Spring Awakening Opens in Manila on Sept 25

A rebellious free-thinker. An innocent dreamer. And the love affair that inflamed a society trapped between repression and denial. This is SPRING AWAKENING, the Grammy Award and Tony Award-winning Best Musical of 2007. Featuring “the most gorgeous Great White Way score this decade” (Entertainment Weekly), this heartbreaking, groundbreaking musical sensation quickly took Broadway by storm, earning 8 Tony Award including Best Musical of the Year. And on September 25^th, it opens in Manila.

Atlantis Productions continues it’s 10^th Anniversary celebration with Duncan Sheik and Steve Sater’s multi-award winning alternative rock musical directed by Chari Arespacochaga and featuring Jett Pangan, Cheska Inigo, Sitti Navarro along with some of Philippine Theatre’s brightest upcoming stars.

Featuring Costume Design by Rajo Laurel, Set Design by Tuxqs Rutaquio, Choreography by Dexter Santos, Lighting Design by Voltaire de Jesus , Vocal Direction by ManMan Angsico and Musical Direction by Jojo Malferari, SPRING AWAKENING runs at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati from September 25 to October 18, 2009. It is made possible via a special licensing agreement with it’s Broadway producers Ira Pittleman, Tom Hulce, Jeffrey Richards, and Jerry Frankel.

Due to explicit content and some nudity, Parental Discretion is strongly advised.

Don’t miss your chance to see the show that changed Broadway forever. In a few short weeks this fusion of morality, sexuality and rock and roll will tear it up and turn it out for the first time in Manila!

Related news here: Broadway World & Inquirer;

Spring Awakening Main Website.

For tickets call Atlantis Productions at (632) 892-7078 or 840-1187.

Eureka Performing Arts presents a play, "Lost & Found" on Sept 13, 2009

Eureka is a group of people who has the passion and the hearts for arts. Their aim is to communicate by means of performance arts and awaken creativity in an individual. They believe that Filipinos have the passion and creativity and they are committed to bringing that out in a safe environment. Eureka wants to uphold the Filipino artistry and open doors for art in our communities.

The group is proud to present a theater production entitled Lost and Found, a story of a group of people who were lost in life and finally found their purpose and identity when they found God.

Ticket: P200.00

Venue: GCF-SM Daang Hari Las Piñas

Time: September 13, 2009 (Sunday), 5:00 pm

For tickets, please call/ text Durvin thru +63905.2127174 or +63921.4988641

Location Map:

First-time winners dominate Palanca Awards 2009

Seen on Joy Parohinog's multiply:

Posted on September 3rd, 2009 under Art & Living Achievements (Good News Pilipinas).

Congratulations to all the winners!

The 2009 edition of the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature saw the emergence of new literature talent.

This year saw the most number of first time winners—more than 60 percent on the 59th year of the most prestigious and longest-running literary contest.

Established in 1950 to honor Don Carlos Palanca Sr., the competition “aims to help develop Philippine literature for writers to craft their most outstanding literary work; to be a treasury of the Philippines’ literary gems from our gifted writers; and to assist in its dissemination to the public, especially the students.”

The 2009 Palanca Hall of Fame awardees are essayist Reuel Molina Aguila and poet Eugene Evasco, both professors at the University of the Philippines.

Aguila won his fifth first prize for his piece “Ngunit Wala Akong Litrato Noong Nasa Kolehiyo Ako” under the Sanaysay (essay in Filipino) category.

Evasco also received his fifth first prize for “May Tiyanak Sa Loob Ng Aking Bag” under the newly introduced category, Tulang Isinulat Para Sa Mga Bata (poetry for children).

The Palanca Hall of Fame is the distinction given to winners in the literary competition who have won five first prizes in the annual awards, and who, at the same time, have consistently met the critical standards of the various boards of judges, and have maintained a reputation in literary circles worthy of peer recognition.

The foundation said 62 percent of this year’s awardees are first time winners.

National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera was also conferred the Palanca Awards Gawad Dangal ng Lahi.

