Sofia Zobel-Elizalde on Shaping Future Ballet Stars
Dance is often described as the language of the soul, a sentiment that resonates deeply with Sofia Zobel-Elizalde, the founder of Steps Dance Studio. In the over the 30-year history of her academy, the former ballet professional has nurtured countless young dancers who fondly call her "Teacher Sofia."
Elizalde's time as young Clara in Ballet Philippines' renowned Christmas ballet was a defining moment in her life. "My dancing years were filled with wonderful memories," she told Esquire Philippines at the rehearsal of "Christmas Ballet," a two-act performance held last December 13, 14 and 15 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. "The role of Clara in The Nutcracker is a magical experience for any young dancer."
Elizalde with her students at Steps Dance Studio
At the dance studio, Elizalde and her team guide children as young as three through the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus. Their rigorous training has resulted in many students winning competitions and joining professional companies worldwide.
The studio itself is spacious and bright, fostering an environment filled with discipline and joy—two elements that Elizalde believes are essential in the art form. “We don't see ourselves as competitors, instead, we focus on instilling a level of discipline in our students,” the dance guru said.
ALSO READ
Theater Review: Bar Boys: A New Musical Is a Masterclass in Adaptation
Theater Etiquette 101: Dos and Dont's When Watching a Live Show
At the rehearsals, Elizalde and choreographer James Laforteza keenly observe the first act, noting the impressive performance of their students, most of them under 20. As they danced to familiar Christmas songs of National Artist for Music Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, their execution is nearly flawless, full of youthful energy and promise. "These performers are not yet professionals, yet their achievement is remarkable," Elizalde beamed.
The dancers being briefed before their performance
The patroness of the arts takes pride in her students' successes, including those in the Steps Dance Foundation and Ayala Foundation's CENTEX program. Scholars have gone on to join prestigious companies like the American Ballet Theatre. “In the end, our goal is to keep classical ballet thriving and competitive worldwide,” she said.
In the second act, Elizalde highlights Danier Laganzo, the young Nutcracker Prince. His flawless leaps and jumps to Tchaikovsky's score were a sight to behold. A former CENTEX scholar from Tondo, Laganzo will soon join the Alberta Ballet in Canada. He won the top classical prize at the Young America Grand Prix last year and is certainly one to watch for the future.
Elizalde and Gonzales checking the preparations for Christmas Ballets backstage
"There are so many stories," Elizalde said proudly. Two former male scholars, Elwin Magbitang and Vince Pelegrin, have joined the American Ballet Theatre's main company. Magbitang and Pelegrin's success is heartwarming, and their achievements highlight the talents emerging from her school.
"We aim to keep classical ballet alive in the Philippines and pass its joy and passion to the next generation. We strive to raise the bar in classical technique, making our dancers competitive globally," she said as the dancers took a break.
"Christmas Ballets is a grand reunion of talented artists I've worked with over the years. We're of the same generation, sharing a strong work ethic and high standards," said Elizalde.
The show was comprised of two acts. Act 1 titled "Pinoy Christmas" featured the music of Maestro Cayabyab and choreography by Laforteza. Act 2 titled "The Nutcracker" was restaged by Jeffrey Floyd Espejo assisted by Pamela Espejo. Costumes and sets were designed by the award-winning Filipino designer Gino Gonzales, and lighting by Katsch Catoy.
Ronald Mabanag, a former banker, and Chris Juan, an ex-seminarian, are life partners and storytellers who share their journey through their lifestyle blog handpickedbyronandchris.blogspot.com and communications consultancy, focusing on lifestyle, branding, and design.
