Blog Feed: GIBBS CADIZ

Nonie Buencamino pays tribute to Daisy Hontiveros Avellana with haunting Sa Ugoy ng Duyan

Published on 2013-05-17 07:44:00

Performed at the necrological rites for National Artist for Theater Daisy Hontiveros Avellana this morning, May 17, 2013, Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (Main Theater), Cultural Center of the Philippines. With Ballet Philippines dancers (choreography

The year’s performances to remember–so far

Published on 2013-05-10 13:02:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 05.11.2013 COUNT THEM—22 PRODUCTIONS in just the first five months of the year, from the small two-character drama (“Red”) to the all-stops-out musical extravaganza (“Ibalong,” “Katy”). Local theater is at

Sa Wakas--nothing less than a prototype for the Pinoy jukebox musical

Published on 2013-04-26 11:14:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 04.27.2013 While we’re waiting for the definitive original Pinoy rock musical to appear, this production, borrowed music and all, will do–gloriously OF THE 20 SONGS by Sugarfree featured in “Sa Wakas,” the juke

First look: Christian Bautista and Karylle in Resorts World Manila's upcoming Cinderella

Published on 2013-04-23 05:38:00

Christian Bautista and Karylle sing Ten Minutes Ago, a number from the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical Cinderella, which they will headline at Resorts World Manila beginning October 2013. They were presented to the media at the presscon for the show th

The Graduate on stage is not The Graduate we know

Published on 2013-04-20 13:51:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 04.21.2013 THE RED FLAGS come up early in Repertory Philippines’ production of “The Graduate,” the screen-to-stage adaptation (running until April 28 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1) otherwise directed with customary glos

Rep's The Graduate opens tonight, runs until April 28

Published on 2013-04-05 07:57:00

Repertory Philippines presents the stage adaptation of one of the most powerful stories of sexual awakening and coming-of-age ever told, “The Graduate”--originally a novel by Charles Webb published in 1963, then made into a Hollywood film in 1967

Open auditions for Tanghalang Ateneo's Ang Mandaragit: Isang Orestaya

Published on 2013-04-01 11:20:00

Tanghalang Ateneo's 35th season-opener, "Ang Mandaragit: Isang Orestaya," will be holding OPEN AUDITIONS on April 15 (Monday) and April 17 (Wednesday), 5-8 p.m., at the Fine Arts Black Box Studio, Fine Arts Annex (Old Communication Building), Ateneo

Gantimpala Theater opens summer musical theater workshop

Published on 2013-04-01 10:21:00

Starting today up to May 11, Gantimpala Theater will hold the 2013 Summer Musical Theater Workshop for teens and young adults. Gantimpala Theater is 36-year-old dramatic arts company with a theater season of the Four Classics such as “Florante at

London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art holds Musical Theater workshop at Peta Theater Center, May 21-26

Published on 2013-04-01 10:11:00

London's most prestigious drama school, The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), holds a workshop in Asia for the first time through a course on Musical Theater at The PETA Theater Center this May 21 to 26. Founded in 1904 and one of the oldest dra

9 Works Theatrical holds summer workshops with Stage Camp

Published on 2013-04-01 10:03:00

Fresh from its staging of the romantic Broadway comedy musical “They’re Playing Our Song” which starred Nikki Gil and Lorenz Martinez, one of the country’s leading theater companies, 9 Works Theatrical, holds Stage Camp, a series of summer th

San Pedro Calungsod's life and example celebrated in stage play

Published on 2013-04-01 09:48:00

Francis O. Villacorta’s historical drama “San Pedro Calungsod, Batang Santo” tells the story of a young Visayan-Filipino from the 17th century who was canonized last October 21, 2012 at St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City and became the second F

First look: Dirty Dancing in Manila (opens July 2013)

Published on 2013-03-15 04:04:00

"Dirty Dancing" stars Gareth Bailey and Bryony Whitfield perform a sneak-peek version of the iconic dance finale of the film-turned-stage musical, at the lunch presscon at the Manila Diamond Hotel earlier today. The show opens at the Cultural Center

Theater Actors Guild sponsors opening night of Himala, The Musical: the 10th Anniversary Concert

Published on 2013-03-10 10:07:00

Ten years since it was first staged and earned commercial and critical acclaim, the Filipino musicale “Himala” goes onstage once again starting March 15 at the PETA Theater Center. “Himala, The Musical” is the theater adaptation of the film

Trumpets Playshop celebrates 20th year with blockbuster summer workshops, events

Published on 2013-03-10 09:49:00

To celebrate its 20th year, Trumpets Playshop goes full force this summer 2013 with a dynamic line-up of workshops and events. Playshop 2013 jumpstarts the summer on April 8 by welcoming participants to its Children's Theater, Musical Theater, Starp

Sa Wakas, a new Pinoy rock musical featuring the music of Sugarfree, opens April 13

Published on 2013-03-10 09:28:00

Culture Shock Productions, in cooperation with Fringe MNL, presents “Sa Wakas”, a new Pinoy rock musical. The show weaves together the songs of one of the country’s most beloved rock bands, Sugarfree, into a bittersweet love story that chronic

Rep's 'musical-comedy thriller' No Way to Treat a Lady opens March 1

Published on 2013-02-20 08:05:00

Repertory Philippines' second offering for the year 2013 is “No Way To Treat A Lady”, a musical comedy thriller with book, music and lyrics by award-winning author/composer Douglas J. Cohen. Direction is by Audie Gemora. The musical is based on

Bart Guingona and Joaquin Valdes in John Logan's Red--Feb. 22-23, March 1-2

Published on 2013-02-20 07:48:00

From Inquirer.net: The Necessary Theatre proudly announces the Asian premiere of “Red”, the 2010 Tony Award winner for best play written by American writer John Logan about the famous abstract expressionist artist Mark Rothko. “Red” by John

DLSU Harlequin Theatre Guild presents Sky Over Dimas, March 14-16

Published on 2013-02-18 08:36:00

DLSU Harlequin Theatre Guild (HTG), the premier and only recognized theatre organization of De La Salle University, presents on its 46th season Vicente Garcia Groyon’s “Sky Over Dimas”--adapted for the stage by Tim Dacanay of CSB-School Of Desi

Open auditions for Trumpets' new musical The Bluebird: A Magical Musical

Published on 2013-02-18 07:50:00

Trumpets, Asia's first professional gospel theater group, announces open auditions for “The Bluebird: A Magical Musical”, a brand-new original Filipino musical based on the play “The Bluebird”, by Belgian playwright Maurice Maeterlinck. The

Choose. Pick. Go. Or--watch all!

Published on 2013-01-17 08:24:00

ONGOING Tanghalang Ateneo’s ‘The King of the Birds’ at Rizal Mini Theater, until Feb. 2 Tanghalang Ateneo closes its 34th season with the first Philippine staging of “The King of the Birds,” from the classic Persian poem by Farid ud-Din

NARS, from Rody Vera's Filipino translation of Jean Genet's The Maids, at Miriam College-QC Feb. 6-9

Published on 2013-01-17 07:22:00

The first-ever graduating batch of Miriam College’s Theater Arts Program presents their recital acting thesis, "NARS", adapted from Rody Vera’s Filipino translation of Jean Jenet’s "The Maids", under the guidance of Tuxqs Rutaqio and artistic

Tanghalang Ateneo presents The King of the Birds, Jan. 17-Feb. 2

Published on 2013-01-16 03:54:00

"The King of the Birds", a philosophical fable turned theater piece about humanity’s search for salvation and meaning, closes Tanghalang Ateneo’s 34th season, with shows slated on January 17-19, 23-26, and January 30 to February 2 at 7 p.m., with

Video: Lea + People = my Christmas gift to you

Published on 2012-12-24 02:03:00

From my baul of video clips, this recording from Lea Salonga: The Broadway Concert, unavailable on YouTube until now. This track, the final encore, was included in the TV broadcast, from which this clip is excerpted, but not in the DVD release, which

BRAVO! BEST OF THEATER 2012: Ancient problems--but the market, wherever it is, is growing

Published on 2012-12-14 10:07:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 12.15.2012 NATIONAL ARTIST FOR LITERATURE F. Sionil José, in a recent column, called it “the ancient problems of our theater”—the lack of resources, say, and more gravely, the continuing lack of audiences, which w

More Christmas cheer--Jingle Bells by way of Lea by way of Barbra

Published on 2012-12-07 10:54:00

Lea sings the Christmas carol in the offbeat, gleefully demented arrangement originated by La Streisand in her 1967 A Christmas Album: Here's how the original franchisee did it (incidentally--she was 25 years old at that time, and a Jew making a

Noel Cabangon's Tuloy Ang Byahe Ngayong Pasko concert Dec. 13-14 at PETA Theater Center

Published on 2012-12-07 10:26:00

Noel Cabangon has everything to be thankful for this Christmas. Currently, he is one of the most bankable artists and popular singer-songwriters in the music industry. His album "Byahe" spawned numerous awards, including the elusive Double Platinum R

Eco art/music festival fundraiser opens Jan. 19 at Conspiracy Garden Café

Published on 2012-12-07 10:17:00

An art exhibit and music fest fundraiser for Save Philippine Seas’ Pawikan Watchers program opens on January 19, 2013 at the Conspiracy Garden Café, Quezon City. EndDanger, which features mixed media artworks from the group Artists for Nature and

The other Christian you should watch out for in Rama, Hari--now on its last weekend

Published on 2012-12-06 11:24:00

There's Christian Bautista playing Rama (alternating with OJ Mariano), and then there's the alternate to Robert Sena as Ravana, Christian Rey Marbella, about whom I knew nothing until he sang Awit ng Pagsinta at the show's presscon some weeks ago, an

Blake--with assist from Lea Salonga--ushers in Christmas with... Kumukutikutitap!

Published on 2012-12-06 07:24:00

Yes, the tongue-twisting Filipino Christmas carol, which Lea and Blake (the chart-topping British classical-crossover boy band) performed as the encore of the concert they headlined just an hour or so ago at the activity center of the newly reopened

Best of 2012 Italian films to be shown in 2nd Moviemov, the Italian film festival, Dec. 5-9 at Greenbelt 3

Published on 2012-11-29 09:35:00

Seven choice Italian films by various directors released in 2012, and a retrospective of films by Sergio Leone, the master of the “spaghetti western” genre, are the main offerings of the 2nd Edition of Moviemov: Italian Cinema Now, slated to run

Lisa Macuja is Aliw 'Entertainer of the Year', bags three other awards

Published on 2012-11-29 08:58:00

The classical arts reigned supreme when the 25th Aliw Awards recently gave its most coveted prize—the Entertainer of the Year Award—to prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde. Over the last two decades, the Entertainer of the Year Award had been gi

Over 40 films from 20 countries to be featured in Cinemanila 2012, opening Dec. 5 in Taguig

Published on 2012-11-29 08:50:00

The Cinemanila International Film Festival celebrates its 14th year back in Market! Market! Cinemas, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig and still in partnership with the Taguig City government through the leadership of Mayor Laarni Cayetano. This year’

Eugene, Aiza, Edgar Allan Guzman, Leo Valdez, Joanna Ampil et al.--25th Aliw Awards complete list of winners

Published on 2012-11-26 10:10:00

The Aliw Awards Foundation, Inc. has just concluded its 25th awards season with ceremonies held tonight at the Centennial Pavilion of the Manila Hotel. This year's awards honored productions and performances in Filipino theater and live entertainment

25th Aliw Awards--complete list of nominees/finalists and awardees*

Published on 2012-11-19 07:04:00

The 25th Aliw Awards will have its awards night on Nov. 26, 7 p.m., at the Manila Hotel. This year's edition honors productions and performances in Filipino theater and live entertainment for the period Oct. 1, 2011 to Sept. 30, 2012. Frank Rivera an

Instagrammed curtain calls

Published on 2012-11-18 09:50:00

Members of the Bohol Abatan River Cultural Collectives, with guiding light Lutgardo Labad (leftmost). What a moving, stirring show (DUHA KA ALIMPO SA DAGAT... BOHOL 1700) they gave this afternoon at the ongoing National Theater Festival, CCP. (Nov. 1

John Lapuz directs D'Emperor for Teatro Tomasino

Published on 2012-11-18 08:31:00

Teatro Tomasino’s first major offering for its 35th theater season promises pure entertainment and a different look into the fashion world. “D’Emperor” is a modern take on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Emperor’s New Clothes”, writte

Ateneo Entablado presents Jose Javier Reyes' Kung Pap’ano Binabalatan ang Butung-Pakwan, Nov. 24

Published on 2012-11-18 08:27:00

Ateneo Enterteynment para sa TAo, Bayan, LAnsangan, at DiyOs (ENTABLADO) continues its 30th Season by showcasing fresh talents in its production, "Kung Pap’ano Binabalatan ang Butung-Pakwan". Directed by Entablado alumni Zennon Gosalvez and Lemel

Potted Potter back in Manila Jan. 30-Feb. 3

Published on 2012-11-18 08:17:00

The smash hit “Potted Potter” returns to Manila on January 30-February 3 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, for nine shows only. “Potted Potter”, which had sold-out houses during the first season in Manila last August, condenses

Stageshow and the National Theater Festival—the return of the native

Published on 2012-11-16 10:31:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 11.17.2012 It was left to Mario O’Hara’s final work, an instant classic in our book, to sally forth and reclaim territory for freshly minted original Filipino material BY NATIVE, WE MEAN, of course, original Filipin

Phantom, Little Mermaid, King & I, Salonga, Domingo, Guzman lead nominees for 2012 BroadwayWorld Philippines Awards

Published on 2012-11-09 10:21:00

Lunchbox Theatrical Productions’ international touring production of Cameron Mackintosh and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera”; Atlantis Production’s Southeast Asian premiere of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”; Resorts Wor

Mind's Eye, starring Joy Virata and Jenny Jamora, makes world debut Nov. 9 at RCBC Theater

Published on 2012-11-09 09:57:00

"Mind’s Eye", a play based on an award-winning novel of the same name written by acclaimed children and young adults book writer Paul Fleischman, will have its world debut in the Philippines on November 9-10 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC

PETA's William at the National Theater Festival, Nov. 15

Published on 2012-11-09 09:36:00

The Philippine Educational Theater Association brings back "William," the rap musical that blends in Shakespeare, hip-hop and the struggles of teenage life in one exciting play. "William" joins theater performances from different parts of the countr

Cubao Pagkagat ng Dilim from Destiyero Theater Commune, opening Nov. 8

Published on 2012-11-04 09:53:00

Destiyero Theater Commune presents "Cubao Pagkagat ng Dilim", Tim Dacanay's adaptation of "Ang Mga Multo", "Ang Maligno", and "Ang Mga Manananggal" from Tony Perez' book "Cubao Pagkagat ng Dilim: Mga Kuwentong Kababalaghan". In "Ang Mga Multo", the

The Graduate, Boeing Boeing, The Producers and two more in Rep's new season

Published on 2012-11-04 09:38:00

The heart of the program of Repertory Philippines is its season of plays, staged from January to April and running every weekend of the year except for the months of May, June, and July. Each season features four plays ranging from musicals, comedy,

Jose Javier Reyes' new play Sayaw ng mga SENIORita, starring Joel Lamangan, Arnell Ignacio, BB Gandanghari et al, to debut at National Theater Festival, CCP

Published on 2012-10-23 11:02:00

Gantimpala Theater’s “Sayaw ng mga SENIORITA,” a dramatic-comedy play written by Jose Javier Reyes and directed by Jun Pablo, will debut at the forthcoming National Theater Festival presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. The shows at the theater fest are on November 16, Friday (3 p.m. and 8 p.m.), at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute. Multi-awarded directors and actors give life to Reyes' script: Soxie Topacio as Rading de Guz [..]