The complete list of winners in the 59th Palanca awards:

Filipino Division

Dulang May Isang Yugto

1st – Layeta P. Bucoy (Doc Resurreccion: Gagamutin ang Bayan)

2nd – Liza C. Magtoto (Paigan)

3rd – Jose Dennis C. Teodosio (Asunto)

Sanaysay

1st – Reuel Molina Aguila (Ngunit Wala Akong Litrato Noong Nasa Kolehiyo Ako)

2nd – Jing Panganiban-Mendoza (Kumander)

3rd – Domingo G. Landicho, PhD (Kamay)

Tulang Isinulat para sa mga Bata

1st – Eugene Y. Evasco (May Tiyanak sa Loob ng Aking Bag)

2nd – Jesus M. Santiago (Kuwentong Matanda, Bersong Bata)

3rd – Michael M. Coroza (Munting Daigdig ng Dalit at Awit)

Kabataan Essay

1st – Axcel L. Trinidad (Si Ate Elsa, Si Aling Carmen, at Ako Laban sa

mga Nangungunang Bansa sa Mundo)

2nd – Johanna Rose E. Calisin (Nagkakaisang Isip, Damdamin at Lakas)

3rd – Maya Victoria S. Rojas (Humabol Ka, Pilipino!)

Dulang Ganap ang Haba

1st – Rodolfo C. Vera (Ismail at Isabel)

2nd – Reuel Molina Aguila (Sa Kanto ng Wakas at Katotohanan Ext.)

3rd – Sir Anril P. Tiatco (Miss Dulce Extranjera)

Maikling Kuwento

1st – No Winner

2nd – Rogelio Braga (“MGA”)

3rd – Jimmuel C. Naval (Ang Kamatayan ng Isang Linggo)

Tula

1st – Reagan R. Maiquez (Ilang Sandali Makalipas ang Huling Araw ng Mundo)

2nd – Alwynn C. Javier (Yaong Pakpak na Binunot sa Akin)

3rd – Charles B. Tuvilla (Sambutil na Daigdig sa Ilalim ng Pilik)

Maikling Kuwentong Pambata

1st – Genaro R. Gojo Cruz (Mahabang-mahabang-mahaba)

2nd – Michael M. Coroza (Ang mga Kahon ni Kalon)

3rd – Milagros B. Gonzales (Ang Nanay Kong Lola)

Dulang Pampelikula

1st – Seymour Barros Sanchez & Christian M. Lacuesta (Hiwaga)

2nd – Jerry B. Gracio (Muli)

3rd – Enrique Ramos (Moonlight Over Baler)

Regional Division

Short Story – Cebuano

1st – Corazon M. Almerino (Sugmat)

2nd – Richel G. Dorotan (Biyahe)

3rd – Ferdinand L. Balino (Mga Mananap sa Kagabhion)

Short Story – Hiligaynon

1st – Ferdinand L. Balino (Kanamit Gid Sang Arroz Valenciana)

2nd – Alice Tan Gonzales (Baha)

3rd – Joselito Vladimir D. Perez (Ang Santo Intiero)

Short Story – Iluko

1st – Danilo B. Antalan (Vigan)

2nd – Ariel S. Tabag (Dagiti Ayup Iti Bantay Quimmallugong)

3rd – Reynaldo A. Duque (Ti Kararua Ni Roman Catolico, Mannaniw, Nga Immulog Iti Impierno)

English Division

Full-length Play

1st – No Winner

2nd – No Winner

3rd – Floy C. Quintos (Fake)

One–act Play

1st – No Winner

2nd – No Winner

3rd – Violet B. Lucasi (Balangao)

Kabataan Essay

1st – Cristina Gratia T. Tantengco (The Benefits of Selflessness)

2nd – Vincen Gregory Y. Yu (Dreams and Pastures)

3rd – Angelita A. Bombarda (On Being Filipino: A Citizen to the World)

Poetry

1st – Vincenz Serrano (The Collapse of What Separates Us)

2nd – Eliza A. Victoria (Reportage)

3rd – Mark Anthony R. Cayanan (Placelessness: Poems from a Series)

Poetry Written for Children

1st – Edgardo B. Maranan (The Google Song & Other Rhymes for Children)

2nd – Heidi Emily Eusebio Abad (Child of Earth Poems)

3rd – H. Francisco V. Penones Jr. (Turtle and Other Poems for Children)

Short Story

1st – Sigfredo R. Iñigo (Home of the Sierra Madre)

2nd – Anne Lagamayo (Mr. & Mrs. Reyes and the Polka-dotted Sofa)

3rd – Luis Katigbak (Dear Distance)

Short Story for Children

1st – Kathleen Aton-Osias (Apolinario and the Name Trader)

2nd – Edgardo B. Maranan (The Artist of the Cave)

