Based on Lord Byron’s poem "The Corsair", the three-act ballet centers on a Greek girl, Medora, sold into slavery but miraculously saved by the pirate Conrad. They fall in love and together face seemingly insurmountable hardships, culminating in their continuing voyage together. Cast as Medora is Lisa Macu-ja Elizalde, with company member Nazer Salgado in his biggest break as the dashing Conrad. Alternating are senior soloist Mylene Aggabao and soloist Niño Guevarra in the same roles. Providing competent support is Ballet Manila’s 40-strong ensemble of classically trained soloists and corps de ballet. Re-staging the ballet is BM’s artistic associate and ballet master Osias Barroso.

While most ballets are choreographed around the female lead, Le Corsaire is described as a testosterone ballet where most of the intricate footwork is actually done by the men. "This ballet gives the BM boys a chance to shine," says Macuja Elizalde. "We are in a very unique situation where we actually have more male than female dancers and we’d like to use this to our advantage," she says.

Le Corsaire goes onstage on February 15-17 and 23-24 at the Star Theater inside Star City, CCP Complex, Pasay City. For tickets and performance schedules, call Ballet Manila at 400 0292 and 525 5967 or email info@balletmanila.ph. You may also check its website at www.balletmanila.ph.