Dulaang UP's Orosman at Zafira back for two shows at the National Theater Festival, CCP

Published on 2012-10-23 10:31:00

The Cultural Center of the Philippines and Dulaang UP are bringing back the critically-acclaimed blockbuster production of Francisco Baltazar’s "Orosman at Zafira" for the 4th National Theater Festival this November at the CCP. "Orosman's" scheduled performances are on November 17, 2012 (8 p.m.) and November 18, 2012 (3 p.m.) at Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (Little Theater). This production, which first ran in 2008, was restaged in 2010 to sold-out, standing-room-only performances at the Wi [..]

Sorsogon seminarians hold reunion; gear up for Bicol-wide confab

Published on 2012-10-23 09:58:00

The Our Lady of Peñafrancia Seminary (OLPS) Alumni Foundation will hold its general alumni homecoming on Oct. 27 in connection with the 67th anniversary of the seminary. Highlight of the reunion will be the concelebrated Mass to be officiated by Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes. Main agenda of the general assembly of the OLPS Alumni Foundation is the first regional gathering of Bicolano former seminarians on Dec. 7 and 8 in Legazpi City. During the general assembly, alumni from the St. Gregory [..]

UP Playwrights' Theater restages hit children’s play Umaaraw, Umuulan, Kinakasal ang Tikbalang

Published on 2012-10-22 09:16:00

Be enthralled by the colorful creatures of Philippine folk literature and mythology as the UP Playwrights’ Theater restages "Umaaraw, Umuulan, Kinakasal ang Tikbalang" starting Nov. 21 at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, University of the Philippines, Diliman. This Dulaang UP hit production from last season was adapted by Rody Vera from Gilda Cordero-Fernando's children’s short story "The Magic Circle", and directed by José Estrella. Relive Jepoy and Galis’ journey to a magical wonder [..]

Video: Karylle, Christian Bautista sing Rama, Hari

Published on 2012-10-18 10:50:00

Our first look at how Karylle and Christian Bautista will sing the songs and incarnate the roles made famous in the original run by Kuh Ledesma and Basil Valdez. The presscon at the ABS-CBN Building last Wednesday also presented Kalila Aguilos and OJ Mariano as the alternate Sita and Rama, and Robert Sena as Ravana alternating with (for my money, the true revelation of the afternoon) Cebu-based artist Christian Rey Marbella, who sang a commanding Awit ng Pagsinta. However, since uploading all [..]

Theater pioneer Naty Crame-Rogers, 90, to play Candida for the last time in Philippine Drama Company-Sala Theater's A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino

Published on 2012-10-18 10:00:00

As part of its 27th season, the Philippine Drama Company-Sala Theater is staging Nick Joaquin’s elegy in three scenes, “A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino”, on October 26 (8 p.m.) and October 27-28 (7 p.m.) at The Philippine Drama Company’s Amingtahanan Sala Theater, located at #40 Stella Maris St., Bo. Kapitolyo, Pasig. What makes this production different from all other productions of the same play? Naty Crame-Rogers, who has dedicated her lifetime to the cause of Philippine theater [..]

Video: Isay Alvarez, Dulce headline January 2013 revival of landmark Pinoy musical Katy!

Published on 2012-10-15 12:10:00

And mallgoers at The Podium were treated to a grand sneak peek last Sunday evening when Isay and Dulce, along with other cast members such as Tirso Cruz III, Epy Quizon (who will play the young Dolphy during Katy dela Cruz's bodabil days), Lou Veloso, Gian Magdangal and the rest of the ensemble, performed six songs from the landmark Cayabyab-Javier Reyes musical. The hardworking people behind BroadwayWorld.com/Philippines have uploaded videos of three numbers here, including the musical's now- [..]

Lisa Macuja's 'Swan Song Series' continues with Giselle and Carmen

Published on 2012-10-15 09:49:00

After portraying the fiery Kitri in “Don Quixote”, prima ballerina Lisa Macuja Elizalde continues the second year of her Swan Song Series with her last full-length performances of two contrasting ballet roles. First, she dances as the willowy lead character in “Giselle” on October 19, 7:30 p.m., and October 21, 5:30 p.m., at the Aliw Theater, as partnered by David Makhateli, formerly of The Royal Ballet. Also featured are Ballet Manila and the Manila Symphony Orchestra with Alexander Vi [..]

Tanghalang Pilipino’s silver anniversary coffee-table book, written by Amadis Ma. Guerrero, now available

Published on 2012-10-15 09:35:00

Tanghalang Pilipino has produced a coffee-table book, “Tanghalang Pilipino: Celebrating 25 Years of Philippine Theater,” to commemorate its recently concluded silver anniversary. Spearheaded by artistic director Fernando “Nanding” Josef and written by Inquirer contributing writer Amadis Ma. Guerrero, the 171-page hardcover features a jacket with the image of actress Noemi Manikan-Gomez in costume as the character Angelita from “Dalagang Bukid,” the company’s inaugural production [..]

Markki Stroem, Cheska Ortega et. al. in Disney's Camp Rock: The Musical by Repertory Philippines, opening Nov. 16

Published on 2012-10-15 09:25:00

Repertory Philippines announces the cast of “Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical”, which opens Nov. 16 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Makati City. “Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical” is based on the hit Disney Channel original movies “Camp Rock” and “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam” which offer songs, dances and light romance pitched toward tween/teen audiences. Morisette Amon plays the role of Mitchie Torres, while Markki Stroem is Shane Gray, a spoiled pop star and charismatic lead singer [..]

First look: Tanghalang Pilipino's Stageshow (two-weekend run only)

Published on 2012-10-11 10:20:00

My rough impression after last night's opening: Needs a bit more work, but Tanghalang Pilipino's new production Stageshow does stout-hearted justice to the vigor, color and humanity of (playwright) Mario O'Hara's creative vision. What it's all about: After the successful run of its stage play, “Walang Kukurap”, Tanghalang Pilipino pays tribute to the stage artists of yesteryears through its 3rd theater season offering called “Stageshow”, a musical that runs October 10-21, 2012, 3 p.m. [..]

Disney's Aladdin, by Atlantis Productions, opens Nov. 16 at Meralco Theater

Published on 2012-10-11 10:10:00

After the success of its productions of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” in 2005 and “Disney's The Little Mermaid” last year, Atlantis Productions proudly announces that it has been handpicked by Disney Theatricals to stage the Asian Premiere of its newest full-length stage musical, “Disney's Aladdin”. Based on the much-loved animated film, “Disney's Aladdin” tells the story of a street-smart commoner whose whole life changes with one rub of a magic lamp. The brand-new romantic [..]

Special pre-Halloween show of Rep Children's Theater's The Wizard of Oz, Oct. 28

Published on 2012-10-11 09:53:00

Philstage's Performing Arts Appreciation Program, through a grant donated by the Telus International Community Board, sponsored 50 children from the Gawad Kalinga community to watch Rep Children's Theater's The Wizard of Oz last Sept. 30. On October 28, Rep Children's Theater will hold a special pre-Halloween performance of its ongoing production “The Wizard of Oz” at Onstage Greenbelt 1, 2:30 p.m. Audience members who dress up in Halloween costumes will automatically join a raffle for a s [..]

12 women, one man, zero passion--Nine in a nutshell

Published on 2012-10-07 11:52:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 10.08.2012 The musical’s already fuzzy center just about disappeared with fatal miscasting “LA BELLA CONFUSIONE” was the original title Federico Fellini wanted to give his film that eventually became “8 1/2,” which then became the unacknowledged basis for the 1982 Tony-winning Broadway musical “Nine” that has music and lyrics by Maury Yeston and book by Arthur Kopit (with assist from Mario Fratti’s Italian play “Six Passionate Women”). The phra [..]

Play entries and showdates--4th National Theater Festival, CCP, Nov. 8-18

Published on 2012-10-04 12:41:00

TANGHALANG AURELIO TOLENTINO STAGESHOW Tanghalang Pilipino November 7, 2012 at 8 PM November 8, 2012 at 8 PM (Invitational) November 9, 2012 at 3 PM Mario O’hara’s raunchy homage to the twilight years of an almost forgotten entertainment form, starring real-life thespian couple Shamaine Centenera and Nonie Buencamino and a host of celebrities in special cameo appearances. Choreographed by Denisa Reyes and directed by Chris Millado. DUHA KA ALIMPO SA HABAGAT...Bohol 1700 (Two Eyes of the Mo [..]

Tanghalang Pilipino mounts Mario O'Hara's last play, Stageshow--opens Oct. 10

Published on 2012-10-02 08:41:00

After the successful run of its stage play, “Walang Kukurap”, Tanghalang Pilipino pays tribute to the stage artists of yesteryears through its 3rd theater season offering called “Stageshow”, a musical that will run October 10-21, 2012, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., at the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theater). Written by the late director-actor-playwright Mario O’Hara, “Stageshow” is a poignant and emotionally charged play that focuses on the [..]

The Woman in Black premieres Oct. 19 at Teatrino Greenhills

Published on 2012-10-02 08:23:00

Dulaang Kalay ang Word of Mouth Theater Philippines present “The Woman in Black”, a stage adaptation of Susan Hill’s highly regarded 1983 novel of the same name, on October 19, 8 p.m. at Teatrino, Greenhills Promenade, San Juan City. Additional performances are on October 20 at 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. In 1989, ITV produced a made-for-television film adaptation of the novel. Directed by Herbert Wise, the film earned four BAFTA awards: Best Design, Best Film Sound, Best Make-Up and Best Original [..]

Love, sacrifice and magic in Gantimpala Theater's retelling of Ibong Adarna

Published on 2012-09-26 09:30:00

Gantimpala Theater retells the folk tale of "Ibong Adarna" in a stage production written by Ed Maranan, under the direction of Roobak Valle. "Ibong Adarna"'s mythical story is expressed in narrative song and poetry called "corrido", and is considered a cornerstone of Philippine literature. The story is about a fabled bird that sings a total of seven songs with seven color changes, which could either enchant anyone to sleep, turn him into stone or heal a deadly sickness. The songs of the elusiv [..]

Kids Acts Philippines' Peter Pan, A Musical Adventure in Neverland opens Sept. 28 at Star Theater, Star City

Published on 2012-09-26 09:07:00

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Kids Acts Philippines, Inc. presents “Peter Pan--A Musical Adventure in Neverland” starting September 28, 2012 at the Star Theater, Star City, CCP Complex, Pasay City, Metro Manila. Adapted from the book by James Matthew Barrie, with book, lyrics and direction by Luigi Nacario and music by Eugene Belbis, “Peter Pan” retells the classic adventure of the boy who doesn’t want to grow up. This show comes to life on stage with the help of a state-of- [..]

PETA's William in special performance at CCP, Sept. 28

Published on 2012-09-26 08:43:00

After dominating the recent Philstage Gawad Buhay awards, the Philippine Education Theater Association (PETA) is bringing back the award-winning Shakespeare rap musical “William” for a special show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines this September 28. “William”, about teenagers who develop a love for the Bard while preparing monologues from William Shakespeare for a class project, took home seven trophies, including Outstanding Play, Outstanding Direction for Maribel Legarda, Out [..]

Bona blunders, Walang Kukurap blinks

Published on 2012-09-23 11:17:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 09.24.2012 THE PLAYWRIGHT’S NAME above the title? It’s rare in these parts, where stellar billing routinely goes to the actors and, on occasion, to a few star directors. Tanghalang Pilipino’s (TP) ongoing “Walang Kukurap,” however, gives its playwright Layeta Bucoy’s name pride of place above the masthead, so to speak—a gesture suggesting not only that this play’s voice and vision are unmistakably hers, but also that Bucoy’s stature is now good e [..]

Ang Bagong Harana, now on its 3rd rerun, at RCBC Theater Oct. 18-28

Published on 2012-09-18 06:08:00

In the midst of so many foreign pop acts and musical productions from Broadway and the West End playing in Manila, one small theatrical effort made waves last year. It was a revue featuring traditional and contemporary Filipino songs, sung by a troupe of young, relatively unknown but dedicated classical singers. The show was the Philippine Opera Company's “Ang Bagong Harana”. “'Ang Bagong Harana' was envisioned as love song to our country,” says Karla Gutierrez, who heads the Philipp [..]

Joy Virata, Jenny Jamora headline Mind's Eye, a new play opening Nov. 9

Published on 2012-09-18 05:34:00

Joy Virata and Jenny Jamora lead the cast of "Mind’s Eye", a play based on an award-winning novel, which will have its worldwide theatrical debut in the Philippines on Nov. 9-10 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City. Written by award-winning children’s book author Paul Fleischman, "Mind’s Eye" celebrates the power of imagination through literature, poetry and the arts. It is about the relationship between 88-year-old Elva and 16-year-old Courtney in a nursing home in [..]

Workshop weekends this October-December at PETA

Published on 2012-09-18 05:21:00

Worksops no longer have to wait for summer breaks. The Philippine Educational Theater Association has designed a way to fit theater workshops into the schedule of students and professionals. PETA introduces Workshop Weekends. Its courses include Creative Musical Theater II, Basic Acting, Teen Theater, and Children’s Theater, with each course accepting only 25 students. The workshop consists of nine sessions with six hours each. All sessions fall on Saturdays (Oct. 27; Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24; De [..]

4PLAY--four new original plays from Tanghalang Ateneo

Published on 2012-09-18 05:14:00

[Text by Niki Calma] Tanghalang Ateneo’s 34th Season, “Journeys”, highlights the many tours that the company will make this year and the rites of passage that our young artists will embark in their theater life. “4PLAY”, the company’s latest offering, features four new and original plays by four young directors at the start of their professional artistic journeys. “4PLAY” also features the company’s batch of newcomers, all at the onset of their very own journeys in the thea [..]

Something wonderful opens Sept. 15 at Resorts World Manila--an all-Filipino The King and I

Published on 2012-09-13 12:52:00

Resorts World Manila's all-Filipino production of "The King and I" opens September 15, 2012 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. "The King and I", the fifth masterpiece of the celebrated tandem of Rodgers and Hammerstein, is the story of a widowed English school teacher who travels to Siam to serve as tutor to the many children of the King. Anna’s task of introducing the kingdom to the modern world brings about disputes with the King whom he learned to respect and love over time. Consider [..]

Jett Pangan, Cherie Gil, Eula Valdez, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Ima Castro, Carla Guevara-Lafortesa et al--casting coup for Atlantis Productions' Nine

Published on 2012-09-12 08:07:00

Atlantis Productions has pulled a casting coup for its upcoming star-studded production of the Tony Award Winning musical "Nine," opening Sept. 21 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City. The once-in-a-lifetime cast of movie stars, musical theater icons, recording artists and rock stars is led by Jett Pangan as filmmaker Guido Contini, a role originated on Broadway by Raul Julia, played in the revival by Antonio Banderas and in the film version by Daniel Day Louis. Menchu [..]

