get your snack game on with Kenny Rogers Roasters’ NEW Awesome Snacks!

 

For many Filipinos who love to eat, three meals a day simply aren’t enough – we happily have snacks for midmorning and a merienda in the afternoon. This is because having a light but delicious snack is perfect to get us through the hours while waiting for the next full meal. 

Thankfully, Kenny Rogers Roasters – a brand known for its exciting & deliciously healthy innovations – continues to excite and satisfy the Filipino palate with the introduction of its NEW Awesome Snacks – a fun snacking experience customers will surely love! 


Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Mac and Cheese Burger


Available in all Kenny Rogers Roasters stores nationwide starting March 18, 2024, customers can choose from various deliciously healthy snack selections. There’s the Mac and Cheese Burger (P260), a fusion of their best-selling mac and cheese layered with grilled beef patty, mayo, lettuce, and tomato sandwiched between slightly roasted buns. For those who are always on-the-go - the Nacho Wrap (P235) is perfect for you! It’s made up of freshly prepared tomatoes, onion, lettuce, and chicken with a spread of yogurt and salsa and a layer of colorful nacho chips wrapped in a flour tortilla. It’s the ideal choice for a delicious and convenient on-the-go snack. 


Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Nacho Wrap

Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Truffle Pasta

Another snack offering is the Wrap and Roll Steak (P260) made of grilled steak slices, romaine lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms mixed with sweet honey mustard dressing and wrapped in a soft tortilla. This snack comes with chips and a drink! Another Awesome Snack is the Truffle Pasta – al dente pasta shells with creamy truffle sauce and served with two pieces of toasted garlic bread. 

Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Wrap and Roll Steak

Kenny Rogers Roasters’ Stuffed Baked Rolls

Finally, completing the lineup are the Stuffed Baked Rolls (P180). These rolls come in three awesome flavors: Spam, Bacon, and Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll; Hawaiian Stuffed Baked Roll; and Spinach Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll. The Spam, Bacon, and CheeseStuffed Baked Roll features a soft dough generously packed with savory spam luncheon meat, bacon slices, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The Hawaiian Stuffed Baked Roll consists of a combination of ham, juicy pineapples, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, all nestled within a tender roll. Lastly, the Spinach Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll offers a creamy and savory filling comprised of spinach, mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheeses, creating a truly irresistible snack.

But aside from these offerings, Kenny Rogers Roasters also has many other snack options that customers can enjoy all day, every day! From savory wraps and burgers to mouthwatering pasta dishes, our extensive snack menu caters to every palate, ensuring a delightful snacking experience for all.

So make your snack time awesome with the new snack selections of Kenny Rogers Roasters available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery through www.kennyrogersdelivery.com.ph, hotline: 8-555-9000, or via Grab Food and Food Panda

For more updates, follow Kenny Rogers Roasters’ official social media pages: @KennyRogersPH on Facebook, @kennyrogersph on Instagram and TikTok, and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/KennyRogersRoasters).


To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.


Give the gift of ginhawa to your loved ones with Generika Drugstore’s MEDPadala


In the Philippines, where families are often separated by distance, sending gifts has always been one of the ways to express love and care.  This is true for many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), separated from their families in the Philippines. Similarly, this sentiment extends to individuals who choose to work away from their hometown, whether relocating to Manila from their province and vice versa, creating distance away from their loved ones.

Meeting the challenge of selecting a gift that seamlessly combines thoughtfulness and practicality has been simplified with Generika Drugstore's MEDPadala, an electronic gift certificate (e-GC) designed for the purchase of medicines and other essential medical supplies within the Generika Drugstore network.

With MEDPadala, Filipinos now have the power to send the gift of ginhawa to their families who are miles away. This can be sent as a gift whether birthdays, holidays, or a simple yet profound expression to say “I care about you.” 

Generika Drugstore MEDPadala Infographic
Generika Drugstore MEDPadala Infographic

Generika Drugstore's commitment to affordability ensures that your MEDPadala goes a long way, allowing you to make a significant impact on your loved ones' health without breaking the bank. The savings of up to 85% on Actimed Generics and Nutrawell Supplements versus their branded counterparts mean that even a modest amount can provide a substantial supply of healthcare essentials.

