Cover Christopher Mohnani, Barry Hughson, Sofia Zobel Elizalde and Sascha Radetsky at the International Dance Day Fest opening gala at Circuit Makati (Photo: PJ Pascual; Courtesy of Visions)
Christopher Mohnani, Barry Hughson, Sofia Zobel Elizalde and Sascha Radetsky at the International Dance Day Fest opening gala at Circuit Makati (Photo: PJ Pascual; Courtesy of Visions)
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International Dance Day Fest brought ballet, folk, street and contemporary dance to Circuit Makati, celebrating culture, creativity and Manila’s growing arts scene
The festivities began on a high note as the International Dance Day Fest opened in grand style at Circuit Makati on April 22. Its stage, the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, became a lively meeting place for Manila’s cultural set.
Headlining the much anticipated opening gala was the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company, whose arrival marked a significant moment for the local dance scene. Joining them were acclaimed principal dancers Thomas Forster and Christine Shevchenko, whose presence added to the evening’s sense of occasion. Their performances delivered a masterclass in precision, elegance and emotional depth, setting a sophisticated tone for the festival ahead.
Above Thomas Forster and Christine Shevchenko at the International Dance Day Fest opening gala
Above His Excellency Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura and Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala
Thomas Forster and Christine Shevchenko at the International Dance Day Fest opening gala
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With additional support from Ayala Corporation and Steps Dance Foundation, the gala underscored the growing importance of international artistic exchange in the city’s cultural calendar. Guests from Manila’s social, diplomatic and creative circles filled the theatre, creating an atmosphere that felt at once celebratory and intimate. It was a gathering of patrons, artists and advocates united by a shared belief in dance as both a discipline and a universal language.
Beyond the glamour of opening night, the festival’s programme offered a thoughtfully curated journey through the many forms dance can take. Each evening presented a different perspective on movement, celebrating both heritage and innovation.
Above Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Sofia Zobel Elizalde, His Excellency Dr Nicolas Brühl and Prof Dr Denise Brühl-Moser at the International Dance Day Fest opening gala
Above Susie Quiros, Nikki Menchaca, Mia Borromeo, PJ Pascual, Marilu Batchelor, Anne Marie Saguil, Marina Trigo and Montse Cuervo
Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Sofia Zobel Elizalde, His Excellency Dr Nicolas Brühl and Prof Dr Denise Brühl-Moser at the International Dance Day Fest opening gala
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On April 23, the Folk Dance Gala turned the spotlight on Filipino tradition, with performances rooted in cultural storytelling and regional identity. The following evening shifted the energy entirely with the Street Dance Gala. Lively, energetic and distinctly modern, it promised a striking contrast to the formality of ballet.
On the fourth day, the Ballet Gala returned to classical form, showcasing the discipline and grace that define the genre. Featuring some of the country’s leading ballet talents, it offered audiences the chance to witness the brilliance and power of a tradition that continues to inspire.
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Above Becca Dosch, Iñigo Elizalde, Francisco “Paco” Elizalde, Marilen Elizalde and Cristina Davila
Above Among the guests at the International Dance Day Fest opening gala were PJ Pascual, Nikki Huang, Anto and Elaine Marden, Doris Ho and Lily O’Boyle
Becca Dosch, Iñigo Elizalde, Francisco “Paco” Elizalde, Marilen Elizalde and Cristina Davila
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The festival concluded with the Contemporary Gala, a fitting finale that embraced experimentation and emotional expression. These works reflect the evolving language of dance today, where boundaries blur and movement becomes a deeply personal form of storytelling.
Karen Santos and Bea Zobel De Ayala Jr
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In a city that is increasingly arts as part of its identity, the International Dance Day Fest feels both timely and necessary. More than a series of performances, it is a reminder that dance remains one of the most powerful ways to connect across cultures, generations and disciplines.
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Images: PJ Pascual; courtesy of Visions
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Jessica grew up writing letters for everyone, on every occasion. Little did she know that her hobby would eventually turn into a true passion. She believes that content should be relatable yet factual, engaging yet straightforward.
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A journalism graduate, Jessica never stops learning and honing her craft. She began her career as a Global Content Editor for a travel company, inspiring readers and travellers to explore the world. Currently, she writes on topics ranging from entertainment, health, sports and travel to in-depth stories about influential and impactful personalities.
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