Ballet Manila’s Pearl Year Performance Season will reach its grand finale with a highly anticipated staging of Don Quixote, featuring two of the world’s most celebrated ballet artists—Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova of the Mariinsky Ballet. This milestone production not only marks the culmination of Ballet Manila’s 30th anniversary celebration but also welcomes Kim’s debut performance in the Philippines as Basilio. Shakirova, who enthralled audiences last year in Giselle, returns to the Manila stage to play Kitri.
Kimin Kim is a groundbreaking figure in the world of ballet. As the first foreign male principal dancer in the Mariinsky Ballet’s storied history, Kim’s journey is nothing short of historic. Born in Seoul, South Korea, he began dancing at the age of 10, encouraged by his mother, a composer, to pursue the art. He honed his technique at the Korea National University of Arts under the guidance of former Mariinsky soloists Margarita Kullik and Vladimir Kim, mastering the Vaganova method.
Kim’s prodigious skill quickly captured international attention. He garnered top awards in some of the most prestigious ballet competitions across the globe, including Moscow, Varna, and Jackson. In 2011, he was invited to audition for the Mariinsky Ballet. Despite the cultural and language challenges he initially faced, Kim’s talent and determination saw him through the rigorous training and demanding standards of the company. His breakout performance as Ali in Le Corsaire revealed his signature style—soaring jumps, flawless turns, and commanding stage presence. These qualities earned him rapid promotions and, in 2015, the distinction of becoming the company’s first foreign male principal dancer.
Joining him in the production of Don Quixote is Renata Shakirova, a principal dancer of the Mariinsky Ballet who is also known for her strength, grace, and emotional depth. Shakirova is closely connected to Ballet Manila through her mentor-sibling relationship with Lisa Macuja, under the tutelage of Tatiana Udalenkova. Her artistry has earned her acclaim for compelling performances that blend technical excellence with rich storytelling.
Shakirova’s portrayal of Kitri in Don Quixote is particularly notable—this role was her first as a principal dancer, dating back to 2015. Last year, she captivated Manila audiences with her performance in Giselle, demonstrating both elegance and emotional sensitivity. In Don Quixote, she returns with vivacious energy and refined technique, promising an electrifying performance opposite Kim’s spirited Basilio.
Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Artistic Director of Ballet Manila, shared her enthusiasm about the production and the opportunity to host such acclaimed talents. “Having Kimin Kim and Renata Shakirova perform Don Quixote on our stage is a dream come true. 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,” said Lisa.
The production will be staged at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City. Showtimes are scheduled for August 22, 2025, at 8:00 p.m., and on August 23 and 24, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. This performance serves as the grand finale of Ballet Manila’s Pearl Year, reinforcing the company’s mission to deliver exceptional ballet productions to the Filipino public.
Tickets for Don Quixote will be available soon at www.ticketworld.com.ph. For more information on Ballet Manila’s shows and initiatives, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.