3rd – Paolo Gabriel V. Chikiamco (Dear Mr. Supremo)

Essay

1st – Edgardo B. Maranan (A Passage Through the Storm)

2nd – Erlinda Enriquez Panlilio (Saying Goodbye to the House)

3rd – Maria Teresa P. Garcia (Sweet of the Earth)

Hall of Fame Awards for 2009

Reuel Molina Aguila

1992- “How I Spent My Summer Vacation o Kung Papaano Ko Ipinaliwanag Sa Aking Mga Anak Ang Pagkatalo Ng Aking Kandidato Sa Nakaraang Eleksyon,” Sanaysay

1993- “May Katulong Sa Aking Sopas,” Sanaysay

2001- “Ampalaya,” Futuristic Fiction-Filipino

2005- “Baligho (Ikatlo sa Trilohiya),” Dulang Ganap Ang Haba

2009- “Ngunit Wala Akong Litrato Noong Nasa Kolehiyo Ako,” Sanaysay

Eugene Y. Evasco

2000- “Ang Maisisilid Sa Pandama,” Tula

2000- “Hilong Talilong,” Maikling Kuwentong Pambata

2001- “Mga Pilat Sa Pilak,” Sanaysay

2005- “Tag-Araw Ng Mga Ibong Hilaga,” Maikling Kuwentong Pambata

2009- “May Tiyanak Sa Loob Ng Aking Bag,” Tulang Isinulat Para Sa Mga Bata

Theater Down South presents the beloved classic, "Treasure Island" (Sept 20-Nov 29, 2009)

(clockwise from left) Daryl Zarraga, Juan Horacio Gonzales, Mikey Llorin, Joey Torres

Ahoy maties! Get ready for a thrilling, swashbuckling, rum-drinking adventure as Theater Down South presents the Prince Street Players version of “Treasure Island”, a musical by Jim Eiler and Jeanne Bargy. Directed by Michael Williams, and based on the classic novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, this story of pirates, mutiny on the high seas and buried treasure comes your way from September 20 through November 29 at the Insular Life Theater, Alabang!

(clockwise from left) George Schulze, MickoYabut, Kahna Cortez-Velasco

Theater Down South is a company dedicated to providing quality educational and family entertainment in the South Metro area. “Treasure Island” is their third production, following “Rapunzel” in 2008 and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in 2007. They also do acting workshops, corporate shows and other special events. The company not only hopes to revitalize the theatergoing scene in the area, but also seeks to provide performance opportunities for actors based in the South. Many of their members are based here, with a number of them coming from inside Ayala Alabang Village.

With a community theater just a stone’s throw away, there has never been a better time to introduce your children to the joy of live theater!

Chino Veguillas

Don't miss this spectacular musical staging to be held at the Insular Life Theater in Alabang. Show dates are as follows: September 20 (Sunday) and 27 (Sunday), October 11 (Sunday) and 31 (Saturday), November 8 (Sunday), 22 (Sunday) and 29 (Sunday). All shows are at 3pm.

For information, show booking and other inquiries, please contact Theater Down South thru (+63) 927.8336243, email info@theaterdownsouth.com or visit www.theaterdownsouth.com & www.ticketworld.com.ph. You may also contact Ticketworld by calling (632) 891.9999. Tickets are also available at the gate during the show dates.

Gantimpala Theater presents "Kanser [Noli Me Tangere]" (Aug 29-Sept 20, 2009)

(Text by Alwin Ignacio)

The second installment of Gantimpala Theater’s Four Classics, Kanser (Noli Me Tangere) penned by award-winning playwright Jomar Fleras, under the direction of Adriana Agcaoili, brings back on stage the life of the European educated Don Crisostomo Ibarra and his lady love Maria Clara, and the many interesting and intriguing characters of San Diego.

Director Adriana Agcaoili says, “The Noli Me Tangere, Dr. Jose Rizal’s first novel is the basis for Fleras’ award-winning play, Kanser. As a historical record, his novel is a powerful and very real testament that Rizal – and all the revolutionary Eliases, the victimized Sisas and Crispins, and the broken idealists like Ibarra – made for our motherland. As live theater, Fleras play makes for an entertaining two hours of watching and what is wonderful about it is that, it will really allow you to ponder on the many issues that it presents.”

