Truly a romance for the ages, “La Sylphide” is one of the world’s oldest and most long-standing ballets. Having premiered in Paris in 1832 – at the Paris Opera, no less – the performance is one that has enthralled generations. The story revolves around the misfortunes of love, centering itself on a young man named James, who – just before his wedding to a woman named Effie – is met by an enchanting air spirit, a sylph. The sylph dances for him and captures his imagination, ultimately leading him away from his bride, Effie, whom James’ cousin, Gurn, is also secretly in love with.

The drama unfolds in two acts, and at the time of its 1832 premier, was truly a spectacle as it marked a dramatic shift in how ballet was performed: it was the first of any to be entirely performed en pointe. A credit to Marie Taglioni, who played the Sylph in 1832, the performance was applauded for its incredible technique.

“[The ballet] ‘La Sylphide’ is truly one of the most difficult dances to perform – if not the most difficult,” says Mikhail “Misha” Martynuk, Artistic Director of Ballet Philippines, and a dancer himself. “Every step in ‘La Sylphide’ is part of the performance and after ten minutes of this, you can imagine that [a dancer] will become exhausted. That is why we have had to put our dancers through a rigorous training program, which includes plenty of cardio.”

Nevertheless, the result is as rewarding for the audience as it is for the dancer. Now on its 55th season, Ballet Philippines is proud to put on a unique rendition of the dance, “blending the essence of the Bournonville version with our nation’s vibrant romanticism and deep-seated belief in the mystical.” To be performed by different pairs of dancers each night, “La Sylphide” will see local talents take the stage, proudly showcasing the abilities of our moreno and morena dancers. “We don’t know why it took us this long to stage such an iconic dance [for the first time],” laughs Kathleen “Mai-Mai” Lior Liechtenstein, President and CEO of Ballet Philippines. “But it is here now, and we are so excited to showcase our talents to you.”

Set to debut on August 9, 2024 at the Theatre in Solaire, “La Sylphide” will put on additional performances on both August 10 and August 11, 2024.

Ballet Philippines will continue their magical season to Neverland with a performance of “Peter Pan” on December 6, 7, and 8, 2024. They shall then begin the year 2025 with a full-length Filipiniana ballet, “Ang Panaginip”, as their season finale from February 28 to March 2, 2025. “You will truly be in shock when you find out what other things we have in store for you!” adds Kathleen excitedly.