Stella Abrera was born in Manila but moved to the United States when she was four years.
READ: Stella Abrera is ‘Giselle’ at Ballet Philippines’ 45th anniv
The American Ballet Theatre soloist—who plays Giselle for one night only in Ballet Philippines’ 45th anniversary production—reveals the 10 things she looks forward to doing while in town.
1. Eating longganisa at Sev’s Café
A friend brought me to a tiny cafe across the street from the Cultural Center of the Philippines called Sev’s Cafe. They serve the most delicious homemade longganisa with my healthy—it’s served with brown rice—longsilog. B/L Legaspi Towers 300, Pablo Ocampo St cor Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila; +63 2 2392327. Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat 12pm-12am.
2. Swimming at Sofitel Philippine Plaza
After a fabulous brunch at Spiral—such an amazing array of foods—I strolled around the hotel grounds and reminisced about the fun afternoons I spent as a kid in that pool. Atang dela Rama Rd, CCP Complex, Pasay City; +63 2 5515555.
3. Dancing to Philippine Philharmonic’s music
I look forward to experiencing the beautiful music of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, led by maestro Olivier Ochanine, during our performance of Giselle on Sep 19 at the CCP. Tickets via Ticketworld.
4. Watching Manila sunsets from Bayleaf
It has been recommended that I check out the view of the sunset from the rooftop lounge of The Bayleaf in Intramuros. Hope I get some free time after rehearsals! Sky Deck View Bar, 10/F The Bayleaf Intramuros, Muralla cor Victoria Sts, Intramuros, Manila; +63 2 3185000. Mon-Sat 5pm-1am, Sun 5pm-11pm.
READ: 5 best rooftop bars in Manila
5. Touring Intramuros
I look forward to showing my partner, James, the beautiful Walled City. It’s so full of history. Hot tip: Carlos Celdran‘s classic Intramuros Walking Tour takes three hours and costs PHP1,1000 per adult. Email celdrantours@hotmail.com
6. Smelling sampaguita wreaths
There’s one hanging on my bedside lamp now. It smells heavenly! Hot tip: Sampaguita is the national flower of the Philippines. Garlands are sold for cheap on the street or near Catholic churches.
7. Eating comfort food
Ube ice cream, lechon kawali and mangosteen—check, check and check! I’m still looking for atis, though.
8. Taking cover from afternoon rainstorms
9. Shopping at SM Department Store
So fun shopping for beautiful Philipinana garments, and wishing I could buy all of the acacia wood dining accessories. Hot tip: ShoeMart in Harrison Plaza in Malate is one of the department store’s oldest branches.
READ: 10 things to do in Harrison Plaza
10. Eating dried mangoes
Yes, more eating.
Catch American Ballet Theater soloist Stella Abrera perform in Ballet Philippines’ Giselle with principal dancer James Whiteside in their one-night only performance on Sep 19, 8pm. Tickets via CCP +63 2 8323704.
Katherine Trofeo and Jean Marc Cordero perform in these shows: Sep 19 3pm, Sep 20 2pm & 6pm, Sep 21 2pm. Tickets: CCP Box Office +63 2 8323704 or Ticketworld +63 2 8919999.
Photo by Erickson dela Cruz
Reader Interactions