Tanghalang Pilipino's Walang Kukurap opens this Friday, Sept. 14

Published on 2012-09-12 07:07:00

Tanghalang Pilipino's latest production, "Walang Kukurap", is an original play that combines traditional theater with live interviews and unscripted performances to blur the line between reality and fiction, as it attempts to shine a light on the politics and practices that define public governance in the Philippines today. Created by the theater collective of playwright Layeta Bucoy, director Tuxqs Rutaquio, TP artistic director Nanding Josef and the TP Actors Company, "Walang Kukurap" is a su [..]

Rep holds special show of The Wizard of Oz for marginalized kids on Sept. 30

Published on 2012-09-11 08:45:00

The Repertory Children’s Theater will hold a special performance of “The Wizard of Oz” on September 30, 2012, 2:30 p.m., at Onstage, 2/F Greenbelt 1, Makati City. Over 250 children from marginalized areas of Cavite and Quezon City will be attending the event courtesy of generous private sponsors. Repertory Philippines welcomes groups who wish to sponsor other children who would otherwise not be able to enjoy the show. Tickets are also available for regular ticket buyers. “The primary g [..]

A pinnacle moment: Bona meets Bona

Published on 2012-09-11 08:28:00

Surreal describes the moment when two Bonas of different generations finally met on one stage. Eugene Domingo was stunned to see her idol, the original Bona, Nora Aunor, watching Philippine Educational Theater Association's (PETA) stage play where she plays the title role. Aunor came unannounced accompanied by writer Ricky Lee and actress Chanda Romero last September 1 at The PETA Theater Center. During the curtain call, Aunor stood clapping while Domingo took a bow before a very pleased audien [..]

Dulaang UP's production of Chekhov's The Seagull/Ang Tagak opens Sept. 19

Published on 2012-09-06 11:45:00

This September, Dulaang UP brings to the stage one of the best-known and best-loved classics in theater, Anton Chekhov’s "The Seagull", featuring the latest English translation by Tom Stoppard, and the Filipino translation titled "Ang Tagak" by the late National Artist for Theater and Literature, Rolando Tinio. This production, directed by Dulaang UP founder and former artistic director, Prof. Tony Mabesa, will be staged both in English and Filipino, starting on Sept. 9, 2012, at the Wilfrid [..]

Ped Xing: Tatawid Ka Ba Kahit Nakamamatay?, from UP Repertory Company

Published on 2012-09-06 11:12:00

As part of its 40th anniversary celebration, the UP Repertory Company and the Office for Initiatives in Culture and the Arts present the action-comedy play “Ped Xing: Tatawid Ka Ba Kahit Nakamamatay?” Employing a distinct form of theater called “tula-dula”, which is the signature style of The UP Repertory Company, “Ped Xing: Tatawid Ka Ba Kahit Nakamamatay?” is about five ordinary townsmen who scheme to design the perfect assassination of their town’s mayor. Each of the five is mo [..]

Watch: Patikim ng Phantom

Published on 2012-08-28 06:18:00

Two clips of musical excerpts performed earlier today at the press preview--the scenes obviously chosen to highlight The Phantom of the Opera's main strengths: vocal fireworks and visual opulence. The first features the last bars of the title song, sung (impressively) by Jonathan Roxmouth as the Phantom and Claire Lyon as Christine. The second is from the spectacular Masquerade set piece that opens Act 2, the bad-ass moment for the musical's lavish production design and Maria Bjornson costumes. [..]

The #SottoPlagiarismProtest, from where I sat

Published on 2012-08-24 09:17:00

I came in a bit late into the viral Twitter campaign, which started this way, according to Rappler.com: The hashtag was started by Twitter user Brian Paul Giron (@tikbalang), a history lecturer from the Ateneo de Manila University, Thursday, August 23 as an act of protest against Sotto's plagiarism. “Senator Sotto needs to learn that the internet will fight back when you abuse it; and there is no excuse for plagiarism,” he tweeted. “In protest of his defense of plagiarism I will begin mi [..]

One more weekend for Tanghalang Pilipino's 'glorious sarswela' Walang Sugat

Published on 2012-08-22 10:31:00

Vladimir Bunoan, ABS-CBN.com: Tanghalang Pilipino's latest staging of "Walang Sugat" is competent and entertaining, as expected from a classic work... [Cris] Villongco gave a more assured performance here, in keeping with the play's general depiction of stronger women compared with the Maria Clara stereotype of the period. But it was the support characters who truly gave memorable performances, led by Jonathan Tadioan as Tenyong's sidekick Lucas, who simply allowed the character's innate comedic [..]

ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates the music of John Williams in its first solo concert

Published on 2012-08-22 09:19:00

The newly-formed ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra will play well-loved movie scores of legendary composer John Williams in its first solo concert on Sept. 2, 6 p.m., at the Meralco Theater. Dubbed as “The Magic of John Williams,” the concert will celebrate the composer’s 80th birthday and will feature most of his contributions to film music in a span of six decades. From the adventurous bicycle chase in “E.T.” to the thrilling sea hunt in “Jaws,” the haunting melodies of “Schindle [..]

Delight/Delirium--four one-act plays--at Teatro Hermogenes Ylagan, UP Diliman

Published on 2012-08-22 09:01:00

As his final output as a Creative Writing student, budding young playwright Riley Palanca offers "Delight/Delirium", a festival of four one-act plays, under the supervision of multi-award-winning writer Paolo Manalo. It runs August 31-September 2 at the Teatro Hermogenes Ylagan, Faculty Center, University of the Philippines, Diliman. This festival of four one-act plays, under the direction of Arkel Mendoza, Chic San Augstin, J Victor Villareal and Katte Sabate, looks into that triggering inci [..]

Gantimpala Theater's Kanser (Noli Me Tangere) returns

Published on 2012-08-22 08:43:00

On the occasion of its 35th theater season, Gantimpala Theater presents the longest-running Philippine theater classic “Kanser”. Based on Rizal's novel “Noli Me Tangere” and adapted for the stage by award-winning playwright Jomar Fleras, “Kanser” was first staged in 1980 at the CCP. The current production has Adriana Agcaoili and Jheyar Caguimbal as directors. Why an adaptation of “Noli”? Because, says Agcaoili, “As live theater, it makes for an entertaining two hours of wat [..]

Eugene Domingo as Bona--this early, 'Exciting!'

Published on 2012-08-14 11:23:00

She's about to play Bona in the PETA stage adaptation of the Lino Brocka-Nora Aunor classic film, with Soxie Topacio directing and Layeta Bucoy adapting the script. Edgar Allan Guzman co-stars in the Philip Salvador role, but this time as a TV talent search matinee idol. Quite an ideal pairing--the Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively, in last year's Cinemalaya (she for Ang Babae sa Septic Tank, he for Ligo Na U, Lapit Na Me). But how are they on stage? Here's early--and very reliable--bu [..]

Ballet Manila opens 17th season with Alamat: Si Sibol at si Gunaw, an environmental tale

Published on 2012-08-14 10:41:00

To open its 17th performance season, Ballet Manila brings back “Alamat: Si Sibol at si Gunaw”, an all-Filipino original production that combines magic, myth and a message of love for Mother Earth. Presented by the Manila Broadcasting Company, Bookmark, Aliw Theater and Star City, with Manila Hotel as major sponsor, “Alamat: Si Sibol at si Gunaw” goes onstage on August 24, 25 and 26, and September 1 and 2 at the Aliw Theater, CCP Complex, Pasay City. “Alamat is a call to nurture the e [..]

Lampara Publishing House and PETA hold Kuwentong Bata, Kuwentistang Bata story-telling competition

Published on 2012-08-14 10:21:00

In its aim to promote the love for reading among children, Lampara Publishing House Inc., one of the leading children's books publishers in the country, has partnered with the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) to bring “Kuwentong Bata, Kuwentistang Bata”, the 2012 Lampara Story-telling Competition. LAMPARA and PETA invite elementary school students to join this year's competition. There will be two categories: Category A--Grades 1-4, and Category B--Grades 5–7. Finals will [..]

The visual feast that is Resorts World Manila's The King And I

Published on 2012-08-03 09:39:00

The show doesn't open until September 15, but to go by the sneak peek recently given the media, this Freddie Santos-directed production is pulling out all the stops to create a sumptuous, eye-popping spectacle. Watch: From BroadwayWorld.com/Philippines: Prolific stage and concert director Freddie Santos directs “The King and I”, which features Leo Valdez and Bo Cerrudo as the King, and Monique Wilson and Shiela Valderrama as Anna Leonowens. Winner of five Tony Awards, “The King and [..]

Dulaang UP stages Chekhov's The Seagull and its Filipino adaptation, Ang Tagak

Published on 2012-08-03 09:02:00

A seagull is shot and everything unravels. Dulaang UP’s second offering for its 37th Season, "The Seagull (Ang Tagak)", is widely considered to be the greatest work of master dramatist Anton Chekhov. It runs September 19-October 7, 2012 at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, Palma Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman. Directed by Tony Mabesa, the play will be staged both in English (translation by Tom Stoppard) and Filipino (translation by Rolando Tinio). The production stars theater [..]

PETA's stage adaptation of Bona, starring Eugene Domingo, opens Aug. 24

Published on 2012-08-03 08:33:00

The Philippine Educational Theater Association opens its 45th theater season this August with a stage adaptation of the classic film "Bona". Originally directed by National Artist for Film and one of PETA's founding members Lino Brocka, "Bona" is about a young schoolgirl, played by Nora Aunor, who became a die-hard fan of Gardo, a wannabe actor (Philip Salvador). Aunor's portrayal of "Bona" won her the Best Actress Award in the 1980 Gawad Urian Awards. The film, written by Cenen Ramones, was a [..]

Tanghalang Ateneo's Sintang Dalisay--triumphant in Minsk, Belarus--back for a rerun until Aug. 17

Published on 2012-08-02 09:05:00

By Walter Ang in the Philippine Daily Inquirer: Tanghalang Ateneo opens its 34th season in August with a restaging of “Sintang Dalisay,” an “awit” (metrical romance poetry using dodesyllabic or 12-syllable verse) version of William Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet” using translations by G.D. Roke and National Artist for Literature Rolando Tinio. Romeo and Juliet are now Rashiddin and Jamila, star-crossed lovers living in Sempurna, a fictional Islamic community, and fleeing from famil [..]

Two international performers headline Potted Potter in Manila, opening Aug. 28

Published on 2012-08-02 08:38:00

The smash spoof “Potted Potter”, which runs in Manila for 10 shows only, from August 28 to September 2, at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, is a 2012 Olivier Award Nominee for Best Entertainment and Family Show takes that promises to take on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a real-life game of Quidditch) into 70 hilarious minutes. Created by double Olivier Award Best Entertainment nominees Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, the show featu [..]

Moliere's Le Malade Imaginaire (The Imaginary Invalid), now the Filipino adaptation Le Praning Du Sining

Published on 2012-07-30 10:43:00

The graduating students of the AB-Production Design and AB-Technical Theater program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Design & Arts (SDA) present Moliere’s last comedy masterpiece, "Le Malade Imaginaire (The Imaginary Invalid)". Two versions of "Le Malade Imaginaire" will be staged. The first version adheres to the classical tradition of the Commedia Dell’arte, a theatrical form that originated in Italy and became popular in Europe in the 15th century. The other is an [..]

Rep Children's Theater presents The Wizard of Oz, opening Aug. 18

Published on 2012-07-30 10:27:00

Beginning August 18, at Onstage, Greenbelt 1 in Makati City, Repertory Philippines' Children's Theater is staging “The Wizard of Oz”, considered the greatest family musical of all time. The show runs until December 16, 2012. “The Wizard of Oz” is a stage adaptation of the classic children's book by L. Frank Baum, with music by Jeanne Bargy and Jim Eiler and book and lyrics by Jim Eiler. (Please note: This musical adaptation is NOT based on the MGM film, nor does it include any of the so [..]

Ateneo Blue Repertory presents 13: The Musical, opening July 25

Published on 2012-07-24 10:25:00

Ateneo Blue Repertory's latest production, opening July 25, is “13: The Musical”, with music by Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown, who has been hailed as “one of Broadway’s smartest and most sophisticated songwriters since Stephen Sondheim” (Philadelphia Inquirer). “13: The Musical” follows the story of Evan Goldman, a New Yorker on the brink of turning 13 years old. When his parents get divorced, he is forced to move to the “middle-of-nowhere” Appleton, Indiana, [..]

Two Filipino dance artists perform in Agnes Locsin's Puno: Pangatlong Galaw

Published on 2012-07-24 10:11:00

Ugat, Dahon, Puno. Thus is the natural flow of the growth and flourishing of trees, and the natural flow of Agnes Locsin's Alay Sa Puno series, a tribute to trees, a dirge for their disappearance, and a plea for reforestation. This August, the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City will present the third of the series--"Puno: Pangatlong Galaw", a one-hour concert a deux directed by Locsin in a collaborative choreography with dancers Gaye Galiluyo and Georgette Sanchez. Following "Ugat: Unang Gala [..]

South African Phantom, Australian Christine headline international cast of The Phantom of the Opera-Manila

Published on 2012-07-24 09:54:00

Philippine audiences will be able to enjoy outstanding performances from some of the leading actors in the international theater industry when the world’s greatest musical, “The Phantom of the Opera”, opens at the CCP Main Theater in Manila from August 25. These include: JONATHAN ROXMOUTH as The Phantom. South African-born Jonathan has received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career. For his outstanding performance as The Phantom for the show’s South African season, he wa [..]

8th Cinemalaya Film Festival unreels today at CCP, Trinoma and Greenbelt 3

Published on 2012-07-19 11:12:00

Twenty-five new digital films will compete in the 2012 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and Competition on July 20-29, 2012 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Greenbelt 3 Makati and Trinoma, Quezon City. This year, Cinemalaya gets even bigger with the addition of a new major venue at Trinoma in Quezon City, making the reach of Cinemalaya even wider and bigger. The addition of Trinoma as a third major venue for the festival is part of the vision of Cinemalaya organizers to make th [..]

PETA's William, 2011 Gawad Buhay! awardee for Best Play, returns July 27-29

Published on 2012-07-19 10:11:00

The Philippine Educational Theater Association's 2011 production of "William", which attempts to familiarize young people with the beauty of Shakespeare's works through rap and hip-hop, is back for a one-weekend rerun at The PETA Theater Center on July 27-29. "William" harvested a total of seven top prizes at the recent Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards, including Outstanding Play, Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Play, Outstanding Original Script for Ron Capinding, and Outstanding Stage Direc [..]

The show goes on for Gantimpala Theater with its 2012 Florante at Laura

Published on 2012-07-19 09:59:00

Gantimpala Theater, one of the country's leading dramatic arts companies, opens its 35th season with “Florante at Laura”, the poem of Francisco Balagtas, made into a play by Bonifacio Ilagan, under the direction Roeder Camañag, who promises to highlight the beauty and lyricism of Balagtas’ Tagalog poetry in this production. Giving life to the characters of Balagtas’ literary masterwork are Yutaka Yamakawa and Al Gatmaitan (alternately portraying Florante), Vera Capiral (Laura), Arkin D [..]

The Phantom of the Opera, opening Aug25, extends Manila run with 16 more shows; Filipino tenor to play Piangi

Published on 2012-07-16 10:25:00

“The Phantom of the Opera” will have its season extended until September 30 at the CCP Main Theater, adding 16 more shows, the producers announced recently. The longest-running musical on Broadway, and now on its 26th year in London’s West End, “The Phantom of the Opera” is acclaimed as the world’s most successful musical. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece has been seen by more than 130 million people worldwide. Audiences in The Philippines will be able to experience this legenda [..]

