Fife, T. 2023

The objective of this research was to clearly define the process of Filipinization in which ballet was assimilated into the Philippine culture by comparing ballet histories from France, Russia, and the United States to the development of Ballet in the Philippines to gauge the depth of which ballet was adapted into the Philippine context.

The study finds that Ballet in the Philippines has been assimilated into the culture not just through government recognition with the development of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the recognition of National Artists of Dance, and other figures with their contribution to the Filipinization of ballet, but also through the cultivation of a unique Philippine repertoire.

Through interviews with experts in the field, the results showed that even if ballet is recognized as a profession in the country, there still needs to be more institutional support for ballet companies and dancers in terms of financial support and benefits.

In terms of dance education, there is a preference for European dancing traditions and little focus on the local folk-dance arts. There has been, however, a strong motivation towards creating a healthier environment with dance teachers and students to cultivate strong Filipino dancers and choreographers.
Lastly, all interviews conclude that Filipinos have a natural sense of artistry that needs to be nurtured to reach the full potential of being a dance artist. Philippine Ballet and its Filipinization is just one aspect of a larger theme that encapsulates the relationship of the artistic discipline to Philippine society.