Buying or sending MEDPadala can also be done with these three simple steps:

Step 1: Buy the MEDPadala e-GC at any Generika Drugstore branch or visit medpadala.com.ph.

Step 2: Send the MEDPadala code and PIN via SMS or email.

Step 3: Present the code and PIN to any Generika Drugstore branch to purchase medicines or medical supplies.

Let your loved ones know that you’re thinking about them by sending them a MEDPadala. For more information, visit medpadala.com.ph

 

To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.
  • Thursday, March 14, 2024

Give the gift of ginhawa to your loved ones with Generika Drugstore’s MEDPadala



Give the gift of ginhawa to your loved ones with Generika Drugstore’s MEDPadala


In the Philippines, where families are often separated by distance, sending gifts has always been one of the ways to express love and care.  This is true for many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), separated from their families in the Philippines. Similarly, this sentiment extends to individuals who choose to work away from their hometown, whether relocating to Manila from their province and vice versa, creating distance away from their loved ones.

Meeting the challenge of selecting a gift that seamlessly combines thoughtfulness and practicality has been simplified with Generika Drugstore's MEDPadala, an electronic gift certificate (e-GC) designed for the purchase of medicines and other essential medical supplies within the Generika Drugstore network.

With MEDPadala, Filipinos now have the power to send the gift of ginhawa to their families who are miles away. This can be sent as a gift whether birthdays, holidays, or a simple yet profound expression to say “I care about you.” 

Generika Drugstore MEDPadala Infographic
Generika Drugstore MEDPadala Infographic

Generika Drugstore's commitment to affordability ensures that your MEDPadala goes a long way, allowing you to make a significant impact on your loved ones' health without breaking the bank. The savings of up to 85% on Actimed Generics and Nutrawell Supplements versus their branded counterparts mean that even a modest amount can provide a substantial supply of healthcare essentials.

Buying or sending MEDPadala can also be done with these three simple steps:

Step 1: Buy the MEDPadala e-GC at any Generika Drugstore branch or visit medpadala.com.ph.

Step 2: Send the MEDPadala code and PIN via SMS or email.

Step 3: Present the code and PIN to any Generika Drugstore branch to purchase medicines or medical supplies.

Let your loved ones know that you’re thinking about them by sending them a MEDPadala. For more information, visit medpadala.com.ph

 

To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

Romance, adventure and comedy in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire 

Audiences can look forward to a swashbuckling adventure that highlights the excellent skills of its male and female dancers in this colorful, dynamic and entertaining opening salvo for the company’s 26th performance season.

Principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro as Medora, Mark Sumaylo as Conrad, Joshua Enciso as Ali, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire
 

Principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro as Medora, Mark Sumaylo as Conrad, Joshua Enciso as Ali, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire

An exciting tale that takes audiences on a journey to the Mediterranean coast, a colorful bazaar, a mysterious pirate’s cave,  and a magnificent pasha’s palace -- narrated through excellent ballet dancing.  These and more await theater goers who will come and watch Ballet Manila’s production of Le Corsaire (The Pirate) at the Aliw Theater on February 24, 2024 at 8pm and February 25, 2024 at 5pm.

Le Corsaire centers on the story of Conrad who captains a pirate ship with his faithful crew, sailing across the high seas on a mission to rescue his love, Medora, from the hands of Lankendem, a slave trader who is selling girls in a busy market place.

While the story is a ballet classic, Ballet Manilaartistic director and chief executive officer Lisa MacujaElizalde,who has portrayed the role of Medora countless times, confessed she has always wanted to re-work Le Corsaire. This is because from her own experience in dancing the role of Medora, she always found her character to be a damsel in distress. She shared, “I always thought her character to be a bit weak, waiting for Conrad to save her; even getting captured twice!”


In Ballet Manila’s re-telling the story, MacujaElizalde puts forward an empowered Medora, putting the spotlighton the character’s inner courage to endure challenges, all in the name of love.

More importantly, for MacujaElizalde, the main draw and importance of re-telling the story was giving all the main characters their moments to shine.

