Julia Christine Botin

Mariinsky Ballet stars to lead Ballet Manila’s ‘Don Quixote’ in PH debut

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ABS-CBN News

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/175022979252020250618070652_Mariinsky Ballet.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova. Handout </div>MANILA – Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova are set to make a historic Philippine debut, leading Ballet Manila&#x27;s highly anticipated production of &quot;Don Quixote&quot; as the grand finale of the company’s pearl year performance season.Kim, the Mariinsky Ballet&#x27;s first-ever foreign male principal dancer, will take on the role of Basilio, marking his inaugural performance in the Philippines. Shakirova, returning after her acclaimed performance in Ballet Manila&#x27;s &quot;Giselle&quot; last year, will perform as Kitri, one of her signature roles.Born in Seoul, South Korea, Kim&#x27;s journey to ballet stardom began at age 10. He trained at the Korea National University of Arts and quickly gained international recognition, winning top honors in prestigious ballet competitions. In 2011, he joined the Mariinsky Ballet, overcoming initial cultural and language barriers to rise rapidly through the ranks, achieving principal dancer status in 2015.Shakirova, a principal dancer known for her grace, strength, and compelling storytelling, made her principal role debut as Kitri in &quot;Don Quixote&quot; in 2015. She captivated Manila audiences with her blend of elegance and emotional depth during her &quot;Giselle&quot; performance last year and is expected to bring vivacious energy to Kitri alongside Kim&#x27;s spirited Basilio.&quot;Having Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova perform &#x27;Don Quixote&#x27; on our stage is a dream come true,&quot; Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s artistic director, said in a press statement released Wednesday. &quot;Their artistry, strength, and star power will make this production truly unforgettable. We are honored to bring world-class ballet to Filipino audiences and celebrate our 30th anniversary with these incredible dancers.&quot;The production will run at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City on August 22 at 8 p.m., and on August 23 and 24 at 5 p.m.This concludes Ballet Manila’s 30th-anniversary celebration, underscoring the company&#x27;s dedication to presenting world-class ballet.

Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova are set to make a historic Philippine debut, leading Ballet Manila's highly anticipated production of 'Don Quixote.'

Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova are set to make a historic Philippine debut, leading Ballet Manila's highly anticipated production of 'Don Quixote.'