Dulaang UP's rerun of Noli Me Tangere: The Opera opens July 18

Published on 2012-07-16 09:59:00

Dulaang UP is bringing back to the stage last year’s hit musical, National Artist Felipe Padilla de Leon’s "Noli Me Tangere: The Opera," directed by Alexander Cortez, beginning July 18. The show will be at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, Palma Hall, UP-Diliman. Besides opening another exciting season for DUP, the restaging of "Noli Me Tangere: The Opera" is also DUP’s contribution to the celebration of the birth centennial of Padilla de Leon. (The opera's libretto is by another Nation [..]

Student theater organization Dulaang Kalay stages The Woman In Black

Published on 2012-07-16 09:29:00

Dulaang Kalay, the student theater organization of Kalayaan College, brings one of London's longest-running plays to Manila. Stephen Mallatratt's "The Woman In Black", a ghost play based on the novel by Susan Hill (it has also been made into a movie headlined by Daniel Radcliffe), will star stage veterans Jeremy Domingo and Reb Atadero, with direction by William Elvin Manzano. As one of the world's very few horror stories told on stage, "The Woman In Black" tells the tragic story of Arthur Ki [..]

Dolphy, 83--the end of an era

Published on 2012-07-10 12:06:00

When humor can be made to alternate with melancholy, one has a success, but when the same things are funny and melancholic at the same time, it's just wonderful. -- Francois Truffaut [Below, a PDI editorial I had the privilege of writing a few days before Dolphy's passing, celebrating his irreplaceable legacy of laughter, artistry and humanism. Rest in peace, Funny Man.] FOR DECADES NOW, Dolphy’s name has been the most recognizable in the local entertainment scene. There is no other name l [..]

Video: Loi, Liesl, Caisa and OJ--unplugged

Published on 2012-07-09 10:19:00

Did you hear--they'll be back August 24-25 for a rerun of Forbidden Broadway, directed by Joel Trinidad for his Upstart Productions, still at the RCBC Theater. For those who missed the first run, here's something to whet your interest--stars Loi Martinez, Liesl Batucan, Caisa Borromeo and OJ Mariano performing the song that opens this version of Forbidden Broadway, during the presscon held last May. Take note, no microphones! Quite special to hear them this way, right? “A treat for musical [..]

PETA's new season of plays to focus on links between the stage, movies and TV

Published on 2012-07-09 09:43:00

For its 45th Theater Season, PETA attempts to interrogate the role of broadcast media in contemporary Philippine society. PETA dedicates an entire year of examining the historical, cultural, and aesthetic relationship between live performance and the broadcast media and how both have affected and shaped modern-day society and popular culture. Through original plays as well as other related events. PETA invites its audience on a journey that explores the “hybrid” multiplicity of the arts. I [..]

Auditions for kid actors on July 14

Published on 2012-07-09 09:23:00

Kids Acts Philippines is looking for kids ages 7-11 years old and willing to learn acting, singing and dancing for stage performances. Auditions will be held on July 14, 2012, 1-5 p.m., at the Camp Art Studio located at Unit 209, 2F Cityland Pasong Tamo Condo, 6264 Estacion St., Bgy. Pio del Pilar, Makati city (behind Waltermart Makati, front of PNR Station). Audition is free. Please prepare the following: 1. Any English song from Broadway or West End musicals or Disney classics (strictly wit [..]

Opening this Sunday, July 8--The Love Yourself Hub

Published on 2012-07-04 11:16:00

The Love Yourself Project, an advocacy group that aims to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, is set to open ‘The Love Yourself Hub’ on July 8, 2012, at 1850 Leon Guinto St., Malate, Manila (at the back of the Philippine Women's University). The Love Yourself Hub will serve as a resource center for counseling and education, wellness, prevention and treatment programs for the communities the Project serves, especially the youth and LGBT-MSM, in response to sexually transmitted infections and oth [..]

Lea Salonga, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Art Acuña and Adrian Pang in Atlantis Productions' God of Carnage

Published on 2012-07-03 09:54:00

Tony Award winning actress Lea Salonga returns to the Manila and Singapore stage in Yasmina Reza's Tony Award-winning play “God of Carnage”. A joint production of Atlantis Productions and The Singapore Repertory Theatre, “God of Carnage” is a comedy of manners--without the manners. Reza's Tony and Olivier Award-winning play begins as two couples meet to amicably resolve a playground fight between their sons. Lines are drawn, allegiances are made and broken, and the evening quickly turn [..]

Two plays open Ateneo Entablado's 30th season

Published on 2012-07-03 09:20:00

On its 30th season, Ateneo Entablado (Enterteynment Para sa Tao, Bayan, Lansangan at Diyos) presents “Mutya”, a twinbill featuring the plays “Mga Santong Tao” by Tomas Remigio and “Ang Sistema ni Propesor Tuko” by Al Santos, both directed by Richard de Guzman. “Mga Santong Tao” is a play about the couple Titay and Ambrosio and their plan to deceive three powerful men in society--the parish priest, the sakristan mayor and the fiscal--for money. Titay’s plan involves using their [..]

Kapatiran--comradeship--the musical number, and the occasion itself

Published on 2012-07-02 13:30:00

The first major musical highlight of the Gawad Buhay! night last Sunday was the PETA ensemble singing a stirring Kapatiran, a number from the PETA original musical 1896, with music by Lucien Letaba and lyrics by Charley Dela Paz. The late Dela Paz, an actor and playwright, was being honored as one of the night's Natatanging Gawad Buhay! awardees, and the number was in tribute to him. Led by soloists Rody Vera and Bodjie Pascua (whose opening lines I missed in the vid below, mea culpa), the ant [..]

Bed Scenes/Sins--a twinbill of gay-themed plays by Dennis Teodosio--at The Library, July 8-Aug. 12

Published on 2012-07-02 13:06:00

“BedScenes/Sins,” a twinbill of one-act gay-themed plays by award-winning playwright J. Dennis Teodosio, is being mounted by JNP Alternative Theater at The Library bar and restaurant, Orosa St., Malate, Manila. The two plays are “Dapo” and “Carmi Martin,” under the direction of Urian Best Actor nominee Bong Cabrera and Paul Santiago, respectively. “Dapo” was the first play in the trilogy “Tatlong Bulaklak”, a product of the 2007 UP National Writers Workshop, 2007 and presen [..]

The Love Yourself Project's How Do I Love Thee photo exhibit opens July 8

Published on 2012-07-02 12:49:00

The Love Yourself Project, an advocacy group that aims to raise awareness of and education about HIV/AIDS, presents “How Do I Love Thee”--a fund-raising exhibit featuring the works of noted photo-artist Ian Felix Alquiros. The exhibit opens July 8, 2012, 6 p.m., at The Love Yourself Hub, located at 1850 Leon Guinto St., Malate, Manila (at the back of PWU). “How Do I Love Thee” features photographs, mostly in black and white, that focuses on the male torso. Alquiros worked for almost 1 [..]

2011 Philstage Gawad Buhay!--complete list of winners

Published on 2012-07-01 12:23:00

[Winners in boldface. Congratulations to everyone!] OUTSTANDING PLAY • Bombita (TP) • Nobyembre, Noong Akala Ko Mahal Kita (TP) • The Joy Luck Club (REP) • William (PETA) OUTSTANDING MUSICAL PRODUCTION • Care Divas (PETA) • Noli Me Tangere: The Musical (TP) • Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure (REP) OUTSTANDING CLASSICAL DANCE PRODUCTION • Sleeping Beauty (BP) • Swan Lake (BM) OUTSTANDING MODERN DANCE PRODUCTION • Encantada (BP) OUTSTANDING STAG [..]

Lion of stage, movies named Mario O’Hara; 66

Published on 2012-06-30 15:00:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 07.01.2012 CALL HIM A ONE-MAN entertainment conglomerate. When he died at San Juan de Dios Hospital in Pasay City on June 26--a victim of leukemia at 66 (not 68 as earlier reported; he was born on April 20, 1946)--Mario O’Hara had become one of the great, if chronically underappreciated, creative forces in the contemporary Philippine arts and entertainment scene. Not only was he a first-rate writer, director and actor, he also deployed his talents in an unprecede [..]

Tony Espejo, 1948-2012: ‘We are all diamonds in the rough’

Published on 2012-06-24 11:13:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 06.25.2012 WHEN HE INTRODUCED Gantimpala Theater artistic director Tony Espejo at the Philstage Gawad Buhay! awards night last year, which honored Espejo for lifetime achievement in Philippine theater, writer-director Jose Javier Reyes recalled how he first met the honoree: “Kaunti lang ang nakakaalam na mas nauna pa ang impluwensiya sa akin ni Tony Espejo, bago pa ang Bulwagang Gantimpala. He was my second year high school drama guild adviser. Isa siyang bago at [..]

West End-New York smash spoof Potted Potter comes to Manila Aug. 28-Sept. 2

Published on 2012-06-20 10:33:00

The West End and New York smash hit “Potted Potter” opens at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Ayala Ave, Makati City on August 28 and will play only 10 shows, until September 2. Tickets are on sale now. “Potted Potter” (full title: “Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience--A Parody by Dan and Jeff”) takes on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a real-life game of Quidditch) into 70 hilarious minutes. This 2012 Olivier Award Nom [..]

kaSALAn, a twinbill, from Naty Crame Rogers' Philippine Drama Company Sala Theater

Published on 2012-06-20 09:53:00

The Philippine Drama Company Sala Theater opens its 27th season with "kaSALAn", a production that showcases two one-act plays, "Panhik Ligaw" and "Dahil Sa Anak". "Panhik Ligaw" is D. Habito's adaptation of Anton Chekhov's "The Marriage Proposal". It shows a day in the life of Entang, the maid of the wealthy Don Sebio, whose tough spinster daughter Talia is being wooed by Kadio, a sickly bachelor who has asthma. It is directed by Gaby Castillo, and stars Kenn Cayunda, Jake Alejandrino, Cef Va [..]

PHILSTAGE bares 2011 Gawad Buhay! nominees, honors 4 performing arts icons

Published on 2012-06-18 08:20:00

[Complete list of nominees below] The Philippine Legitimate Stage Artists Group, Inc. (PHILSTAGE), the country’s only alliance of professional performing arts companies, announces the staging of the awarding ceremonies of the 2011 Gawad Buhay!: The PHILSTAGE Awards for the Performing Arts, on July 1, 2011, 7 p.m. at the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Main Theater Lobby. Veteran actor, singer and director Audie Gemora will direct the program scripted by George de Jesus. Now on its [..]

Atlantis Productions' Rock of Ages rocks Manila June 15-July 8

Published on 2012-06-14 11:15:00

Atlantis Productions opens its production of the five-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical, “Rock of Ages,” tomorrow, June 15, at the Carlos P. Romulo Theater at the RCBC Plaza in Makati. “Rock of Ages” is a feel-good love story told through such ‘80s hit anthems as “I Want To Know What Love Is,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “We Built This City,” “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” and “Every Rose Has Its Thorn.” The show is headlined by Nyoy Volante, Vina Morales [..]

The Hip hop Shakespeare Company in Manila

Published on 2012-06-14 10:58:00

The British Council, in partnership with the Philippine Educational Theatre Association, brings “Hip Hop Shakespeare” to Manila for a series of workshops and performances from July 3 to 6. Founded in 2008 by MOBO award-winning hip hop artist Akala, The Hip hop Shakespeare Company (THSC) is a music theater production company that explores the social, cultural and linguistic parallels between the works of William Shakespeare and that of modern-day rappers. Launched in 2009 with the support o [..]

You is my woman for always, Audra.

Published on 2012-06-12 04:04:00

From here: History was made on Sunday night at the 66th Annual Tony Awards when Audra McDonald became the first black actress to ever win five Tony Awards. McDonald tied the overall record held by Angela Lansbury and Julie Harris. McDonald’s incredible performance as Bess in “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess” earned her the Tony for best leading actress in a musical. Her four previous Tony Awards were for the featured role category for “Carousel,” “Master Class,” “Ragtime,” and [..]

Dulaang UP's Noli Me Tangere: The Opera returns, July 18-Aug. 11

Published on 2012-06-12 03:48:00

Dulaang UP opens its 37th season with the restaging of “Noli Me Tangere: The Opera”, the critically-acclaimed operatic retelling by National Artist Felipe Padilla de Leon of Jose Rizal’s masterpiece, with libretto by fellow National Artist Guillermo Tolentino. This restaging is also part of the celebration of the birth centennial of Padilla de Leon. Touted by critics as the musical treat of 2011, the production had a successful, sold-out four-week run last November 2011 at the Wilfrido M [..]

Davao City hosts first Sineng Pambansa National Film Festival, June 29-July 3

Published on 2012-06-12 03:20:00

The Film Development Council of the Philippines will stage the first Sineng Pambansa National Film Festival in Davao City from June 29 to July 3, 2012, featuring the finalists of the FDCP’s first National Film Competition held last year. The festival films will be screened at SM City Davao, Abreeza, G-Mall and NCCC Mall. The film festival is a joint undertaking of the FDCP and the city government of Davao headed by Mayor Sarah Duterte. The formal opening on June 29 will be a red carpet even [..]

An appeal for help.

Published on 2012-06-12 00:43:00

TONY ESPEJO, artistic director of Gantimpala Theater Foundation, suffered a heart attack last Saturday and is now confined at the Manila Doctors Hospital in Manila where he is in critical condition. There is a chance that he may need a triple bypass operation and as such, any help you can give will be much appreciated. You can deposit any contributions to GANTIMPALA THEATER FOUNDATION INC., PNB Malate Branch Savings Account number 106-116800017. Thank you and let's all pray for his speedy reco [..]

Silly People's Improv Theater mounts Manila Improv Fest '12, June 28-July 1

Published on 2012-06-05 07:43:00

The Silly People’s Improv Theater (SPIT), the county’s premiere improvisational theater troupe, will celebrate its 10th anniversary by mounting the MANILA IMPROV FEST 2012: The First Philippine International Improv Festival, from June 28 to July 1 at the College of St. Benilde and at Quantum Cafe. Founded by actor Gabe Mercado in June 2002, SPIT differs from the usual stand-up comedy routines as its performances fully involve the audience. SPIT performs scenes, songs and games completely ba [..]

Ballet Philippines celebrates Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary with award-winning ballet

Published on 2012-06-05 07:29:00

To mark the end of the year-long celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of national hero Jose Rizal, Ballet Philippines will be performing its original award-winning dance production, "Crisostomo Ibarra", on June 16-17 and 23-24, 2012 at the CCP Little Theater. Special Gala shows will be performed with live music, featuring 5 leading classical musicians. "Crisostomo Ibarra" will also be performed at SM Calamba on June 18. Ballet Philippines has performed "Crisostomo Ibarra" in Singapor [..]

Songwriting 101, by Maestro Ryan Cayabyab

Published on 2012-06-03 09:46:00

Paano nga ba gumawa ng kanta? Now that a new songwriting competition is up (the first-ever PhilPOP), hopefully to enrich Original Pilipino Music the way the late Metropop Music Festival did, here's something that should interest songwriters and plain music lovers alike: a lighthearted yet instructive look at how someone like Ryan Cayabyab--a giant in Philippine music and a prime mover of PhilPOP--creates his songs. Janno Gibbs plays the young Cayabyab composing one of his enduring masterpieces, [..]