The cast includes Jao Mapa (Crisostomo Ibarra), Fame Flores and Meliza Reyes (alternately portraying Maria Clara), Jojo Rieguera (alternate for Ibarra/Padre Salvi/Padre Syubila), Manolet Concepcion (Padre Damaso), Dante Balois (Pilosopong Tasyo), Ed Murillo (Capitan Tiago), Xeno Alejandro (Elias), Meldea Flor Formacil (Sisa), Irra Cenina (Padre Salvi/Padre Sybila/alternate for Mang-aawit), April Anne Dolot and Agnes Ramos (alternately portraying Doña Victorina), Hazel Orencio (Doña Consolacion), Niesty Lopera (Don Tiburcio), Vangie Inocencio (Tiya Isabel), John Zyke Snatos (Basilio), John Dencel Galoso (Crispin), Molts Meneses (Teniente Guevarra/Tarcilo), and Von Arroyo (Mang-awit).

“This is my first time to play the role of Crisostomo Ibarra and I must admit that this is a very challenging character,” says Jao Mapa. “Ibarra is an idealist, a young man educated from Europe who went home to spend his life with his beloved Maria Clara. When he comes home to San Diego, he sees that Filipinos were being oppressed by the Spaniards and even he, an ilustrado also experienced the oppression. As an actor, people must see my transformation from a naïve young man to a hurting and hunted enemy of the government.”

He adds, “I am very thankful to Gantimpala Theater for giving me the opportunity once more to work with them. I appreciate the discipline, hard work and the high level of professionalism of all the people who are part of this production. I just hope that I deliver what they expect from me and that our audiences will enjoy and learn from our play.”

Assisting director Agcaoili re-create the world of Crisostomo and Maria Clara are Jose Jeffrey Camañag (Associate Director), Andy Villareal (Lights Designer), Marianne Sedotes (Sets Designer), Albert Figueras (Costumes Designer), Darby Dizon (Choreographer), Jorge Cabullo (Production Manager), Wilmark Oliver Tabio (Stage Manager), and Tony Espejo (Artistic Director).

Performances are on August 29 (6pm), Open Air Auditorium, Luneta, Manila; September 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, and 13 (10am/2pm), AFP Theater, Quezon City; and September 18, 19, 20 (10am/ 2pm), SM South Mall, Las Piñas City.

Gantimpala Theater’s Kanser (Noli Me Tangere) is fully supported by the National Parks Development Committee.

For inquiries, please call the Gantimpala Theater Marketing Office, look for Ms. Glenda Agravante at (632) 899-5745/ 896-3503/ 474-5198 or visit: www.gantimpalatheater.multiply.com.

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TANYAG: A Trilogy of Palanca Award-Winning Plays

August 28 (FRI) -7pm / August 29 (SAT) - 3pm / August 30 (SUN) - 3pm

Philamlife Theater, United Nations Avenue, Manila

OUR LADY OF ARLEGUI

by Chris Martinez, directed by Dennis Marasigan

(First Prize, Dulang May Isang Yugto, 2007)

A student from UP finds himself trapped with a Muslim woman who runs a DVD stall in Arlegui St. in Manila when authorities raid the premises in search of pirated discs. Their reluctant efforts to overcome mutual mistrust end in interesting fashion in this comedy winner by the award-winning playwright of Welcome to Intelstar and Last Order sa Penguin and the films Bridal Shower and 100.

BAKA SAKALI

by J. Dennis Teodosio, directed by Dennis Marasigan

(Second Prize, Dulang May Isang Yugto, 2007)

A young man tries to convince his grandfather of the folly of entrusting their future on the possibility of winning a television game show. His efforts are in vain, resulting in a tragedy that befell many other Filipinos. This play inspired by true-to-life events is written by the same author of Geegee and Waterina.

ANG KALUNGKUTAN NG MGA REYNA

written and directed by Floy Quintos

(First Prize, Dulang May Isang Yugto, 2008)

The female President of the Philippines had an epiphany: what the country needs is a monarchy. She prepares to join the ranks of the world’s royalty by engaging the tutelage of a fashion designer who must bring taste and regal manners into the palace. Winner of four Gawad Buhay Awards (for Outstanding Production of a One-Act Play, Original Script, Actress and Direction). Written and directed by noted theater and television writer and director Floy Quintos.

CAST: SHAMAINE BUENCAMINO * BODGIE PASCUA * CES ALDABA* TUXQS RUTAQUIO with Acey Aguilar, Martha Nikko Comia, Abner Delina, Anna Deroca and Jerald Napoles

For queries, call (632) 8152246 or 8187201.

