Grand Jeté from Manila: Filipino Dancers Leap into the World of Alberta Ballet

In a milestone for Filipino representation in classical dance, ballet artists Danier Laganzo and Katherine Nuñez are making their mark on Canadian soil as the first Filipino dancers straight from Manila to join the esteemed Alberta Ballet Trainee Program. Their participation is not only a testament to their individual talent and determination but also part of a larger narrative—one that celebrates Filipino excellence, resilience, and artistry rising to international recognition.

The path to professional ballet is rarely easy, and for many Filipino dancers, it is shaped by financial hurdles, limited access, and geographic distance. Ballet remains a niche but passionate art form in the Philippines, where aspiring dancers must work doubly hard to be seen. Despite the odds, talents like Danier and Katherine have emerged through the country’s rigorous training systems and rare global opportunities—proof that excellence knows no borders.

Their ballet journey began under the mentorship of Sofia Zobel Elizalde, owner and director of Steps Dance Studio and a tireless advocate for accessible, high-quality dance education in the Philippines. I had the privilege of working and dancing alongside her in Ballet Philippines, and I have witnessed her unwavering commitment to cultivating the next generation of artists. Through the Steps Scholarship Foundation, Sofia has opened doors for countless young dancers who would otherwise have no access to formal ballet training. The discipline, artistry, and drive that Danier and Katherine embody today are living reflections of her guidance. Their achievements affirm her vision: that with the right support and opportunity, Filipino dancers can rise from humble beginnings and take their place on the world’s most prestigious stages.

Both dancers bring an impressive record of international accolades. 

Danier’s accomplishments include: 

• Finalist, Youth America Grand Prix, New York (2024) 

• Grand Prix Award & 1st Place Ensemble, Youth Grand Prix Philippines (2023) 

• Finalist, Youth America Grand Prix, Tampa (2023) 

• Silver Medalist, Asian Grand Prix Finals, Bangkok (2022) 

• Grand Prix Award, Youth Grand Prix Philippines (2022) – NZQA Level 6 Certificate in Dance Performance (2021)

Katherine’s recognitions include: 

• Youth Asian Grand Prix (2024): 1st Place Group Ensemble, Top 12 Senior Classical, 1st Place Senior Contemporary, Top 12 Group Ensemble (Finals) 

• Youth Asian Grand Prix (2023): 1st Place Senior Contemporary, 1st Place Group Ensemble

It was through these international competitions that they caught the eye of Aram Manukyan, Director of Alberta Ballet Trainee Program. Struck by their grace, power, and potential, he offered them scholarships to join the elite training program—a bridge between student life and professional ballet careers. The program offers only a handful of dancers the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside Alberta Ballet company members, gaining invaluable stage experience and mentorship. That two Filipino dancers are among this select cohort speaks volumes about their caliber and the rising recognition of Filipino talent in global ballet circles.

Danier and Katherine’s journey from the studios of Manila to the international stage is more than a personal triumph—it’s a beacon of hope for young dancers across the Philippines. Their story proves that with discipline, passion, and the right support system, dreams that once felt distant can become reality. Behind every grand jeté (leap) are the teachers, mentors, and communities who nurture, believe, and uplift. As Danier and Katherine continue to rise, they carry not only their own aspirations but the hopes of every young Filipino artist who dreams of dancing beyond borders.

Their presence in Alberta is also a moment of pride for the Filipino community in Canada, particularly in Alberta, where their inclusion in the Trainee Program brings visibility and celebration to the richness of Filipino artistry. It affirms what many already know: that Filipino dancers bring not just skill, but heart, heritage, and boundless potential. With every performance, Danier and Katherine shine not only as artists—but as ambassadors of a resilient and vibrant culture.

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*This article was published in the April 2025 issue of The Alberta Chronicle.

**Do you know of a Filipino, or of Filipino-descent artist/creative, or an art and culture event that should be featured? Let us know at PhilippineArtsCouncil@gmail.com.