Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Sarimanok Soars in New York this October in Celebration of Philippine History Month

New York City — A spellbinding fusion of folklore and classical dance awaits Filipino Americans and art lovers alike as the Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) brings its acclaimed production Sarimanok to New York on October 4, 2025, in celebration of Philippine History Month in the United States.

Presented by the Foundation for Filipino Artists and the Reginald Lewis Foundation, Sarimanok is a ballet adaptation of the iconic mythical bird of Mindanao—believed to be a symbol of good fortune and prosperity in Maranao culture. The production, under the direction of Ron Jaynario, uses the power of movement and music to explore the bird’s mystique and its connection to Philippine identity.

Set to take place at LaGuardia Performing Arts Center in Queens at 6:00 PM, Sarimanok is more than just a dance performance—it’s a vibrant celebration of Filipino creativity and heritage. Tickets are available at $50 and $98, and can be reserved by emailing filartists@gmail.com.

What makes this performance even more special is the collaboration between visiting PBT dancers and local Filipino American artists based in New York, creating a unique cultural exchange. The musical direction is led by Rogelio Peñaverde Jr., an internationally recognized tenor known for his advocacy of Filipino music.

Now in its fourth annual U.S. tour, the Philippine Ballet Theatre continues to push artistic boundaries. Under the leadership of Marilou Magsaysay, the company has earned praise for merging classical ballet with elements of Philippine folk and contemporary culture. In 2024, the company was officially named the National Performing Arts Company for Dance by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)—a historic milestone in Philippine dance history.

Following its New York debut, Sarimanok will tour several other U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Beaverton, bringing the rich tapestry of Philippine mythology to audiences across the country.

As Filipino communities in the U.S. celebrate their history and culture this October, Sarimanok offers a powerful, poetic reminder of the stories that bind and inspire. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Philippine ballet and folklore come alive on stage.