Or email: filmarts.manila@gmail.com

Ticket Prices: P300 (students) / P600 (regular); discounts available. Call Ticketworld # (632) 891-9999

Watch a PETA play on August 30: Pay only what you can!

For the opening of its flagship project on Children's Rights, PETA is opening a PAY-WHAT-YOU CAN offer for the first 100 reservations for both its 10am and 3pm show on August 30 of Ismail at Isabel.

Ismail at Isabel is a lyrical and melodic story that will forever change our view of the children of the streets. The narrative focuses on two children, Ismail at Isabel, a Christian and a Muslim who once lived in a village where Muslims and Christians lived harmoniously. Eventually shattered by war and violence they become refugees and get separated in the bustling city. Their only hope is to tell and re-tell stories and folktales ts at their parents once told them and to after all, find a place where peace reigns over people’s differences. Ismail at Isabel is written by Rody Vera and directed by Maribel Legarda. Performances are slated for August 28 to October 4, 2009 at the PETA Theater Center.

To avail of the promo, simply send us your name, contact number, and your pledge/donation on or before August 29, 2009 through this email address: petampro@yahoo.com. (Note: Maximum of 5 tickets per reservation.)

For more information, contact PETA Marketing at (632)4100821 or (632) 7256244 or +63917-8044428.

Ballet Manila's "Halo-Halo Extra Special" (August 21-30, 2009)

Ballet Manila's 2009-2010 Season kicks off with "Halo-Halo Extra Special" to be held at the Aliw Theater, CCP Complex in Pasay City on August 21 (7:30 pm), August 22 & 29 (1:00pm & 5:00 pm), August 23 & 30 (1:00 pm).

For more information:

Call: (+632) 400.0292 or (+632) 404.3086
Email: info@balletmanila.ph

Ballet Philippines' "Masterworks" (August 14-16, 2009)

In celebration of Ballet Philippines' 40^th year, the company will be opening the season with Masterworks, a showcase presenting significant works that have established Ballet Philippines as the flagship company in ballet and contemporary dance. From its extensive repertoire of over 400 works in classical and contemporary works, Masterworks will include Agnes Locsin's neo-ethnic Igorot; Edna Vida's Ensalada to the music of Ryan Cayabyab's "Mamang Kutsero," "Bakya Mo Neneng" and "Limang Dipang Tao"; Bam Damian's athletic pas de deux Evacuation; Gaano Kadalas..., created by the late Tony Fabella; Swimming the Ilog Pasig by Alden Lugnasin; William Carter's neo-classical ballet, Bach Concerto; BP Founding Artistic Director Alice Reyes' Romeo and Juliet; and Denisa Reyes' Te Deum.

Guest artists for Masterworks include the Manila Symphony Orchestra, UP Concert Chorus and the Greenhills Christian Fellowship Chancel Choir with soloists Janet Sabas Aracama, Raymond Roldan and Jeannelle Bihag-Roldan, and pianist Greg Zuniega.

Showing at the CCP Main Theater on: Aug 14, Friday 3pm & 8pm/ Aug 15, Saturday 3pm & 8pm/ and on Aug 16, Sunday 10am and 3pm.

For tickets, call (632) 551-1003 or 551-0221. Or visit http://balletphilippines.org

Alfred Urieta portrays Menandro in Gantimpala Theater's Florante at Laura

Migui Moreno as Florante and Alfred Urieta as Menadro

In Gantimpala Theater thirty-second season opener, the much revered awit Florante at Laura, under the direction of Soxie Topacio, Alfred Urieta portrays Menandro, the loyal best friend of the Albanian prince.

For the past seven years, Urieta has been part of Tony Espejo’s drama company. He started with taong bayan roles prior to getting “speaking parts” that includes Bugan in the Aliw Awards 2005 Non Musical Production The God Stealer, Sergeant Tirona in Bombita, one of the revival plays presented during the First Pearl Theater Festival, and as Basilio, in El Filibusterismo, his most favorite role and biggest acting break..

“What attracted me to do theater is the fact that it allows me to explore the different facets of my personality, and do the things I like which is primarily acting, then production work,” begins Alfred. “There is a whole process of creation when you are assigned to a role, it’s almost like you conceive it from your mind, and then you give it life and emotions. I enjoy doing theater stuff and I don’t mind whether I do a major or minor character.”