First-ever Philippine Popular Music Festival announces 14 finalists

Published on 2012-06-03 09:00:00

A record-breaking 3,000 song entries, not just from the Philippines but Filipinos based in other parts of the world including the United Kingdom, France, Canada and neighboring Asian countries such as Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong, beat the deadline to submit their entries for the first ever Philippine Popular Music Festival’s (PhilPOP) search for the next big Filipino songwriter. PhilPOP is composed of respected local artists and prominent personalities from various industries brought t [..]

Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas to hold confab on colonial literature

Published on 2012-06-03 08:41:00

As part of its annual convention, the Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas (Umpil) will hold the Colonial Literature Revaluation Conference for Teachers Aug. 23-25 at Silangan Hall, Cultural Center of the Philippines, Pasay City. Guest of honor is National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario. Fr. José Mario Francisco, SJ (Ateneo de Manila University) tackles the pasyon; Nicanor Tiongson (UP Diliman) the komedya; Dr. Edgar Samar (Ateneo de Manila) the korido “Ibong Adarna”; Louie Jon S [..]

A Luhrmannized The Great Gatsby--let the carping begin

Published on 2012-05-27 10:39:00

From here: Praised as “gonzo,” “dazzling,” and visually “spectacular” by preview reviewers, it’s also set off a swift rebuttal in comments sections and on Twitter... Ahead, the most outraged (or funniest) responses to Luhrmann’s latest spectacle, which stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan, Isla Fisher, and Tobey Maguire. The full-length feature can be seen in all its glory in 3-D when it’s released in theaters on Christmas. • “Gatsby trailer looks more Las Vegas comm [..]

Rep Fringe 2012 presents Malice, June 1 at OnStage, Greenbelt 1

Published on 2012-05-27 10:29:00

“Malice”, an adaptation of Arthur Miller's “The Crucible” and set in present-day Philippines, will be presented by Repertory Philippines' Rep Fringe 2012 class and Friends of Repertory on June 1, 2012, at OnStage, Greenbelt 1. Direction is by Ana Abad Santos, and adaptation by George de Jesus III. Rep Fringe is Repertory Philippines' advanced acting class taught by Ana Abad Santos and Jenny Jamora. The class is for individuals who have chosen acting as a profession. This program offers [..]

Gantimpala Theater holds 35th Season auditions on June 11

Published on 2012-05-27 09:58:00

Gantimpala Theater, one of the country's leading dramatic arts companies, announces one-day-only-auditions on June 11, Monday, 2-6 p.m., at the Rehearsal Hall, Open Air Auditorium Building, located inside Rizal Park. The audition is open to all professional and non-professional actors, ages-18-years old and above. Those who are interested must bring a 2 x 2 photo and resume. The auditions are for Gantimpala's 35th season of plays based on the Philippines’ cultural and literary heritage--the [..]

Virgin Labfest 8--schedule of performances

Published on 2012-05-22 07:45:00

SET A: June 27, 3pm & 8pm / July 7, 3pm / July 8, 8pm • Pagsubli, Aizel Cabilan Direction: Melvin Lee • Symposium, U Eliserio and Maynard Manansala Direction: JK Anicoche • Digital Divide, Ricardo Novenario Direction: Andoy Ranay SET B: June 28, 3pm & 8pm / July 7, 8pm / July 8, 3pm • Hayop, Mar Anthony dela Cruz Direction: Erik Matti • Ang Unang Regla ni John, Em Mendez Direction: George de Jesus • Isa Pang Soap Opera, Reuel Aguila Direction: Dennis Marasig [..]

International ballet superstars in Manila June 8-9

Published on 2012-05-22 07:27:00

Ten acclaimed principal dancers from some of the most respected international dance companies converge for the first time on the Philippine stage in a one-of-a-kind show aptly entitled “World Stars of Ballet”. Presented by Ballet Manila and Manila Broadcasting Company, in cooperation with D & D Art Productions, the show runs June 8-9, 7:30 p.m., at the Aliw Theater, CCP Complex, Pasay City. World Stars of Ballet brings together celebrated dancers such as American Ballet Theatre’s Paloma [..]

Love to have loved you, Donna Summer

Published on 2012-05-17 13:20:00

My goodbye on Twitter: rest in peace, Donna Summer. you worked hard for the money--and much more. i hope your last dance was blissful. what you did was hot stuff. Below, from a late-career concert, an atypical song for the Disco Queen--but one that she does beautifully. Real soul there, baby.

Philippine Opera Company's Ang Bagong Harana returns June 6-10

Published on 2012-05-17 12:55:00

The Philippine Opera Company’s “Ang Bagong Harana” returns on June 6-10 at the RCBC Theater in time for the Philippine Independence Day Celebration. “Ang Bagong Harana” is a revue featuring traditional and contemporary Filipino songs, sung by a troupe of 10 young classically-trained singers. “The show was envisioned as love song to our country,” says Karla Gutierrez, who heads the Philippine Opera Company. “We wanted to show audiences that there is so much wealth that Filipin [..]

Return engagements and new works in Dulaang UP's 37th season

Published on 2012-05-17 12:45:00

For its 37th season, Dulaang UP features return engagements of successful productions from the previous season, a classic play by a master dramatist and an exciting new offering from a highly-esteemed Filipino playwright. The restaging of the musical treat of 2011, "Noli Me Tangere: The Opera" kicks off the new season. The critically-acclaimed operatic retelling of Rizal’s opus by National Artist Felipe Padilla de Leon, with libretto by another National Artist Guillermo Tolentino, had a sold [..]

Virgin Labfest 8--final entries and play directors

Published on 2012-05-15 08:35:00

SET A: • Pagsubli, Aizel Cabilan Direction: Melvin Lee • Symposium, U Eliserio and Maynard Manansala Direction: JK Anicoche • Digital Divide, Ricardo Novenario Direction: Andoy Ranay SET B: • Hayop, Mar Anthony dela Cruz Direction: Erik Matti • Ang Unang Regla ni John, Em Mendez Direction: George de Jesus • Isa Pang Soap Opera, Reuel Aguila Direction: Dennis Marasigan SET C: • Alejandro, Chuckberry Pascual Direction: Roeder Camanag • Kuneho, Guelan [..]

Asian Film Festival at Shangri-La Plaza, May 17-21

Published on 2012-05-15 08:17:00

Shangri-La Plaza, together with Asia Society Philippine Foundation Inc. and Film Development Council of the Philippines, unveils the rich cultures of Asia and the region’s compelling stories as it plays host to the first ever Asian Film Festival, themed “Asia as Our Society,” to be held May 17-21 at Shang Cineplex. Film entries from China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the Philippines will be screened at the festival. The opener is local film “Dinig Sana Kita,� [..]

A sampling of Forbidden Broadway

Published on 2012-05-09 08:36:00

Four quintessential Forbidden Broadway parodies. The Julie Andrews send-up is just priceless. 1. Topol: If I Were a Rich Man, from Fiddler On the Roof (If I Sing It Slower, Gerard Alessandrini) 2. Julie Andrews: I Could Have Danced All Night, from My Fair Lady (I Couldn't Hit the Note, Susanne Blakeskee) 3. Barbra Streisand: Somewhere, from West Side Story (Someday, Barbara Walsh) 4. Jonathan Pryce, Lea Salonga: Tonight I Will Be Miss Saigon/Sun and Moon, from Miss Saigon (Tonight Who Will [..]

The heat is on in Travel Time, The Magazine's latest issue

Published on 2012-05-09 08:29:00

Travel Time producer and host Susan Calo Medina continues to take travelers around the Philippines with the sixth issue of Susan Calo Medina’s Travel Time, The Magazine. The summer issue carries the theme, "The Heat is On!" and is packed with the magazine’s signature stunning visuals of beautiful sights and local people, and well-written articles on ideal summer destinations, exciting activities and useful tips. What’s a summer issue without Boracay? Celina Cruz goes beyond the usual f [..]

Announcement: Virgin Labfest 8 finalists

Published on 2012-05-04 11:21:00

From Virgin Labfest head Tuxqs Rutaquio: One-act category • Isa Pang Soap Opera, REUEL AGUILA • Digital Divide, RICARDO NOVENARIO • High Stakes, MIXCAELA VILLALON • Ang Unang Regla ni John, EM MENDEZ • Hayop, MAR ANTHONY DELA CRUZ • Alejandro, CHUCKBERRY PASCUAL • Pagsubli, AIZEL CABILAN • Symposium, U ELISERIO and MAYNARD MANANSALA • Mga Kuneho, GUELAN LUARCA Full-length category • Totoong Hilot, DENNIS TEODOSIO The Virgin Labfest is an annua [..]

Upstart Productions' Forbidden Broadway opens May 11--schedule of guest stars (including Lea Salonga) here!

Published on 2012-05-04 04:57:00

“The funniest show in New York” (The New Yorker) that has been leaving critics and audiences in stitches since its debut in 1982 is now, on its 30th anniversary, finally coming to Manila. Upstart Productions presents the “gut-bustingly funny” (The New York Post) Off-Broadway smash Forbidden Broadway on May 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27, 2012, at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza (Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m.). The Philippine production [..]

Once Broadway to Hollywood, now Hollywood to Broadway

Published on 2012-05-02 10:57:00

It used to be that the musicals came first before the movie adaptations (South Pacific, The King and I, The Sound of Music, West Side Story, My Fair Lady, Cabaret). Now, as the Washington Post reports: In recent years, hit movies have been fodder for some of Broadway’s biggest successes. This year was a banner year for screen-to-stage adaptations, with “Once” and “Newsies” among the most-nominated shows for this year’s Tony Awards, and “Bonnie & Clyde,” “Ghost,” and the bele [..]

Screenwriting and playwriting workshops at MINT College

Published on 2012-05-02 10:29:00

Meridian International (MINT) College and professional screenwriter/playwright Dang Bagas have teamed up for two exciting summer programs under the Theater Arts department: 'Scriptwriting for Film & TV Workshop' and 'Playwriting Workshop'. Enrolled students will be introduced to the principles of dramatic writing including character, plot, dramatic structure, dialogue, exposition, setting and creating theatrical images, through a series of lectures, discussions, creative exercises, stage readi [..]

Dulaang UP holds May 3-4 auditions for Noli Me Tangere: The Opera restaging

Published on 2012-04-29 11:03:00

Dulaang UP opens its 37th season with the restaging of the critically-acclaimed operatic retelling by Felipe Padilla de Leon of Rizal's "Noli Me Tangere". The production is holding auditions for limited roles on May 3-4, 5 p.m., at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, Palma Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman. Audition requirements for those interested are as follows (character and corresponding song): Maria Clara -- "Kay Tamis ng Buhay" Ibarra (tenor) –- "Ang Aking Isinangguni" Sis [..]

Barbra by way of Beyonce

Published on 2012-04-24 09:20:00

Happy 70th, Barbra! (Yep, today, Tuesday, April 24.) But this post is really for The Hubi, who laughs at my seeming mastery of the Streisand life and songbook and my corresponding ignorance of Beyonce's (eh di ko makanta mga kanta niya e!). I once told him of that moment when these two musical forces from vastly different worlds--the older one, already a legend, a peerless purveyor of the adult contemporary sound for over four decades now; and the younger one a defining presence in modern R&B- [..]

CCP hosts Management Intensives for Arts Managers and Board Members, May 25-26

Published on 2012-04-20 10:05:00

The Cultural Center of the Philippines, in cooperation with the US Embassy of Manila, is organizing the Management Intensives for Arts Managers and Board Members seminar on May 25-26 at the CCP Little Theater. Board members, Executive directors, chief executive officers, artistic directors, and heads of arts and cultural Institutions, as well as arts managers and business sector advocates, are invited to attend this event. Karen Hopkins, President of the Brooklyn Academy of Music from New York [..]

PBB alumnus Ivan Dorschner joins Gantimpala Theater’s summer musical workshop

Published on 2012-04-20 09:38:00

From Nickie Wang: Former Pinoy Big Brother Housemate and Star Magic talent Ivan Dorschner participates in the 35th Gantimpala Theater Summer Workshop--Musical Theater for Teen and Young Adults. Dorschner first set foot on the Gantimpala stage as Prince Oswald, opposite singer and actress Rita Iringan, in last season’s touring production of “Si Snow White at ang Pitong Dwarfs.” “My theater experience with Gantimpala was so enjoyable. All the actors and staff I worked with were very pro [..]

Dulaang UP summer theater workshops April 17-May 17, 2012

Published on 2012-04-18 09:49:00

Learn the basics of acting, directing, stage movement, voice, makeup and more from some of the biggest names in the local theater world by joining Dulaang UP’s annual theater workshops from April 17 to May 17, 2012. Instructors include: Acting: Bryan Viray, Irma Adlawan and JK Anicoche Directing: Alexander Cortez and Katte Sabate Movement: Dexter Santos Set design: Gino Gonzales Costume: Lhenvil Paneda Make-up: Carlo Cannu Lighting design: Meliton Roxas Props making: Paul Gaerlan Fee is P6,5 [..]

The Scream

Published on 2012-04-17 04:46:00

Tarana (R), 12, reacts while surrounded by the bodies of men, women and children who died after a suicide bomber detonated a bomb during a religious ceremony in Kabul in December, 2011. The photographer, Massoud Hossaini, won the prestigious Pulitzer Prize [for breaking news photography] for this image. (Caption: Yahoo News)

Thanks to Aegis--no, really--a ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ that works

Published on 2012-04-15 11:00:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 04.16.2012 Rep’s taut, surprisingly tender production, directed by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, sidesteps camp “IT’S ONLY A PONYTAIL that separates man from beast in ‘Jekyll and Hyde,’” went the opening line of Ben Brantley’s blistering review for the New York Times of the Frank Wildhorn-Leslie Bricusse musical when it opened on Broadway in April 1997. Jeers notwithstanding, that prim tonsorial appendage, along with its unhinged cousin the frizz, made a [..]

The old figure Ate Shawie tweeted about

Published on 2012-04-13 10:36:00

In a series of messages to her fans via Twitter early Tuesday, megastar Sharon Cuneta poured her heart out and admitted that she was “sad” about her current figure and would like to get back in shape... “I'm so tired of just being tired of not finding myself in the mirror because I have an image of myself in my head and I know it's not what I actually look like now,” she said on her Twitter account. -- 'Sad' Sharon tweets about her old figure Awww. She has my sympathies. Despite her [..]

Tanghalang Ateneo holds auditions for Sintang Dalisay rerun

Published on 2012-04-13 09:11:00

Tanghalang Ateneo's season-opener, the rerun of "Sintang Dalisay" by G.D. Roke, will be holding open auditions on April 19 and 20, 2012, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Fine Arts Theater, 3/F Gonzaga Hall, Ateneo de Manila University. Auditionees must bring a 2x2 picture and must be prepared to read an "awit" text and follow an "igal" movement sequence. Also needed are musicians who can play native instruments. Auditionees will play native instruments as shown by auditioner. The play will run July 2012 [..]

Fabcast! Ex-men--all about the exes

Published on 2012-04-10 08:30:00

Or as Corporate Closet explains: Ah... The Ex-Boyfriend. What do we do with them? with their memories? This fabcast started with a simple question posed. Do you still 'love' your ex/exes? That got us navel-gazing again. (Migs supplied the term) Especially me. Thankfully, we had new voices in the gallery who had their own interesting stories to tell. Early reaction on Twitter: @gibbscadiz wow revelation sa kin na ex mo pala si (erm, listen to the Fabcast to find out)! Salamat @mcvie sa mabi [..]

