The Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) will premiere Maria Makiling, an original full-length ballet inspired by Filipino folklore, on July 5 and 6 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Makati.
Choreographed by artistic director Ronilo Jaynario with music by composer Paulo Zarate, the ballet tells the story of a mountain goddess whose choice of a suitor triggers a conspiracy that forces her to retreat from the human world.
This marks the third collaboration between Jaynario and Zarate, following Ibalon (2023) and Sarimanok (2024). The score blends Filipino and Spanish influences, including kundiman and flamenco.
The production consulted with local cultural historians in Laguna, including University of the Philippines Los Baños vice chancellor Roberto Cereno, to ensure authenticity.
Gabby Jaynario and Jessa Tangalin will alternate in the lead role, with Matthew Davo and Justine Orande playing Maria’s love interest.
Tickets are available via Ticketworld and the PBT Secretariat.
