The drive-through cinema experience, one of the innovations during the new normal, went cultural with the recent twin-bill presentation — a classic Christmas ballet and a contemporary work. This resulted in a cheerful outdoor movie experience while staying safe amidst the current circumstances.
A project of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, with the support of Century Tuna Premium Red, the show presented the artists of the CCP Dance Workshop in back-to-back screenings of “The Nutcracker Ballet Act 2” and “Tuloy ang Pasko” recently at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.
National Artists for Dance, Alice Reyes, CCP’s Vice President and Artistic Director Chris Millado, and the artists of the CCP Dance Workshop graced the event. They were warmly welcomed by SAVP for Operations of SM Mall of Asia Perkin So.
Featuring Tchaikovsky’s sweeping musical score, “The Nutcracker Ballet Act 2” brings to life the beloved Christmas story through dances from many distant lands. All wrapped together and spun with sugar by the Sugarplum Fairy herself. The act was choreographed by Adam Sage after Marius Petipa, with additional choreography by National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes. Costumes are supervised by Adam Sage and Ace Polias.
Set in the Christmas season in Manila during the ‘70s, “Tuloy ang Pasko” narrates Lolo Val’s lonely Christmas Eve in the “new normal” that turns into a joyous one when he is able to reconnect with his old barkada through a video call. The story reminds us that no matter the distance, time, or situation, we can still celebrate Christmas and feel the Filipino Christmas spirit.
It features Christmas classics arranged and conducted by National Artist for Music, Ryan Cayabyab. Choreography is by Ronelson Yadao with Erl Sorilla, John Ababon, Lester Reguindin, Bonifacio Guerrero, Danilo Dayo and Al Abraham. Artistic direction and costumes are by Alice Reyes.
Both dance films are directed by Carlos Siguion Reyna, with set designs by Eric Cruz and lighting designs and technical direction by Barbie Tan-Tiongco. Performances were filmed at the CCP Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo without a live audience, following a stringent health and safety protocol.