Spell trompe l'oeil

Published on 2012-04-04 06:38:00

Or just say “Amazing!” Because Kurt Wenner's art is exactly that. Though it's no longer plain trompe l'oeil (“a style of painting in which objects are depicted with photographically realistic detail,” according to Merriam-Webster) but Wenner's signature anamorphic sidewalk art--because he paints on street pavements, in a style that's incredibly lifelike, but whose effect is apparent only when viewed from a certain angle. The optical illusion is, to say the least, astonishing. I'll let Gr [..]

Walang Sugat--a refresher

Published on 2012-04-02 16:10:00

Need to brush up on the Severino Reyes-Fulgencio Tolentino sarsuwela Walang Sugat for the audition below? Here are four major musical moments I recorded (with permission) from the 2010 Tanghalang Ateneo production headlined by young actors Arman Ferrer and Janine Santos, and directed by Ricky Abad. [More clips here and here.] But first--Walang Sugat in a nutshell, from an Inquirer piece by historian Ambeth Ocampo: The zarzuela is set in Bulacan during the years of the Philippine Revolution, a [..]

At last--The Phantom of the Opera in Manila, Aug. 25-Oct. 14, at the CCP

Published on 2012-04-02 15:38:00

The world’s most successful musical, and the longest-running show on Broadway, “The Phantom of the Opera,” will be staged in Manila for a strictly limited season from August 25 to October 14, 2012 at the CCP Main Theater. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s critically acclaimed masterpiece celebrated its 25th anniversary on the West End stage last year, and continues to play to full houses nightly in London, New York and around the world. “The Phantom of the Opera” has been seen by over 130 mill [..]

Auditions for four upcoming shows by Tanghalang Pilipino

Published on 2012-04-02 15:19:00

Auditions for Tanghalang Pilipino’s 26th Theater Season productions will be held on two Sundays, April 15 and 22, 2012, 1-8 p.m., at the Bulwagang Amado Hernandez (CCP Conference Room) Upper Basement, CCP Main Building, Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. The productions include: “Walang Sugat”, a sarsuwela by Severino Reyes, to be directed by Carlitos Siguion Reyna, with musical direction by Chino Toledo and choreography by Edna Vida Froilan; it wi [..]

In historic collaboration, PETA and Rep team up for Care Divas rerun

Published on 2012-03-30 09:18:00

Why historic? Because, while Cecile Guidote Alvarez's Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), also founded in 1967, became the foremost exponent of original Filipino and Filipino-language theater, Repertory Philippines covered the other end by becoming the country's leading English-language drama company. Ideological opposites for much of their early lives, the two twains never did meet... until now, with PETA and Rep, both 45 years old this year, collaborating for the first time in [..]

More classes, more teachers and more fun at Trumpets Playshop 2012

Published on 2012-03-30 08:18:00

TRUMPETS Playshop is setting up its tents once again at The Podium, Alabang Town Center, Shangri-La Plaza Mall and Global City, calling on everyone adventurous enough to express themselves. This year's workshop theme, “Playshop Camp: Express Yourself!”, is inspired by the diversity and dynamics of recreational summer camps. It will be all about discovering every Playshopper’s uniqueness and, at the same time, fostering a sense of community with his or her peers. For those who love to dan [..]

There is nothing like the dame that is Baby Barredo

Published on 2012-03-22 13:31:00

Since I was only a happy spectator that night, I'll let two people with more K to talk about this do the honors: ROBBIE GUEVARA: Just after a gala show of Jekyll and Hyde, Rep surprised Tita Baby with Junix, Tita Joy, Audie, Raymond, Miguel, Leo Martinez and Freddie Santos serenading her with the songs they all shared with her on stage. The ensemble of J&H provided the in-between chorus songs and in the end, every Rep actor, crew and designer, past and present, in the audience was asked to join [..]

Art 2 Art radio/TV program honors film pioneer Manuel Conde

Published on 2012-03-22 12:58:00

Director and comic Jun Urbano, also known as the wisecracking pop figure “Mr. Shooli,” is the special guest of “Art 2 Art” when it pays tribute to his father, the late National Artist for Film Manuel Conde. The episode airs on March 25, Sunday, 3:30 to 4 p.m., on DZRH (666 khz on the AM band) and on RHTV (Cablelink Channel 9). It can also be viewed online via DZRH live streaming. Urbano relates to “Art 2 Art” host Lisa Macuja memories of his dad as a father and family man and as a [..]

'I'm totally kilig!'--Lin-Manuel Miranda in Manila

Published on 2012-03-20 10:24:00

From BroadwayWorld.com/Philippines: Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator, original leading man, and Tony and Grammy Award-winning composer of the critically-acclaimed Broadway musical "In the Heights", visited the Philippines for the first time, and led the March 16 (Friday) opening night curtain call for Atlantis Productions' restaging of "In the Heights"--the show's first ever licensed production in Asia, which features an all-Filipino cast--at Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City... [..]

The Vagina Monologues on March 31 at Music Museum, to feature stage, screen and recording stars

Published on 2012-03-20 06:59:00

Now on its 12th year in the Philippines, V-Day Manila 2012--a benefit performance of the award-winning play, “The Vagina Monologues,” by Tony Award-winning playwright Eve Ensler--will go onstage at the Music Museum on March 31. Produced by The New Voice Company, the show is raising funds for Lila Pilipina, ILA the Philippine comfort women organization. The special one-night performance features stage, screen and recording stars--as well as acclaimed journalists and activists--all formidab [..]

Lea, Lisa, Cecile in concert--what to expect

Published on 2012-03-14 12:39:00

Something like these three choice video moments, I suppose--when this triumvirate of peerless Filipino artists join forces for the first time this Saturday and Sunday (March 17-18) for a concert called The Legends and the Classics at the Main Theater of the CCP. (These are individual, stand-alone performances, mind. Imagine them combining their gifts on collaborative numbers.) From my baul to your screens... Cecile Licad playing Francisco Buencamino Sr.'s piano masterpieces Larawan and Mayon F [..]

The 62nd Palanca Awards now accepting entries; deadline April 30

Published on 2012-03-12 13:47:00

From Panitikan.com.ph: Now on its 62nd year of encouraging excellence in literary writing, the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (Palanca Awards) is currently accepting entries for this year’s contest. Deadline for submission is at 12 m.n. of 30 April 2012. The Palanca Awards, the country’s most prestigious and longest-running literary competition, welcomes submissions under the following regular categories: English Division--Short Story, Short Story for Children, Essa [..]

Stage Camp--summer theater workshops by 9 Works Theatrical

Published on 2012-03-12 13:31:00

9 Works Theatrical, one of the Manila’s leading theater companies and the outfit behind hit musicals “Rent”, “Songs For a New World”, “The Wedding Singer”, “Sweet Charity” and the recent “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”, re-launches Stage Camp, its annual summer theater workshops, in cooperation with The Rockwell Club. This year's workshop runs for even weeks at The Loft @ Manansala Tower, Rockwell Center, Makati, from April 16 to June 3, 2012, under the tagline is � [..]

I am happy to say I wrote this.

Published on 2012-03-08 14:16:00

EDITORIAL Philippine Daily Inquirer, Friday, March 9, 2012 EASY, GRACIOUS PRESENCE Many speak of him as witty, cultured and well-read. But those descriptions tend to remain in the abstract until one enters the office of the late Philippine Daily Inquirer publisher Isagani Yambot and sees for him- or herself the breadth of the man’s hunger for learning. On shelves and bookcases lining every wall of the office, surrounding his table that itself is piled high with paperwork and reading f [..]

Lea, Lisa, Cecile--an unprecedented triumvirate in The Legends and the Classics

Published on 2012-03-08 12:24:00

Lea Salonga, Lisa Macuja, Cecile Licad--three Filipinas who have shone brightly on the international stage and brought home countless accolades for their country. Now, they will be together for the first time on one stage, in a once-in-a-lifetime concert called “The Legends and the Classics”, on March 17 (Saturday), 8 p.m., and at March 18 (Sunday), 6 p.m., at the main theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. “The Legends and the Classics” brings together the outstanding tal [..]

Nagbabalik--Rama, Hari!

Published on 2012-03-06 09:18:00

As the announcement below confirms, Ballet Philippines is re-staging the pop-opera ballet Rama, Hari in November-December this year. Why am I all excited about this? Because the last time anyone saw Rama, Hari was 22 years ago, during its original run at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, when Marcos was still president and some of us hadn't even been born yet. (Okay, I was already 10 years old then, drat.) Wait--but wasn't there something like it at the UP Theater in 1999? If you're think [..]

Ballet Philippines holds March 22 auditions for its Nov. 2012 revival of Rama, Hari

Published on 2012-03-06 08:19:00

Ballet Philippines’ legendary pop-opera ballet, "Rama Hari" will be revived on November 30, 2012 at the CCP Main Theater 20 years after its inaugural run in the same venue. "Rama Hari", a dance-musical based on the Indian epic "Ramayana", was created by BP’s founding artistic director Alice Reyes, featuring the music of Ryan Cayabyab with libretto by National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera and costume design by National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal. Premiered in 198 [..]

Summer workshops with Gantimpala, PETA

Published on 2012-03-06 07:35:00

Tony S. Espejo, artistic director of Gantimpala Theater, announces the opening of its 35th Summer Workshop-Musical Theater for Teen and Young Adults, which begins April 9, 2012. Registration/enrollment starts on March 13. Within 22 sessions plus a culminating recital on May 18, 2012, participants will learn acting for musical theater. Actor, singer and director Roeder Camañag will facilitate the workshop. Participants will gain knowledge in creative drama, music, voice and dance exercises, and [..]

The day Isagani Yambot wept

Published on 2012-03-04 03:29:00

I have heard him called one of the last idealists of Philippine journalism. This is the man who was caught weeping while lighting a candle after 57 people were confirmed dead in the slaughter in Maguindanao. Two years after the massacre, there were already journalists beginning to demand a review of the list of the dead. Many were not real journalists, they said. Many were hacks and guns for hire. They do not deserve to be counted in the list of those killed in the line of duty. I remember how [..]

Stark, stylish, daring--an un-tragic Lear

Published on 2012-02-26 10:00:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 02.27.2012 Peta’s production is rendered in brilliant, exceptionally vivid Filipino prose by National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera THE PHILIPPINE EDUCATIONAL Theater Association’s Filipino production of King Lear, directed by Nonon Padilla and running until March 4 at the Peta Theater Center, opens with a familiar scene arrestingly re-imagined. Lear and his court, garbed in all-black Japanese-silhouette costumes, their heads uniformly shorn excep [..]

No more high for Amsterdam's weed-loving tourists

Published on 2012-02-24 09:09:00

Foreigners will be banned from Holland's infamous cannabis-selling coffee shops under new anti-drug laws. Under the new rules only Dutch residents will be allowed to enter the shops, which lawfully sell small amounts of cannabis to customers, the Daily Mail reported. By the end of the year customers will have to sign up for a one-year membership, or "dope pass", to the shops. The legislation, branded "tourism suicide", has been spearheaded by far-right politicians convinced that the move will d [..]

John Sayles' Amigo to be shown at Fully Booked High Street

Published on 2012-02-24 08:50:00

The film on the Philippine-US war "Amigo", by acclaimed American director John Sayles, screens for a special limited engagement this March at Fully Booked High Street. Schedule is on March 2, 16, and 30 (all Fridays) at 8 p.m. Tickets priced at P150 each can be purchased at the Customer Service Desk. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. "Amigo", nominated for nine awards at the 2011 Urian including Best Actor for Joel Torre and Best Director for John Sayles, tells the story of cabe [..]

I've been Tumblr-ized.

Published on 2012-02-22 10:39:00

More social media whoring for me: I've just signed up at Tumblr. My site is here. Many friends have insisted that it's a better, more sophisticated blogging platform social media-wise--that is, in terms of the basics such as liking, sharing, forwarding, retweeting, reblogging and the like, compared to the lumbering capabilities of the now seemingly un-hip Blogger platform I'm in. Truth to tell, I'm only going to use my Tumblr as a back-up site for my blog entries here, the way I've been using my [..]

Carlos Celdran's Livin' La Vida Imelda walking tour now a special theatrical performance

Published on 2012-02-22 09:27:00

Renowned tour guide and heritage maven Carlos Celdran transposes his acclaimed and long-running "Livin' La Vida Imelda" walking tour/performance into a special theatrical performance at the Silverlens Gallery, Makati City, on February 23-24, March 1-3 and March 8-10, 2012, all at 8 p.m. From ClickTheCity.com: Since 2004, performance artist and cultural activist Carlos Celdran has been performing his multimedia 1970's Philippine history and disco themed "Livin' La Vida Imelda" tour/ perform [..]

Kalila Aguilos is Lucy in Rep's new musical production, Jekyll & Hyde

Published on 2012-02-20 06:52:00

And, if her performance of Someone Like You at the press meet-up was any indication, then we can expect a potent, fiery Lucy from this versatile actress-singer of theater, TV and film, who's also sibling to the equally gifted Bituin Escalante, daughter to Pinoy jazz great Gigi Escalante and, not incidentally, founding president of the newly formed Theater Actors Guild. The role of the prostitute Lucy was sung in the original Broadway production by the steel-lunged Linda Eder, wife of the compo [..]

Mapua Tekno Teatro goes to CCP's Pasinaya 2012

Published on 2012-02-20 05:58:00

In line with the National Arts Month festivities, Mapúa Tekno Teatro (MT2), the official theater organization of the Mapúa Institute of Technology, will perform its 11th anniversary production at the PASINAYA 2012 with an excerpt of its very own “P3p3 p@@nhowz k N@h? (Pepe Paano Ka Na?)”. Penned by Mc Tyrone Sapulmo with music and lyrics by Harrold Saliba, “Pepe Paano Ka Na?” is directed by Kiki Baento. The play will be part of PASINAYA 2012 on Sunday, February 26, 10 a.m., at the Tan [..]

The Great OPM Love Hits Medley

Published on 2012-02-14 09:27:00

How's this for starters? [Nagbabalik from my baul--what it's all about here.] Because, really, for sheer ardor, nothing beats Pinoy music.

Virgin Labfest Year 8 now accepting script submissions

Published on 2012-02-14 08:30:00

The Virgin Labfest YEAR 8 is now open for script submissions. One-Act plays and Full-Length play scripts are accepted. The Virgin Labfest is an annual festival of unpublished, unstaged, untried and untested works for the theater held in the middle of the year (June to July) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. This festival is a partnership project of the Writer's Bloc, Inc., Tanghalang Pilipino, Inc. and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. The Virgin Labfest is open to submissions of [..]

Whitney could've been in Dreamgirls

Published on 2012-02-12 11:27:00

The original Broadway production, that is--but for her lack of dancing skills. In a sensational piece of trivia in Broadway Musicals: The 101 Greatest Shows of All Time, authors Ken Bloom and Frank Vlastnik wrote: "During casting of the original production [of 'Dreamgirls'], a young singer auditioned for the ensemble and, though her singing was extraordinary, her inadequate dancing skills caused Michael Bennett to reject her. Her name? Whitney Houston." Set aside the lithe frame and imagine h [..]

Mamma Mia! Dig in this Dancing Queen!