Principal dancers Mark Sumaylo as Conrad, Joshua Enciso as Ali, and Romeo Peralta as Birbanto, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire

“There are many principal characters that will get to show off their technical and virtuosic feats as the ballet unfolds. The ballet doesn't just depend on Medora and Conrad or on one principal couple, unlike Don Quixote or Swan Lake for example. Le Corsaire features Medora, Conrad, Gulnara, Lankadem, Ali and Birbanto - five principal roles.”

Although the story centers on these five important roles, she also puts the focus on the supporting characters who make the story just as impactful and memorable. For one, a wealthy pasha (high-ranking officer), whom Lankendem sold Medora to, adds comedic moments to the story.

The master choreographer in Macuja-Elizalde has also given beautiful soloist roles for three ballerinas in The Odalisques as well as build up strong male dancers as the pirates, and a beautiful corps de ballet in The Living Garden Naila Waltz.

The fresh take on Le Corsaire also includes changing the order of the main dances to build up the story further. “I felt that there should be a building up of the main dances – The Odalisques coming in the third act for me was a bit anti-climactic.”

Her version will have heroes flying through the air in their first entrance instead of the original version where they are seen lying on the ground post shipwreck.

A romantic moment between Conrad (Mark Sumaylo) and Medora (Abigail Oliveiro, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire

“This is why I am very excited to be able to do exactly this – create my own version of Le Corsaire,” she added. “It’s a ballet that has everything. A journey to the Mediterranean coast, a bazaar, a pirate’s cave, a pasha’s palace. It has something for everyone!”

One of the strengths of Ballet Manila has always been its male and female corps – and she feels that they have once again highlighted this in Le Corsaire.

“Although it’s a very physically demanding ballet, it is also very exciting, dynamic and entertaining. It’s a ballet for the whole family to enjoy!” she promised. 

For tickets, visit Ticketworld (https://bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMLeCorsaire2024)  or call 8891 9999. To know more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph


To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

Romance, adventure and comedy in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire


Romance, adventure and comedy in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire 

Audiences can look forward to a swashbuckling adventure that highlights the excellent skills of its male and female dancers in this colorful, dynamic and entertaining opening salvo for the company’s 26th performance season.

Principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro as Medora, Mark Sumaylo as Conrad, Joshua Enciso as Ali, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire
 

Principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro as Medora, Mark Sumaylo as Conrad, Joshua Enciso as Ali, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire

An exciting tale that takes audiences on a journey to the Mediterranean coast, a colorful bazaar, a mysterious pirate’s cave,  and a magnificent pasha’s palace -- narrated through excellent ballet dancing.  These and more await theater goers who will come and watch Ballet Manila’s production of Le Corsaire (The Pirate) at the Aliw Theater on February 24, 2024 at 8pm and February 25, 2024 at 5pm.

Le Corsaire centers on the story of Conrad who captains a pirate ship with his faithful crew, sailing across the high seas on a mission to rescue his love, Medora, from the hands of Lankendem, a slave trader who is selling girls in a busy market place.

While the story is a ballet classic, Ballet Manilaartistic director and chief executive officer Lisa MacujaElizalde,who has portrayed the role of Medora countless times, confessed she has always wanted to re-work Le Corsaire. This is because from her own experience in dancing the role of Medora, she always found her character to be a damsel in distress. She shared, “I always thought her character to be a bit weak, waiting for Conrad to save her; even getting captured twice!”


In Ballet Manila’s re-telling the story, MacujaElizalde puts forward an empowered Medora, putting the spotlighton the character’s inner courage to endure challenges, all in the name of love.

More importantly, for MacujaElizalde, the main draw and importance of re-telling the story was giving all the main characters their moments to shine.

Principal dancers Mark Sumaylo as Conrad, Joshua Enciso as Ali, and Romeo Peralta as Birbanto, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire

“There are many principal characters that will get to show off their technical and virtuosic feats as the ballet unfolds. The ballet doesn't just depend on Medora and Conrad or on one principal couple, unlike Don Quixote or Swan Lake for example. Le Corsaire features Medora, Conrad, Gulnara, Lankadem, Ali and Birbanto - five principal roles.”

