ILOILO CITY — Iloilo’s cultural calendar gained a major highlight as Ballet Manila brought its celebrated production of “Ibong Adarna” to the Rose Memorial Auditorium at Central Philippine University on October 23, 2026. The afternoon performance offered a world-class fusion of Philippine literature and classical ballet, captivating the local audience.
A Timeless Literary Masterpiece
Choreographed by Ilonggo artistic associate Gerardo Francisco Jr., the adaptation transforms the beloved epic poem into a vibrant dance spectacle. The narrative follows three princes on a perilous quest to capture the mythical bird, whose healing voice is the only cure for their ailing father.
The timeless themes of family loyalty, forgiveness, and the triumph of good over evil remain universally resonant. This narrative accessibility ensures the production appeals to both longtime ballet enthusiasts and curious newcomers, bridging generational gaps through the power of live performance.
Elevating Local Arts and Culture
Mayor Raisa Treñas, alongside her daughter Inday Thea, expressed deep amazement at the performance. She highlighted how the magical storytelling, music, and intricate dance movements allowed the local community to deeply appreciate the profound beauty of Filipino literary heritage.
The city government ensured that many Ilonggo families could experience this world-class production by distributing free tickets. This generous initiative reflects the local administration's strong commitment to making the arts more accessible, inspiring the youth to discover new creative possibilities and pursue their artistic passions.
Exceptional Talent and Accolades
Under the artistic direction of prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, the production showcases the exceptional talent of Filipino artists. The ballet has earned critical acclaim, including Best Outstanding Production at the 30th Aliw Awards, cementing its status as a must-see cultural masterpiece in the country.
The event was made possible through strong public-private partnerships involving SM City Iloilo, the Iloilo City Government, and the Sayaw for Parkinson’s Disease Organization Inc. Their combined collaboration elevates local cultural programming, proving that community support is essential in bringing world-class performances to the Visayas region.
A Dual Performance Treat
Ticket holders for the Ibong Adarna performance gained complimentary access to a second show titled “Lubid: Untangling Misconceptions and Resilience in Parkinson’s Disease.” Scheduled for November 11, 2026, at the same venue, this NCCA-granted project explores health realities through artistic expression.
This dual-performance format offers exceptional value, opening the door to two meaningful productions for the price of one. It reflects a growing trend where entertainment and social advocacy beautifully intertwine, inviting audiences to engage with both classical storytelling and pressing contemporary health issues within the community.
