Balletcenter Cebu, one of the Philippines’ longest-running dance institutions, is marking a historic milestone with Balletcenter Spectacular: 75 Years of Dance, a grand anniversary production set for June 27–28, 2026 at CenterStage, SM Seaside City Cebu.
Founded in 1951, Balletcenter Cebu has nurtured generations of dancers and artists for 75 years, becoming a cornerstone of dance education and the performing arts in Cebu. Over the decades, thousands of students have trained under its programs, many of whom have gone on to become professional dancers, teachers, choreographers, and arts leaders.
(L-R) Nicolas Pacaña and Gregory Aaron, Artistic Directors of Balletcenter Cebu, during the press conference for Balletcenter Spectacular: 75 Years of Dance.
Under the artistic direction of internationally acclaimed directors Gregory Aaron and Nicolas Pacaña, together with Ballet Master Mhynard Etis, Balletcenter Spectacular: 75 Years of Dance will bring together 268 dancers across four performances, making it one of the largest productions in the institution’s history.
(L-R) Ballet Master Mhynard Etis, Executive Director Ana Michelle Kesner, Artistic Director Nicolas Pacaña, Artistic Director Gregory Aaron, and Royeca School of Ballet matriarch Girlie Royeca during Balletcenter Cebu’s 75th Anniversary Press Conference.
The anniversary production will feature current students, company dancers, teachers, alumni, and Balletcenter families, celebrating the people and generations that have shaped the institution’s enduring legacy.
The milestone celebration comes as Balletcenter continues its rebuilding efforts following the 2024 fire that destroyed its studio. Despite the challenges, the support of students, parents, alumni, teachers, sponsors, and friends enabled the institution to continue its programs and move forward with renewed purpose.
“This anniversary is not only a celebration of 75 years of dance, but also a celebration of the resilience, dedication, and community spirit that have sustained Balletcenter through generations,” said Ana Michelle Kesner, Executive Director of Balletcenter Cebu. “We are honored to share this milestone with everyone who has been part of our journey.”
Company dancer Cheron Kishes Co represents the artistry, discipline, and passion that have defined Balletcenter Cebu for 75 years.
See her and 267 other dancers in Balletcenter Spectacular: 75 Years of Dance on June 27–28 at CenterStage, SM Seaside City Cebu.
As Balletcenter Cebu enters its next chapter, it remains committed to nurturing future generations of artists while continuing to enrich Cebu’s cultural landscape through dance and the performing arts.
Balletcenter Spectacular: 75 Years of Dance will be presented on June 27–28, 2026 at CenterStage, SM Seaside City Cebu.