Published on 2012-02-08 10:49:00

It's Lea sampling the classic ABBA song during her The Broadway Concert, by way of segueing into another Benny Andersson-Björn Ulvaeus melody, Someone Else's Story from Chess. The latter song made it to the DVD release, but not the (seemingly impromptu) Dancing Queen bit. Well, here it is--from my digitized VHS copy of the concert's TV broadcast. Consider this Outtake #2 from that show (#1 is here). There's one more, and it's the most special. Wait for it! Speaking of Mamma Mia!--it's been e [..]

Books for sale--update

Published on 2012-02-08 09:31:00

Only three titles left! Any takers? Holler please at gibbs_c@yahoo.com or my FB page if we're friends there. To get the books, you may drop by the Inquirer office on weekdays after 5 p.m., kindly just let me know beforehand via e-mail. P100 each • SHOCKWAVE: COUNTDOWN TO HIROSHIMA, by Stephen Walker • FAST FOOD NATION: THE DARK SIDE OF THE ALL-AMERICAN MEAL, by Eric Schlosser • STOLEN CONTINENTS: THE 'NEW WORLD' THROUGH INDIAN EYES, by Ronald Wright

Sipat Lawin Ensemble's Battalia Royale, opening Feb. 21, fuses theater and live-action game

Published on 2012-02-08 08:42:00

What happens when you gather 40 young high school students to outwit, outplay, and outlast one another in order to survive? Sipat Lawin Ensemble collaborates with Australian playwrights David Finnigan, Jordan Prosser, Sam Burns-Warr, and Georgie McAuley on "Battalia Royale", a live-action game and a loose adaptation of Koushun Takami's 2001 novel, "Battle Royale." The show runs Feb. 21-23, 2012, 7:30 p.m. at the CCP Promenade. All performances are open to the public, with pay-what-you-can rate [..]

UP Los Banos' SamaSining stages Articulo Mortis

Published on 2012-02-08 08:28:00

The University of the Philippines Los Baños' SamaSining--the laboratory arm of the Department of Humanities--and the Theatre Communication Class will stage Eljay Deldoc’s "Articulo Mortis" at the DL Umali Auditorium on February 15, 7 p.m., February 16, 7 p.m., February 17, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., and February 18, 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., as part of Tanghal, the first Southern Tagalog Arts Festival. Directed by Ron Biñas, "Articulo Mortis" is a new play that that attempts to look at the phenomenon of [..]

Books for sale

Published on 2012-02-05 11:26:00

Twenty-five titles, all non-fiction--roughly my reading list for the last year and a half or so. They're effectively at 50-60 percent off their original prices, and in good to very good condition (I'm OC when it comes to my books). Interested? Please holler at gibbs_c@yahoo.com or my FB page if we're friends there (I posted the photo earlier on my wall--the titles in red have been reserved). I'll throw in one free--Robert D. Kaplan's Balkan Ghosts: A Journey Through History--for anyone who buys [..]

PETA's Shakespeare offerings this February

Published on 2012-02-03 07:54:00

William Shakespeare has written a hundred sonnets and plays about the irony, tragedy, and splendor of love. He wrote about love from all angles, encompassing all ages, status and cultures. He has looked at love from a perspective of a desperate lover, an aging father or a loyal servant. This love month of February, Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) has three Shakespeare offerings for all love moods and persuasions. "Thee Na Natuto: A Sonnets Concert for the Lovesick" is a m [..]

Ateneo Blue Repertory brings back Bare: A Pop Opera, opening Feb. 29

Published on 2012-02-03 06:30:00

The Ateneo Blue Repertory of the Loyola Schools Performing Arts Cluster brings back “Bare: A Pop Opera”--the Off-Broadway musical about two boys at a Catholic boarding school who fall in love. First staged in a 2009, the original BlueRep production had a sold-out three-week run at Ateneo's Gonzaga Hall. This year, the musical opens February 29, 2012, 8 p.m., at Teatrino in The Promenade, Greenhills, San Juan. Succeeding play dates are March 1-3 and March 7-10 with gala shows on Wednesdays, [..]

On the apology to the theater community, etc.--last na talaga, pramis, so help me gozh!

Published on 2011-07-04 11:00:00

Rafa Santos' second apology, this time directed at the theater community, is quite a stirring read (here). Independent of his now infamous words on TV, it holds hope that, much as he stumbled terribly on his use of language, he might also find some m

Dexter Santos' Rizal X promises to be not your typical Rizal play

Published on 2011-07-04 09:20:00

It’s not your typical Rizal play. Not “Fili.” Not “Noli.” Not Rizal straight out of a textbook. Dulaang UP’s “Rizal X” is a breed all its own. Conceptualized, choreographed and directed by Dexter Santos, who returns fresh from his h

Kapuso and Kapamilya stars in Gantimpala Theater's Kanser (Noli Me Tangere)

Published on 2011-07-04 09:16:00

“We are one with the nation in the celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, thus, Gantimpala Theater opens its 34th season with 'Kanser,' the longest running dramatic play based on Rizal’s incendiary novel Noli Me Tangere,”

Ateneo BlueRep's Little Shop of Horrors, July 27-August 13

Published on 2011-07-01 11:00:00

“Little Shop of Horrors,” a black comedy musical satirizing old-school sci-fi movies that has become one of the longest-running Off-Broadway shows of all time, is Ateneo Blue Repertory presentation for its 20th season premiere this July-August.

Post-apology takeaways

Published on 2011-06-29 11:01:00

The Spot.ph report here. George De Jesus III: If artists are not responsible for the context and meaning of the things they say, and if we simply ignore or give excuses to comments made "out of context" and deem it innocuous, then what's the poi

An appreciation: Jose Mari Avellana, 70

Published on 2011-06-28 13:08:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 06.29.2011 [Update below] FOR ACTOR-DIRECTOR José Mari Avellana, who died of aneurysm Sunday, it was an all-too-brief Indian summer. But while it lasted, it was a dazzling, sometimes heart-stopping, reminder of all t

He huffed and he puffed...

Published on 2011-06-27 06:27:00

“Ito ay isang malinaw na insulto sa ating Civil Code at sa katuruan ng Simbahang Katolika! Kawawa naman ang mga taong ito! Wala nang kinikilalang Diyos! Wala na rin silang paggalang sa kanilang sarili! Dapat na matigil ang kahibangang ito! Ang mga

'See the Unseen' at the Cinemalaya Film Festival this year--in CCP/Greenbelt 3

Published on 2011-06-24 07:12:00

Thirty one digital films in competition, plus more than a hundred in exhibition, new sections, and a second festival venue, all make Cinemalaya bigger and better this year. With the tagline “See the Unseen,” Cinemalaya films this year tackle such

Antidote to the rainy days

Published on 2011-06-24 04:27:00

Or as Tony put it: Daaaang.

Another show opening this Friday--The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber!

Published on 2011-06-22 10:18:00

No need to introduce the man, of course--those 16 musicals of his, and the cavalcade of irresistible melodies they have spawned through four decades, more than make the case for him. Now, the blockbuster Lloyd Webber songbook is coming to Manila vi

Atlantis Productions' Aida opens this Friday, June 24

Published on 2011-06-21 09:23:00

Ima Castro, last seen onstage by her countrymen 10 years ago as the post-Lea Salonga Kim in Miss Saigon-Manila, is headlining the Elton John-Tim Rice musical Aida, mounted by Atlantis Productions and directed by Chari Arespacochaga, that's opening th

The Q&A Fabcast, parts 1-2

Published on 2011-06-21 08:39:00

We've got call-in questions from readers! A first for our podcasts, and a welcome tweak to our usual pace, routine, even energy (wait till you hear part 4, where the back-and-forth became so heated our friends in the peanut gallery thought it had bec

Rama at Sita on video--the return! (p. 3)

Published on 2011-06-17 11:09:00

Part 1 here, Part 2 here. The last heart-stopping moments of perhaps the most lavish original Filipino musical ever staged. The clips are made available online by special arrangement with Franco Laurel and Ayen Munji-Laurel of ML Entertainment, own

Sex--that private, intimate moment--according to Gregg Araki

Published on 2011-06-15 11:00:00

Every self-respecting gay man should encounter, and grapple with, the cinema of Gregg Araki at least once in his life (good entry point: Mysterious Skin, the most accessible and “conventional” of his movies, with Joseph Gordon Leavitt in a breako

Oscar-winning film Departures to open this year's Japanese filmfest Eiga Sai

Published on 2011-06-14 11:04:00

“Departures,” winner of the 2009 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language film, opens this year's Eiga Sai, the Japanese film festival, on July 1 (Friday) at the Shang Cineplex Cinema 2, Shangri-La Plaza, EDSA, Mandaluyong City. The filmfest is pa

PETA holds auditions for new musical play, graphic design contest for Shakespeare season

Published on 2011-06-14 11:02:00

PETA-Kalinangan Ensemble is holding auditions for “William,” a new musical play written by Ron Capinding, to be directed by Maribel Legarda. Auditions will be held at the PETA Theater Center on June 17, Friday, 3 p.m. (for PETA members only); an

Biñan pays tribute to illustrious son Jose Rizal with musical show Si Rizal At Ako

Published on 2011-06-14 11:01:00

In celebration of Dr. Jose Rizal's birth sesquicentennial (1861-2011), the United Artists for Cultural Conservation and Development City of Biñan Inc. (UACCD), in cooperation with the Philippine College of Surgeons Southern Luzon Chapter and the Off

How to open a show

Published on 2011-06-13 11:40:00

First, write a witty script that sparkles with class while also accommodating words like sodomy (the kudos, in this case, go the composers of the previously Tony-nominated Cry-Baby). Second, get the fabulous Neil Patrick Harris to deliver it. Third,

Virgin Labfest Year 7--main entries, synopses, complete schedules

Published on 2011-06-13 11:01:00

From artistic director Rody Vera: 105 script submissions down to 10 untried, untested, unpublished “virgin” plays, plus three more from VLF6! Here is the lineup for the 7th Virgin Labfest at the CCP Tanghalang Huseng Batute, June 29-July 10, 2011

Sintang Dalisay, a North-South intercultural production, from Tanghalang Ateneo this July

Published on 2011-06-13 09:13:00

Last May, two dancers and two musicians from Tabawan, South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi province visited the Ateneo de Manila University to teach theater students the “igal,” the traditional dance of the Sama, and play native musical instruments. The six-

Facebook Friends reboot

Published on 2011-06-13 09:11:00

Got this from a friend. It worked. Have you noticed that you are only seeing updates and posts in your news feed from the same few people lately? Have you also noticed that when you post things like status messages, photos and links, only the same

Star cameo

Published on 2011-06-10 10:12:00

Andrew Sullivan calls this “Lecture FAIL.” I call it Jessica Zafra bait. Wait for the real star of the vid:

1976 film version of Onofre Pagsanghan's musical Sinta! to be shown at CCP tomorrow

Published on 2011-06-10 09:53:00

The Society of Filipino Archivists for Film (SOFIA), in cooperation with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, proudly presents Dindo Angeles' 1976 movie version of Dr. Onofre Pagsanjan's musical, "Sinta!" tomorrow, Saturday, June 11, 2011, 2 p.m.

In and out of Buckingham Palace

Published on 2011-06-08 11:08:00

I should have blogged this while that damned wedding was top of the news, so some of the online traffic could have detoured here, snicker. But anyway... The “in” part, unfortunately, has no pictures, since a tour of London's Buckingham Palace dis

Direk Joey Reyes: 'Dahil kay Tony Espejo, nagkaroon ako ng career'

Published on 2011-06-06 10:23:00

Jose Javier Reyes, one of the country's most acclaimed and prolific creative forces, levels fulsome praise and words of gratitude at Gantimpala Theater Foundation founder and artistic director Tony Espejo, in his tribute to the recent Natatanging Gaw

Nora and Delia Ephron's Love, Loss, and What I Wore for one weekend only, July14-17

Published on 2011-06-06 10:22:00

The sensational Off-Broadway show “Love, Loss, and What I Wore,” written by sisters Nora Ephron (“When Harry Met Sally,” “Sleepless in Seattle”) and Delia Ephron (“The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” “Hanging Up”), vividly rec

Sam Concepcion set to fly as Peter Pan in Rep-Stages collaboration

Published on 2011-06-06 06:10:00

This September 29-October 30 at the Meralco Theater, teen star Sam Concepcion takes on the title role of Stages and Repertory Philippines' “Peter Pan.” “Peter Pan” marks Concepcion’s theater comeback after starring in highly-successful sho

Pride Month activities--take your pick

Published on 2011-06-03 08:49:00

[Click to enlarge.] PLUS: They're back! Again! See calendar above. PETA's Care Divas showdates this June and July, still at the PETA Theater Center, Quezon City-- June 10, 8pm; June 11, 3/8pm; June 12, 3/8 pm; June 17, 3/8pm; June 18, 3/8pm; Jun

Natatanging Gawad Buhay!--Tony Mabesa

Published on 2011-05-31 10:27:00

Outside of my jury duties, I had nothing to do with the preparation for this year's Gawad Buhay! ceremonies, so it was an honor and a delight to discover that Philstage had quoted something I had once written about lifetime achievement awardee Tony M

How Elaine Bickerstaff became Elaine Paige, 'First Lady of British Musical Theater'

Published on 2011-05-31 10:25:00

In 1964, 16-year-old Elaine Bickerstaff auditioned for her first professional musical straight from drama school, and she didn't get the part. Her teacher was so sure that Elaine was right for the show--“The Roar of the Greasepaint-The Smell of th

Fabcast: Timely, urgent, eye-opening--the story of Jake

Published on 2011-05-30 07:20:00

@mgg @mcvie @gibbscadiz, thank you for that fabcast. powerful story indeed. struck a chord in me. -- from @itsMePeriod on Twitter, just one of many expressions of support and appreciation we got from listeners after the publication of the two-part po

Ang mundo ng entabladong Pilipino

Published on 2011-05-29 10:25:00

Ayon kay Glenn Mas, makata, guro, mandudula at kasamang hurado sa Gawad Buhay!: Naiyak ako nung kinanta ito kanina nina Celeste Legaspi at Pinky Marquez sa awards night ng Philstage sa Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino ng CCP. Naiyak ako dahil may reson

A people in need of food, water--and music

Published on 2011-05-29 10:24:00

Reno Philharmonic Orchestra conductor Laura Jackson in a 2009 interview, recalling her stint with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra: The first job that I did this season was in the Philippines, it was in Manila, the Philippine Philharmonic Orch

The 2010 Gawad Buhay!, the Philstage Awards for the performing arts--complete list of winners

Published on 2011-05-25 10:31:00

The complete list of nominees and winners (in red) at the 2010 Gawad Buhay!, the Philstage Awards for the performing arts, held tonight at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino, Cultural Center of the Philippines. NATATANGING GAWAD BUHAY! (Lifetime Achi

Her persuasion can build a nation, rock CGI and get even Babs to swoon

Published on 2011-05-24 11:50:00

Male misbehavior is still endemic, of course—heartbreakingly so... What's changed is women's reaction. Boys can be boys all they want, but girls have had it with being played for fools. We're not interested in the doormat role anymore. You choose,

Ima Castro in the raw

Published on 2011-05-23 14:44:00

Ima Castro, Kim of the UK national tour of Miss Saigon, and also the succeeding Kim to Lea Salonga in the 2001 Manila production of the mega-musical, is back in town to begin rehearsing for the lead part of the Nubian princess Aida in Atlantis Produc

