Performing the same role countless times can either sharpen a dancer’s artistry or risk dulling their spark. For international ballet icons Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim, it’s a challenge they embrace with passion, precision, and an endless pursuit of nuance.
This August 22 to 24 at the Aliw Theater, the two Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers step into the beloved roles of Kitri and Basilio in Don Quixote—the grand finale of Ballet Manila’s Pearl Year season. Though they’ve danced these characters many times before, both artists vow that no two performances are ever the same.
For Renata, Kitri is her most performed role, yet she approaches every staging as if it were her first.
“I have to prepare for the performance like it’s new,” she shares. “When you’ve danced it many times, it can become mechanical. But the responsibility is to rediscover something fresh in every rehearsal and every performance.”
She credits her partner Kimin for his sharp attention to detail, saying:
“He always notices even the smallest nuances. Every performance is made up of these small details—and with him, there’s always something new to discover.”
Kimin, a multi-awarded principal dancer trained at the Mariinsky Theater, describes Basilio as “a shimmering red—bright, bold, and thrilling to portray.” For him, technique and artistry are inseparable.
“Schooling is everything,” he explains. “The technique—fouettés, jumps, acting—are what you build from. But beyond that, I always want to give the audience both my inner self and my artistry.”
Having partnered Renata many times before, Kimin still finds excitement in her performances.
“She is very emotional, and every time onstage, she shows something different. It’s always a surprise, and I’m never bored dancing with her.”
Returning to Manila after her acclaimed Giselle with Ballet Manila last year, Renata looks forward to showing audiences a different side of her artistry.
“Giselle was very dramatic and heavy, while Don Quixote is joyful, lively, and full of style. I’m excited for audiences to see this other facet of me.”
For Kimin, who will perform in the Philippines for the first time, his goal is to leave a lasting impression.
“I want the audience not just to clap or say ‘bravo,’ but to take home a bright memory of the performance. That only happens if you give them emotion and a message they can carry with them.”
Ballet Manila’s CEO and artistic director Lisa Macuja Elizalde couldn’t be more thrilled to close the season with Renata and Kimin.
“It’s only fitting to conclude our Pearl Year with such world-class talents. Their artistry reinforces our mission to bring the best of ballet to Filipino audiences.”
Don’t miss this spectacular staging of Don Quixote featuring Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim on:
- August 22 (8 PM)
- August 23 & 24 (5 PM)
Aliw Theater, Pasay City
Tickets available at www.ticketworld.com.ph
For more info, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.