Although the story centers on these five important roles, she also puts the focus on the supporting characters who make the story just as impactful and memorable. For one, a wealthy pasha (high-ranking officer), whom Lankendem sold Medora to, adds comedic moments to the story.

The master choreographer in Macuja-Elizalde has also given beautiful soloist roles for three ballerinas in The Odalisques as well as build up strong male dancers as the pirates, and a beautiful corps de ballet in The Living Garden Naila Waltz.

The fresh take on Le Corsaire also includes changing the order of the main dances to build up the story further. “I felt that there should be a building up of the main dances – The Odalisques coming in the third act for me was a bit anti-climactic.”

Her version will have heroes flying through the air in their first entrance instead of the original version where they are seen lying on the ground post shipwreck.

A romantic moment between Conrad (Mark Sumaylo) and Medora (Abigail Oliveiro, in Ballet Manila’s Le Corsaire

“This is why I am very excited to be able to do exactly this – create my own version of Le Corsaire,” she added. “It’s a ballet that has everything. A journey to the Mediterranean coast, a bazaar, a pirate’s cave, a pasha’s palace. It has something for everyone!”

One of the strengths of Ballet Manila has always been its male and female corps – and she feels that they have once again highlighted this in Le Corsaire.

“Although it’s a very physically demanding ballet, it is also very exciting, dynamic and entertaining. It’s a ballet for the whole family to enjoy!” she promised. 

For tickets, visit Ticketworld (https://bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMLeCorsaire2024)  or call 8891 9999. To know more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph


To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.




Well-loved masterpieces and magical Filipino stories come to life in Ballet Manila’s 26th Performance Season


“A showcase of technical and virtuosic feats’ is how world-renowned prima ballerina and Ballet Manila artistic director and chief executive officer Lisa Macuja Elizalde describes the opening salvo of  the company’s 26th performance season, billed as “Ballet Masterpieces,” owing to the excellent lineup of shows that feature two classical ballet productions, along with the enchanting and timeless appeal of Filipino literary classics.





The season is set to open with the propitious staging of Le Corsaire (The Pirate) as rechoreographed by Macuja Elizalde herself. It will be staged on February 24, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. and February 25, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. at Ballet Manila’s home, the Aliw Theater in Pasay City.

Snaps from Le Corsaire



For Macuja Elizalde, creating her version Le Corsaire has always been a dream: “I have always wanted to re-work Le Corsaire. When I was dancing the role of Medora, I found her character to be a damsel in distress waiting for Conrad to save her; getting captured twice. I wanted to change the order of the main dances in Le Corsaire as well, because I always felt that there should be a build-up to the main dances.”

She also notes that part of the charm of Le Corsaire is that all main characters are given the chance to shine: “For me, the main draw and importance of staging a Le Corsaire is the fact that there are many principal characters that all have their respective times to shine and show off technical and virtuosic feats as the ballet unfolds.”

From the swashbuckling tale of romantic adventure, Ballet Manila brings well-loved Filipino tales to life  with Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang on May 11, 2024 at 8:00 p.m., and May 12 & 18, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. For this special production,  Ballet Manila has partnered with Anvil Publishing with an aim to keep the legacy of renowned Filipino writer Severino Reyes,  alive.   The ballet versions are based on multi-awarded children’s book writer Christine Bellen Ang’s retelling of Severino Reyes’ stories.

The idea to create a ballet from the Anvil Publishing books of Mga Kuwento Ni Lola Basyang came about during my children's book fair,” she recalls.  “I saw the entire collection of children's books displayed in their school library, and I bought all 12. Then I called a meeting with my artistic team. I put all 12 books on the table and told them to choose one to make into a ballet.”

Finding all stories to be worth sharing to a wider audience, the artistic team had a difficult time selecting only three stories but eventually ended up with those whose themes centered on romance, adventure and comedy. Thus, Ang Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang was born.



