Spellbinding ballet

They must have been Hispanic in their previous life! Prominent in Dumville's Sino business class, the Peralta family for years has prospered in trading, and just recently took over a dilapidated old house transforming it into an authentic Spanish house of yesteryears during the golden age of Insular Philippines, the likes of houses now tourist attractions on cobbled stone streets of old Vigan. Aptly called Spanish Heritage, the building now houses businesses in the ground floor, art galleries, and function rooms reminiscent of the grand ballrooms of the hacienda homes of the illustrados in the second floor, and a recently opened coffee shop nestled in a corner space on the second landing.

Café Antonio's opening was so suggestive of an afternoon tea party. The iron grilled gates beckoned businessmen, professionals and a sprinkling

of society into a "mi casa es su casa" feel. The traditional red ribbon was snipped by its namesake Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Peralta with City Administrator Dominador Dumalag, Jr. as special guest. Café Antonio's ambiance is a carefully studied "azotea" of a Spanish home. Tables and chairs are so, so "Arte Español" and pintoresque paintings adorn the walls.

Our very own version of "Starbucks" served different flavored coffees, and blends from coffee capitals of the world. Only one not on the list was "Juan Valdez" but Columbia was well represented am sure! Mr. and Mrs. Dixon Peralta were perfect hosts to the opening crowd and made sure that we all sampled their great tasting coffees and yummy crumpets.

High society Dr. Rico Absin, his medical groupies and Arlene and Don Ramas-Uypitching and their fun pack did give their empathic "thumbs up!"

The Silliman University Cultural Affairs Committee recently treated local "culture vultures" to a "once in a long, long time" experience with their presentation of Ballet Manila dancing "Carmen and Other Ballets." "Moi" is not much of a ballet aficionado, but let me tell you, this is one time I was thoroughly enthralled. Prima Ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde was magical as the fiery Carmen, and the other dancers in supporting roles were equally spellbinding. It was so wonderful that am sure George Bizet rose from his grave to encore his work. In spite of a few opening night kinks, the experience was well worth its weight in gold, stiff ticket price and all. Well deserved standing ovations were accorded and red rose petals thrown on stage to demonstrate the audience enchantment.

After theater dinner group did nothing but ballet talk!

Bravo to the Silliman University Cultural Affairs Committee for its venture, Dumaguete will forever be greatful for more out-of-town artistic and intellectual shows. More power and long life……NOUS!*