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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Youth devider Ballet Manila's 'Florante at Laura' to spotlight the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth

Ballet Manila's 'Florante at Laura' to spotlight the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth

The classic Filipino tale is set to come alive on stage this October

Published Oct 1, 2025 07:11 am
For so long, Francisco Balagtas’ epic poem “Florante at Laura” has been part of many Filipino students’ lives. Through it, they have learned the value of love, friendship, betrayal, as well as lessons on social and political issues. This October, Filipinos can journey to Albania as this classic tale comes alive beyond the pages and onto the stage.
As part of its 30th anniversary celebration, Ballet Manila invites everyone to witness its production of “Florante at Laura,” happening at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City. Now on its second run, the show features the artistry of two of the country’s foremost icons—prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde and National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.
Lisa serves as the production’s artistic director, while Ryan leads with his original composition. Bringing the music to life are 60 musicians from the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth (OFY), under the baton of conductor Toma Cayabyab.
The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth is the main performing arm of Ang Misyon, a non-profit organization. OFY provides a platform for talented young musicians, many from underprivileged backgrounds, to access world-class music education, mentorship, and performance opportunities both locally and internationally.
This landmark production first premiered in 2024, featuring choreography by Gerardo Francisco Jr. and Martin Lawrance, with artistic direction by Lisa Macuja-Elizalde. It opened to sold-out audiences and widespread critical acclaim. Inspired by Balagtas’ epic poem, Ryan Cayabyab dedicated his original music for “Florante at Laura” to the OFY—a testament to his enduring support for Filipino youth and musical excellence. The piece was composed with the OFY in mind as its premiere orchestra, making the young musicians not just performers but the very heart of the musical journey.
Beyond its restaging, this season also marks the digital release of the official “Florante at Laura” music. Professionally recorded by the OFY under the baton of Maestro Gerard Salonga at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Black Box Theater), the album is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms—bringing the spirit of the stage to listeners around the world.
Performance dates:
  • Oct. 3, 2025, Friday | 8 p.m.
  • Oct. 4, 2025, Saturday | 5 p.m.
  • Oct. 5, 2025, Sunday | 5 p.m.
Tickets are available exclusively through Ticketworld.

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Youth Ballet Manila Florante at Laura Orchestra of the Filipino Youth
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