Anvil Publishing president Xandra Ramos Padilla considers Ballet Manila’s staging of the Lola Basyang series as an excellent opportunity to instill pride among local theatergoers. “We hope it reaches and inspires more people to appreciate and support different forms of local art and culture. An original Filipino story performed through dance is something that the Philippines can be proud of,” she says, adding that Lola Basyang's stories are “well and widely-loved by generations because they teach values and help instill a child's love for reading.

“The whimsical illustrations in the picture books transport you to magical worlds—a visual spectacle successfully translated onstage by Ballet Manila,” added Padilla.


Adding even more buzz to the show is celebrated performing artist Mitch Valdes who will be taking on the role of Lola Basyang. Having been active in the local theater and entertainment scene for over 50 years, the seasoned comic-singer-actress has played highly-acclaimed roles in such well-publicized productions as Lunes, Martes, Miyerkules, Huwebes, Biyernes, Sabado, Linggo where she won a Gawad Urian Award for Best Supporting Actress, and in the musicale Katy! for which she is remembered for her  outstanding performance as Katy dela Cruz.  She has also starred in highly-acclaimed movies such as Oro, Plata, Mata; Manila by Night; and Bulaklak sa City Jail.


This time, audiences will see her perform her version of Lola Basyang with her signature wit and humor. Asked how she will make her character different, Mitch gleefully replies: “I will ask Lisa (Macuja) if Lola Basyang can get up from her rocking chair for some choreography. Maybe up on pointe for five seconds!”


On a more serious note, the multi-awarded comedienne and actress extolls the concept of having local classics featured along world-renowned masterpieces. “We’re familiar with all the international classics but this one is a rare chance to see one of our beloved folklores come to life in classical ballet. It will be beautiful because the story is one of our own.”

Completing the 26th Performance Season is Giselle, an ethereal, romantic ballet that tackles love, tragedy and loss, and will be performed on August 31, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. until September 1, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.



“I think calling our 2024 performance season “Ballet Masterpieces” is spot on because of the ballets that are featured. Le Corsaire and Giselle are both full-length classical ballet masterpieces, while Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang will feature three stories in one show. I love how our season will have two major classics!” she shared.

For the rest of the year, Ballet Manila is set to continue to showcase its unwavering artistry and excellence with the world premiere of Gerardo Francisco’s and Martin Lawrance’s  cutting-edge version of Florante at Laura  on October 12, 2024 at 8:00 p.m., October 13 & 19, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

Through its continuing partnership with Aréte Ateneo, audiences will get to enjoy Gerardo Francisco’s iteration of the Filipino classical tale Ang Ibong Adarna, at the Areté Theater in November 2024.

Finally, the ballet company continues to celebrate its tradition of bringing the spirit of Christmas spirit alive through its Holiday Cheer Series. This year, the young and young at heart will get to enjoy Lisa Macuja-Elizalde’s take on Snow White and will be staged on December 25 to 30, 2024.

“We hope that by the end of our 26th Performance Season, the Filipino audience will re-discover and have a newfound appreciation for classical ballet as well as our vibrant Filipino culture through the shows that we have worked very hard to prepare,” said Lisa Macuja-Elizalde.


All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph. Direct link to buy tickets here : https://bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMLeCorsaire2024


To know more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph



Thanks for reading my blog and feel free to leave comments.
To get the latest update, follow me on my social media accounts.

Ballet Manila in 2024 | Ballet Manila 26th Performance Season




Well-loved masterpieces and magical Filipino stories come to life in Ballet Manila’s 26th Performance Season


“A showcase of technical and virtuosic feats’ is how world-renowned prima ballerina and Ballet Manila artistic director and chief executive officer Lisa Macuja Elizalde describes the opening salvo of  the company’s 26th performance season, billed as “Ballet Masterpieces,” owing to the excellent lineup of shows that feature two classical ballet productions, along with the enchanting and timeless appeal of Filipino literary classics.





The season is set to open with the propitious staging of Le Corsaire (The Pirate) as rechoreographed by Macuja Elizalde herself. It will be staged on February 24, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. and February 25, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. at Ballet Manila’s home, the Aliw Theater in Pasay City.