Being Menandro, the best friend and trustworthy comrade of Florante is a part that Urieta takes pride in doing and he is very much aware that this is not a “small” part.

“When I found out that I’m doing it, my first reaction was, ‘Oh? Menandro, cool!’ I can’t help but wonder why, at first,” he relates. “When my apprehensions died down, what stuck in my mind is that I have to give my best. As an actor, I must give whatever my director expects from me. Though this role has been performed before, people can expect a big difference with my portrayal.”

“He is a very stimulating director,” reveals Alfred when asked about Soxie Topacio, this is their third time working together. “He gives you simple notes after every rehearsal. The subtext of those notes is actually, you have to give more, you have to do more. With him, you can do whatever you want, and then he’ll give his comments if he thinks you’re going over board or if what you’re giving is not enough.”

How is Migui Moreno as Florante? “He is doing well,” he avers. “He is also working hard for his role. We are helping each other to establish rapport since we play best friends. We have to jive and that must be seen and translated on stage.”

He adds, “You see, if you read the awit, we are best friends since our days as student in Athens. We grew up together. We fight as a tandem in the same batalla and we do it because we love our home country, Albania. Personally, Migui and I talk a lot, share jokes, and help each other out in our scenes.”

As one of the senior apprentices of Gantimpala Theater’s Actors’ Company, he appreciates the fine comments given to him by senior members with regard to the quality of his acting.

“Wow! That’s a compliment,” he reacts. “With every role that they give me, I always worked hard. I think, the company noticed my commitment to do well in acting. So, when I finally got the chance to get a tough role (Basilio in El Filibusterimo), I gave it my best and luckily, nagtuloy-tuloy na ang magagandang characters. Frankly speaking, any actor, especially someone like me who is still a relative newbie, their confidence in me and my capabilities is very inspiring. Maganda pala yung ginagawa ko, and because of their vote of confidence, I refuse to be complacent. I will continue to learn, give my best and be professional, since that is what is expected of me.”

What can the audiences expect from this season’s Florante at Laura? “I think they will have a better appreciation and understanding of this literary masterpiece by Francisco Balagtas. They will feel definitely feel the actors. Direk Soxie and our assistant director, Roeder Camañag is working double time to ensure that we will give every one a good show. Makikita nila na this is Gantimpala Theater, and that every one will be getting their money’s worth.”

In the nearest future, the other roles he wishes to do for Gantimpala are Adolfo or Aladin, Elias in Kanser (Noli Me Tangere), Don Juan in Ibong Adarna.

Aside from acting, Urieta also does stage management work. He occasionally appears on TV. He is also a swimming instructor.

He concludes, “I hope that people will have a wonderful time when they watch Florante at Laura. This is a theater experience that you will not forget. Aside from the romantic love story of the two main characters, our company presents it as a komedya and I am sure, the audiences will remember and enjoy the marches and grand batalla. I say peace to every one!”

* * * * *

Performances are slated on August 1 (6pm) Open Air Auditorium, in Luneta, Manila, August 7, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16 (10am/2pm), AFP Theater in Quezon City and August 21, 22, and 23 (10am/2pm), SM Southmall in Las Piñas.

For information, bookings and ticket reservations, please call:
(632) 899-5745, 896-3503 or 474-5198.
Or visit: gantimpalatheater.multiply.com.

Migui Moreno & Jhen Olivar Play Leads in Gantimapala Theater's Florante at Laura

Jhen Olivar as Laura and Migui Moreno as Florante

Gantimpala Theater opens its thirty second season with Florante at Laura, with Migui Moreno and Jhen Olivar, playing its leads, under the direction of Soxie Topacio.

Florante at Laura is a Philippine literary classic; an awit made into a play and presented using the theater form of the komedya. The story is about the struggles and love of Florante and Laura of Albania during the warring period between the Albanians and Moors.

“I am excited and nervous to do the role,” says Moreno. “Excited because, this is my first time to work with Gantimpala Theater. When I auditioned, I had no expectations. I was willing to take any part for as long that I’ll be given the chance to work with them. Being Florante comes as a really big surprise.”

“He is a good son, a romantic, devoted lover, and a warrior,” describes Migui of his character. “In fact, being so in love with Laura proved to be his greatest weakness and Adolfo, his nemesis used this to his advantage.”