Snaps from Le Corsaire



For Macuja Elizalde, creating her version Le Corsaire has always been a dream: “I have always wanted to re-work Le Corsaire. When I was dancing the role of Medora, I found her character to be a damsel in distress waiting for Conrad to save her; getting captured twice. I wanted to change the order of the main dances in Le Corsaire as well, because I always felt that there should be a build-up to the main dances.”

She also notes that part of the charm of Le Corsaire is that all main characters are given the chance to shine: “For me, the main draw and importance of staging a Le Corsaire is the fact that there are many principal characters that all have their respective times to shine and show off technical and virtuosic feats as the ballet unfolds.”

From the swashbuckling tale of romantic adventure, Ballet Manila brings well-loved Filipino tales to life  with Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang on May 11, 2024 at 8:00 p.m., and May 12 & 18, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. For this special production,  Ballet Manila has partnered with Anvil Publishing with an aim to keep the legacy of renowned Filipino writer Severino Reyes,  alive.   The ballet versions are based on multi-awarded children’s book writer Christine Bellen Ang’s retelling of Severino Reyes’ stories.

The idea to create a ballet from the Anvil Publishing books of Mga Kuwento Ni Lola Basyang came about during my children's book fair,” she recalls.  “I saw the entire collection of children's books displayed in their school library, and I bought all 12. Then I called a meeting with my artistic team. I put all 12 books on the table and told them to choose one to make into a ballet.”

Finding all stories to be worth sharing to a wider audience, the artistic team had a difficult time selecting only three stories but eventually ended up with those whose themes centered on romance, adventure and comedy. Thus, Ang Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang was born.



Anvil Publishing president Xandra Ramos Padilla considers Ballet Manila’s staging of the Lola Basyang series as an excellent opportunity to instill pride among local theatergoers. “We hope it reaches and inspires more people to appreciate and support different forms of local art and culture. An original Filipino story performed through dance is something that the Philippines can be proud of,” she says, adding that Lola Basyang's stories are “well and widely-loved by generations because they teach values and help instill a child's love for reading.

“The whimsical illustrations in the picture books transport you to magical worlds—a visual spectacle successfully translated onstage by Ballet Manila,” added Padilla.


Adding even more buzz to the show is celebrated performing artist Mitch Valdes who will be taking on the role of Lola Basyang. Having been active in the local theater and entertainment scene for over 50 years, the seasoned comic-singer-actress has played highly-acclaimed roles in such well-publicized productions as Lunes, Martes, Miyerkules, Huwebes, Biyernes, Sabado, Linggo where she won a Gawad Urian Award for Best Supporting Actress, and in the musicale Katy! for which she is remembered for her  outstanding performance as Katy dela Cruz.  She has also starred in highly-acclaimed movies such as Oro, Plata, Mata; Manila by Night; and Bulaklak sa City Jail.


This time, audiences will see her perform her version of Lola Basyang with her signature wit and humor. Asked how she will make her character different, Mitch gleefully replies: “I will ask Lisa (Macuja) if Lola Basyang can get up from her rocking chair for some choreography. Maybe up on pointe for five seconds!”


On a more serious note, the multi-awarded comedienne and actress extolls the concept of having local classics featured along world-renowned masterpieces. “We’re familiar with all the international classics but this one is a rare chance to see one of our beloved folklores come to life in classical ballet. It will be beautiful because the story is one of our own.”

Completing the 26th Performance Season is Giselle, an ethereal, romantic ballet that tackles love, tragedy and loss, and will be performed on August 31, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. until September 1, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.



“I think calling our 2024 performance season “Ballet Masterpieces” is spot on because of the ballets that are featured. Le Corsaire and Giselle are both full-length classical ballet masterpieces, while Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang will feature three stories in one show. I love how our season will have two major classics!” she shared.

For the rest of the year, Ballet Manila is set to continue to showcase its unwavering artistry and excellence with the world premiere of Gerardo Francisco’s and Martin Lawrance’s  cutting-edge version of Florante at Laura  on October 12, 2024 at 8:00 p.m., October 13 & 19, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

Through its continuing partnership with Aréte Ateneo, audiences will get to enjoy Gerardo Francisco’s iteration of the Filipino classical tale Ang Ibong Adarna, at the Areté Theater in November 2024.