He continues, “Honestly, I am nervous because the role requires me to present so many emotions, not to mention my lines are really long and we have to deliver it with the right dicho. We even have batalla scenes. Whew! Despite all these, I am doing my best to give life to this character and I hope that the people will be happy with my performance.”

Another lucky first timer is Olivar. Jhen is a professional ramp, commercial and fashion model prior to bagging the role.

She shares, “When I auditioned for Gantimpala, I was not expecting anything and I did not even expect that I will pass the audition because it is my first time. To my surprise I got the role of Laura, and it’s not just a simple role, it’s a lead role. I will play Laura from the heart and I’m really positive about the outcome.”

“I am also happy that the people from Gantimpala are very considerate and friendly. Every one is approachable, from our director down to the staff. And every rehearsal day is a learning experience and I am very much inspired to be surrounded by dedicated and disciplined theater artists,” adds Jhen.

The Christian characters are Perry Escaño (Adolfo), Jose Jeffrey Camañag (Haring Linceo), Richard Manabat (Duke Briseo), Roselle Buenaventura (Reyna Floresca), Billy Parjan (Antenor), Glendel Dacumos and Alfred Urieta (alternately portraying Menandro), with Abner Delina Jr and Raymond Talavera (alternately playing Batang Florante/Tagapagsalaysay).

Representing the Moors are by Berl Angeles (Aladin), Marjorie Lorico (Flerida), Alex Guerrero (Sultan Ali-Adab), Molts Meneses (Osmalik), and Vic Ferrer (Emir).

Helping director Topacio realize the kingdoms of Albania and Persia are Roeder Camañag (Assistant Director), Joseph Mattheu (Lights Design), Norman Peñaflorida (Set Design), Gardy Labad (Music Composer), Noel Cabangon (Arranger), Nemi Pagtakhan/ Alex Guerrero (Choreographers/Speech Coaches), Pamela Hundana (Production Manager), and Michael King Urieta (Stage Manager).

Tony Espejo, Artistic Director states, “Beyond the romantic story between Florante and Laura, Aladin and Flerida, Balagtas’ awit is a well-disguised commentary on the ills of the society during the Spanish regime. It may be situated in the fictional kingdom of Albania but the conditions it depicts were realities taking place in the Philippines during its years of struggle for freedom. Despite the freedom that we experience now, the ills are still around and sadly, continue to escalate. We hope the eyes and minds of the young will be opened with regard to these realities. Through this play, we hope that they become more vigilant in doing their share to make our nation great again.”

* * * * *

Performances are slated on August 1 (6pm) Open Air Auditorium, in Luneta, Manila, August 7, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16 (10am/2pm), AFP Theater in Quezon City and August 21, 22, and 23 (10am/2pm), SM Southmall in Las Piñas.

For information, bookings and ticket reservations, please call:
(632) 899-5745, 896-3503 or 474-5198.
Or visit: gantimpalatheater.multiply.com.

Auditions for new PETA musical play

From Scratching on the Glass:

PETA is holding auditions for its 42nd theater season production of "Si Juan Tamad, Ang Diyablo at ang Limang Milyong Boto" (a musical comedy on virgin voters and the 2010 presidential elections).

When: July 25, Saturday (invitational) and July 26, Sunday (open audition), 3 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Where: Studio A & B, 3rd floor, PETA Theater Center, Eymard Drive, Bgy. Kristong Hari, E. Rodriguez, Q.C. (back of Quezon City Sports Club).

Prepare 2 memorized songs (English or Filipino, slow and fast) with minus one cd. Be ready to dance and read from the script. Bring 2x2 colored photo.

Roles up for grabs:
1. YOUNG MALE LEAD – 21 years old, charming, can sing and dance well, good comic timing
2. TWO FEMALE ENSEMBLE – 20 yrs and above, to play multiple roles, can sing & dance well, good comic timing
3. TWO MALE ENSEMBLE – 20 yrs and above, to play multiple roles, can sing & dance well, good comic timing

(Note: ENSEMBLE cast to play leads and second leads. YOUNG MALE LEAD is the only fixed role in the musical.)

Music and libretto by Vincent A. De Jesus. Contributing writers are Liza Magtoto and Anj Heruela, with set design by Boni Juan and direction by Phil Noble.

If interested, please call or text 0917-8834203 to set time of arrival before coming to audition.

Rehearsal period: August to mid-September 2009
Opening: Mid- September 2009 (subject to slight change), to go on tour until first quarter of 2010