Finally, the ballet company continues to celebrate its tradition of bringing the spirit of Christmas spirit alive through its Holiday Cheer Series. This year, the young and young at heart will get to enjoy Lisa Macuja-Elizalde’s take on Snow White and will be staged on December 25 to 30, 2024.

“We hope that by the end of our 26th Performance Season, the Filipino audience will re-discover and have a newfound appreciation for classical ballet as well as our vibrant Filipino culture through the shows that we have worked very hard to prepare,” said Lisa Macuja-Elizalde.


All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph. Direct link to buy tickets here : https://bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMLeCorsaire2024


To know more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph



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The STI Talent Search is one of my favorite events to cover as a blogger. I love seeing students showcasing their talents plus field trip mode on the side. Nostalgic feels ang mommy nyo and feeling belong sa younger crowds. Kidding aside and back to being a mommy, I have a 16-year-old son and soon-to-be college na. (Ayan, na-age reveal tuloy) Napag-uusapan na namin ang ang future nya for college like what course to take and where to enroll? And STI is on our list. Pano ba naman kasi STI College 40 years na, plus promotes holistic education too with the previous STI Talent Search 2023-2024 in a Nationwide Talent Celebration.

 

STI College is Committed to producing well-rounded and future-ready graduates and remains dedicated to fostering the holistic growth and development of its students through its diverse co-curricular and extracurricular activities.

Among these initiatives is the longstanding STI Talent Search, which, for the School Year 2023-2024, has made a grand return at the Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna. This event serves as a platform to empower STI students and showcase their talents both within and beyond their academic pursuits.










Hataw Sayaw 2023 National Champion 
Project Atmos | STI College Ormoc STI

"For 40 years, STI College has been nurturing students’ potential through academic and extracurricular activities. Consistently at the forefront of innovation, we provide our students with holistic learning and real-life experiences to help them become well-rounded individuals," said Ferdie T. Dantes, STI Assistant Vice President for Academics.

Over 22,000 students from various STI campuses across the country gathered for a full-day celebration of talents, skills, and achievements on January 25, 2024.


Battle of the Bands 2023 National Champions
The Haley Band | STI College – Novaliches

Simultaneous competitions took place at the Enchanted Kingdom, featuring outstanding student musicians, dancers, heartthrobs, and darlings who vied for national titles in Singing Idol (solo singing competition), Battle of the Bands (band competition), Hataw Sayaw (dance competition), and the much-anticipated Search for Mr. and Ms. STI.


Titles of Mr. and Ms. STI 2023
Mr. STI 4th runner-up: John Reyn Espina from STI College Balayan
Ms. STI 4th runner-up: Mary Ann Dela Cruz from STI College Balagtas
Mr. STI 3rd runner-up: Brandon Ceralde from STI College Dagupan
Ms. STI 3rd runner-up: Jenny May Benedictos from STI College Malolos
Mr. STI 2nd runner-up: John Paul Gabriel from STI College Baliuag
Ms. STI 2nd runner-up: Loucille Allaine Bergado from STI College Tarlac
Mr. STI 1st runner-up: Angelo Bautista from STI College San Jose Del Monte
Ms. STI 1st runner-up: Argentina Colombia Sanchez from STI College Balayan
Mr. STI: Harjit Chohan from STI College Caloocan
Ms. STI: Kimberly Tinoy from STI College San Pablo




STIers also enjoyed a day filled with festivities and performances from celebrity guests and performers who participated in the event. 

The STI Talent Search is just one facet of the student programs lined up for the academic year, as the institution eagerly prepares to kick off the Second Semester with an array of exciting, network-wide educational activities.


Singing Idol 2023 Champion
Donalynne May Soriano - STI College Calamba

The Second Semester will feature events such as the National Youth Convention (NYC), a youth convention that spans for more than a decade now where thousands of STI students nationwide expand their knowledge in their chosen fields straight from the industry professionals.

Apart from NYC, STI College will also hold the annual Tagisan ng Talino (TNT) and Tagisan ng Sining (TNS), encompassing academic competitions like Think Quest (team quiz bee), CodeFest (mobile app development), Mix ‘n Flair (flair bartending), Travelogue (tour guiding), Chef Xpress (cooking competition), Shutter’s Best (photography), and Director’s Cut (short film), among others.



To learn more about STI's student programs and upcoming events, visit www.sti.edu


STI College Promotes Holistic Education in a Nationwide Talent Celebration

The STI Talent Search is one of my favorite events to cover as a blogger. I love seeing students showcasing their talents plus field trip mode on the side. Nostalgic feels ang mommy nyo and feeling belong sa younger crowds. Kidding aside and back to being a mommy, I have a 16-year-old son and soon-to-be college na. (Ayan, na-age reveal tuloy) Napag-uusapan na namin ang ang future nya for college like what course to take and where to enroll? And STI is on our list. Pano ba naman kasi STI College 40 years na, plus promotes holistic education too with the previous STI Talent Search 2023-2024 in a Nationwide Talent Celebration.

 

STI College is Committed to producing well-rounded and future-ready graduates and remains dedicated to fostering the holistic growth and development of its students through its diverse co-curricular and extracurricular activities.

Among these initiatives is the longstanding STI Talent Search, which, for the School Year 2023-2024, has made a grand return at the Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna. This event serves as a platform to empower STI students and showcase their talents both within and beyond their academic pursuits.










Hataw Sayaw 2023 National Champion 
Project Atmos | STI College Ormoc STI

"For 40 years, STI College has been nurturing students’ potential through academic and extracurricular activities. Consistently at the forefront of innovation, we provide our students with holistic learning and real-life experiences to help them become well-rounded individuals," said Ferdie T. Dantes, STI Assistant Vice President for Academics.

Over 22,000 students from various STI campuses across the country gathered for a full-day celebration of talents, skills, and achievements on January 25, 2024.


Battle of the Bands 2023 National Champions
The Haley Band | STI College – Novaliches

Simultaneous competitions took place at the Enchanted Kingdom, featuring outstanding student musicians, dancers, heartthrobs, and darlings who vied for national titles in Singing Idol (solo singing competition), Battle of the Bands (band competition), Hataw Sayaw (dance competition), and the much-anticipated Search for Mr. and Ms. STI.


Titles of Mr. and Ms. STI 2023
Mr. STI 4th runner-up: John Reyn Espina from STI College Balayan
Ms. STI 4th runner-up: Mary Ann Dela Cruz from STI College Balagtas
Mr. STI 3rd runner-up: Brandon Ceralde from STI College Dagupan
Ms. STI 3rd runner-up: Jenny May Benedictos from STI College Malolos
Mr. STI 2nd runner-up: John Paul Gabriel from STI College Baliuag
Ms. STI 2nd runner-up: Loucille Allaine Bergado from STI College Tarlac
Mr. STI 1st runner-up: Angelo Bautista from STI College San Jose Del Monte
Ms. STI 1st runner-up: Argentina Colombia Sanchez from STI College Balayan
Mr. STI: Harjit Chohan from STI College Caloocan
Ms. STI: Kimberly Tinoy from STI College San Pablo




STIers also enjoyed a day filled with festivities and performances from celebrity guests and performers who participated in the event. 

The STI Talent Search is just one facet of the student programs lined up for the academic year, as the institution eagerly prepares to kick off the Second Semester with an array of exciting, network-wide educational activities.


Singing Idol 2023 Champion
Donalynne May Soriano - STI College Calamba

The Second Semester will feature events such as the National Youth Convention (NYC), a youth convention that spans for more than a decade now where thousands of STI students nationwide expand their knowledge in their chosen fields straight from the industry professionals.

Apart from NYC, STI College will also hold the annual Tagisan ng Talino (TNT) and Tagisan ng Sining (TNS), encompassing academic competitions like Think Quest (team quiz bee), CodeFest (mobile app development), Mix ‘n Flair (flair bartending), Travelogue (tour guiding), Chef Xpress (cooking competition), Shutter’s Best (photography), and Director’s Cut (short film), among others.



To learn more about STI's student programs and upcoming events, visit www.sti.edu


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