Gantimpala Theater launches 34th season, announces auditions

Published on 2011-05-23 14:43:00

Gantimpala Theater announces its 34th theatrical season and its forthcoming audition on May 31. Artistic Director Tony S. Espejo says, “This year, the company pays tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal, as we join in the commemoration of his 150th birthday ce

Virgin Labfest 7 schedule of shows

Published on 2011-05-20 05:38:00

Below is the Virgin Labfest 7 schedule of shows, as announced by dramaturg/festival director Rody Vera. Unless otherwise indicated, all will be staged at the CCP's Tanghalang Huseng Batute. June 29, Wednesday, 3 and 8 p.m.: Virgin Labfest 6 Revisite

PETA offers lectures on choreography, songwriting, music appreciation

Published on 2011-05-20 05:37:00

If you are an on-the-go corporate individual or a social butterfly who’s too busy to attend month-long workshops, Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) has the perfect 3-in-1 mix for you. Expand your art horizons with PETA’s Lecture

Rachelle Ann Go, Eric Santos make their musical-theater debut in Atlantis Productions' The Little Mermaid

Published on 2011-05-18 07:53:00

Atlantis Productions, which recently staged the hit musical “Next to Normal” and will soon open the Elton John/Tim Rice pop rock musical “Aida,” has found its mermaid Ariel and Prince Eric for its upcoming staging of the Broadway musical “T

Defending the Caveman on its last weekend, May 20-21

Published on 2011-05-18 05:13:00

Catch the last two performances of “Defending the Caveman,” the “perfect date play” (BusinessWorld) that’s also the longest-running one-man show in Broadway history, on May 20 (Friday) and May 21 (Saturday), 8 p.m., at the Carlos P. Romulo

Return to the sound of 'paraiso'--er, Smokey Mountain

Published on 2011-05-16 11:00:00

First time on YouTube--this video clip (below) of the original Smokey Mountain--Geneva Cruz, Tony Lambino, Jeffrey Hidalgo and James Coronel--in a reunion appearance at ABS-CBN's The Music of Dreams concert in 2001, some 10 years after they had disba

Celebrating its 25th year, Tanghalang Pilipino brings back Noli Me Tangere: The Musical

Published on 2011-05-16 05:38:00

In honor of Jose Rizal’s 150th birthday, "Noli Me Tangere: The Musical" will officially open Tanghalang Pilipino’s 25th theater season. The critically acclaimed musical, adapted by Ryan Cayabyab from Rizal’s most famous work with libretto by N

Another look at Rizal in Dulaang UP's Rizal X, opening July 2011

Published on 2011-05-16 05:37:00

Dulaang UP's "Rizal X" is a new work that aims to re-discover and re-introduce the the National Hero, Jose P. Rizal, to the times we live in. The production will compile different points of view about Rizal, his works and his life, in a collaboration

Miss Marmelstein--or how Arthur Laurents discovered 'the greatest star'

Published on 2011-05-11 11:37:00

I remember Arthur [Laurents] telling me one afternoon while he was casting “I Can Get It for You Wholesale” about having just discovered a remarkable new actress. Her name was Barbra Streisand, he said. He told me how she had awkwardly entered fr

Attention, fellow film nuts!

Published on 2011-05-10 04:00:00

The Moscow film company behind some of the greatest classics of Soviet cinema on Wednesday said it had agreed to make dozens of its best-known movies freely available on YouTube. The agreement between Mosfilm and YouTube means that an initial batch

Rama at Sita on video--the return! (p. 2)

Published on 2011-05-08 11:28:00

Part 1 here. More praise from the archives: Fusing Hindu traditional musical strains with contemporary pop, the musical adaptation [of "Ramayana"] electrifies, [but] the spectacle doesn't bury the epic's heart and soul. The sumptuous production d

Philstage honors four performing arts icons, bares nominees for 2010 Gawad Buhay!

Published on 2011-05-05 11:29:00

[Complete list of nominees below] Performing arts icons Ryan Cayabyab, Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Tony Espejo and Tony Mabesa will be conferred the Philstage Natatanging Gawad Buhay honors in the 2010 Gawad Buhay!: The Philstage Awards for the Performing

Nikki Gil, Kris Lawrence in 9 Works Theatrical's Sweet Charity, opening in August

Published on 2011-05-04 08:20:00

This coming August, 9 Works Theatrical presents the dance comedy musical “Sweet Charity,” with TV star Nikki Gil playing the lead role of kooky dance hall hostess Charity Hope Valentine. Gil was last seen as Elle Woods in the local production of

Paglipas ng Limang Taon, from Sipat Lawin Ensemble

Published on 2011-05-04 08:19:00

The Sipat Lawin Ensemble presents "Paglipas ng Limang Taon," Rody Vera's translation of Federico Garcia Lorca's "When Five Years Pass." The production runs May 12 (Thurs), May 13 (Fri), May 14 (Sat), May 15 (Sun) 7 p.m.; May 14 (Sat) and May 15 (Sun

Auditions for Tanghalang Ateneo's Ang Sintang Dalisay ni Julieta at Romeo

Published on 2011-05-04 07:20:00

Tanghalang Ateneo's season-opening production of "Ang Sintang Dalisay ni Julieta at Romeo," by G.D. Roke, will be holding open auditions on May 11 and 12, 4-6 p.m., at the Fine Arts Theater, 3/F Gonzaga Hall, Ateneo de Manila University. Auditionees

Rama at Sita on video--the return! (p. 1)

Published on 2011-04-29 11:30:00

Yes, the video clips, wiped out by Youtube when my old account was unceremoniously closed, are now back online. I'm reposting them in batches, so do stay tuned for the rest of the excerpts. The clips are made available online by special arrangement

Sam Concepcion is Peter Pan, Michael Williams is Captain Hook in Stages and Rep's Peter Pan

Published on 2011-04-29 11:26:00

Singer-actor-TV host Sam Concepcion is set to star in Stages and Repertory Philippines’ production of “Peter Pan,” which goes onstage September 29-October 30 at the Meralco Theater. Veteran actor-director Michael Williams will play Captain Hook

Official list of Virgin Labfest 7 plays announced

Published on 2011-04-27 11:05:00

Virgin Labfest director Rody Vera has announced the 13 plays chosen for the seventh edition of the Virgin Labfest, which shall run from June 29 to July 10, 2011: One-act plays • Bawal Tumawid, Nakamamatay by Joey Paras • Kafatiran by Ricar

More Care Divas!

Published on 2011-04-27 11:00:00

After a smash 42 shows the Philippine Educational Theater Association’s musical dramedy “Care Divas” is back for more performances at the PETA Theater Center on May 6, June 10 and 17, July 8, 15, 22 (8 p.m.); and May 7-8, June 11-12, 18-19, Ju

Fabcast: And we're complete again!

Published on 2011-04-26 08:11:00

Short and sweet, because it's really just to welcome back one of our dear, dear friends, on a Sunday afternoon filled with, as McVie puts it, “the celebration of life family, friendship, faith and the bucolic beauty of Pililia, Rizal.” Tony add

Susan Calo-Medina's top 10 local destinations, new travel magazine, atbp.

Published on 2011-04-24 12:28:00

Who better to ask for a rundown of the best places to go to in the Philippines than the Travel Time doyenne herself, Susan Calo-Medina? The occasion for the asking was the recent mini-presscon for her new magazine (which I had written about here sinc

Tony Mabesa directs Fake, a new Floy Quintos play

Published on 2011-04-20 09:20:00

Now on its 25th Year, the UP Playwrights' Theater (UPPT) presents a new play, “Fake,” written by award-winning playwright Floy Quintos and directed by UPPT and Dulaang UP founding artistic director Tony Mabesa. The play runs May 4-15 at the Tea

How Stages' The Light in the Piazza would have looked, courtesy of set designer Joey Mendoza

Published on 2011-04-17 11:01:00

Would have--because the word right now is, the production has been scuttled--postponed to a still unannounced later date. There is no official word yet from Stages on the reason behind the show's cancellation, news of which came as quite a surprise c

Rockwell's Urban Bazaar, Power Plant's Disney mall display

Published on 2011-04-17 11:00:00

Rockwell’s annual Urban Bazaar runs this year on April 15-17 and April 29-May 1, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., at the Rockwell Tent. The bazaar offers unique gift items, home décor, trendy dresses and clothes, sweets and food stuff, sports gear and baby thi

Pilar Pilapil, just hours earlier at the presscon for The Vagina Monologues

Published on 2011-04-15 09:14:00

Actress and former beauty queen Pilar Pilapil was allegedly abducted by two armed men and stabbed at least five times before dumping her in a grassy lot in Antipolo City, police said. Senior Superintendent Manuel Prieto, Rizal provincial director, sa

Kooky Korea

Published on 2011-04-13 11:19:00

At the bargain shopping district of Myeongdong, while the hordes swarmed over several blocks' worth of incredibly diverse merchandise--shoes, clothes, cosmetics, bags, watches, street food, gadgets, etc., with many shops even employing megaphone-wiel

One-man show Defending the Caveman, starring Joel Trinidad, returns May 6-21

Published on 2011-04-12 12:47:00

"Defending the Caveman," starring Joel Trinidad, will have a rerun on May 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21, 2011 at 8pm at the Carlos P. Romulo Theater, RCBC Plaza Building, Makati. The longest running solo one-man show in Broadway history, "Defending the C

How F. Sionil Jose changed my life

Published on 2011-04-11 11:51:00

The film director Sidney Lumet, who died this week at the age of eighty-seven, changed my life. At a dinner party, when I was twenty-six and, as a sideline, writing about theatre in an East Side giveaway paper for ten dollars a column, he took me asi

Fabcast! Chona, childhood, chenes...

Published on 2011-04-05 13:00:00

My co-Fabcasters will do the talking this time. CC: This fabcast started out as a podcast about the gay accessory known as “fag hag”. then it evolved to be about one particular fag hag, mgg's fag hag (because she was the only one in attendance)

Auditions for Dulaang UP's Rizal X, to be directed by Dexter Santos

Published on 2011-04-05 11:01:00

Dulaang UP's upcoming musical production of "Rizal X," to be directed by Dexter Santos ("Orosman at Zafira"), is looking for a young male lead and strong ensemble players (16-25 years old) who can sing, move and play a musical instrument. The auditi

Group exhibit by UP College of Fine Arts freshman class

Published on 2011-04-05 11:00:00

A group exhibition entitled "Fresh Meat" opens on April 9, 2011, 6 p.m., at Sining Kamalig Gallery, Level 4 (beside Mandarin Suites) Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City. "Fresh Meat" will feature the works of promising young artists fro

13 shows in five weeks--it’s local theater’s days of plenty

Published on 2011-04-03 13:14:00

Philippine Daily Inquirer, 04.04.2011 Not only was the number remarkable, but the variety, too--from glitzy musicals to intense dramas A FUNNY THING happened on the way to the summer break. Ordinarily a fallow period as the local theater compa

The best Original Pilipino Music--in English

Published on 2011-03-30 12:46:00

Or, some of the best, at least--those that would be top-of-mind for a 10-minute-plus medley. The description is no oxymoron. Jim Paredes himself told me once that OPM was coined by his co-Apo Danny Javier in the '70s to describe not only songs in Fil

India--once more, with Travel Time feeling

Published on 2011-03-28 11:01:00

Did you know that Susan Calo-Medina now has a magazine called--what else--Travel Time? The peripatetic lady, her TV travel show already an institution, has decided to put the stories, pictures and memories of her eternal wanderlust to regular print.

PETA's Care Divas back for encore performances, April 1-3

Published on 2011-03-28 11:00:00

After 36 successful shows, rave reviews from both audiences and critics, numerous sold-out shows and roaring standing ovations, the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA)’s hit musical dramedy “Care Divas” is back for a series of enc

Pinky Amador, Bill Atwood hold Master Class in Acting for professional actors

Published on 2011-03-28 05:55:00

A Master Class in Acting for Professional Actors will be taught by one of the country’s leading stage, film and TV actresses, Pinky Amador. This master class will be under Repertory Philippines and co-taught by Bill Atwood, who has over 30 years' t

Roundup--summer theater workshops

Published on 2011-03-28 05:55:00

Compiled by Walter Ang Here's a round-up of some of the more established theater groups you can contact. Schedules and info are subject to change without prior notice. Contact the groups to ask for their full line-up of different classes. • My

I wish I could have written this editorial.

Published on 2011-03-28 05:55:00

[From today's Inquirer] NO HERO Ferdinand Marcos was a fraud. He ran for every higher office as a democrat, but killed democracy when he imposed martial rule. He promised to make the nation “great again,” but burdened the country with behest lo

How to stage the classics

Published on 2011-03-23 11:02:00

“My wife... will never buy anything without looking at the date on the package, which says ‘to be eaten before this date.’ If a classic is something from the past, to be honored because it’s from the past, it’s like eating a canned fish or

Summer workshop on 'Writing Lifestyle Stories'

Published on 2011-03-23 11:00:00

Respected PR communications and special events consultant Joselito “Toots” Tolentino is holding a unique five-day workshop on “The Art of Writing Lifestyle Stories,” starting April 4, 2011. The workshop is open to all high school and college

Elizabeth Taylor, 'world's most beautiful woman,' RIP

Published on 2011-03-23 08:32:00

Dame Elizabeth Taylor, one of the 20th Century's biggest movie stars, has died in Los Angeles at the age of 79. The double Oscar-winning actress had a long history of ill health and was being treated for symptoms of congestive heart failure. Dame E

Cocoy Laurel, Cris Villonco et al sing songs from Simon's Way, a new original Filipino musical

Published on 2011-03-21 11:02:00

Theater biggie Cocoy Laurel, absent from the local stage for quite some time now, is returning to the boards via a new original Filipino musical called Simon's Way, a “faith-based” production (for lack of a better description) that aims to harnes

9 Works Theatrical holds Stage Camp, its summer theater workshop

Published on 2011-03-21 11:01:00

This coming summer, 9 Works Theatrical, the new theater company behind “Songs For a New World,” “The Wedding Singer” and the Manila revival of “Rent,” is holding Stage Camp, an intensive summer theater workshop where kids, teens and adult

At a coffeeshop, unexpected beauty

Published on 2011-03-20 12:36:00

So we were at Starbucks in The Columns, Makati, decompressing after having virtually gone through the wringer--i.e., a date with Atlantis Productions' heart-wrenching Next to Normal in the afternoon (which is to say you have to see it!), and a hospit

Zaturnnah's last 2 shows tomorrow, March 19--plus, Pinky and the wayward prop

Published on 2011-03-18 06:21:00

Kalila Aguilos plays Queen Femina at 3 p.m., while Pinky Amador steps into the role for the closing 8 p.m. show. Pinky, whose fierce and fab intergalactic queen (those super-crisp, crystal-clear lines in the Queen's English!) has played a large part

Fabcast: Cougar Town!

Published on 2011-03-16 10:40:00

Otherwise known as the episode where we discuss the perils, pleasures and practicalities of two men from different generations dating, and getting serious with, each other. The issue isn't an abstract one. Three of the Fabcasters are currently hitche

Rep's Shakespeare in Hollywood opens April 1

Published on 2011-03-16 08:00:00

For anyone who wants some painless lessons in Shakespeare and some good laughs, catch “Shakespeare in Hollywood,” the latest offering of Repertory Philippines. Winner of the Helen Hayes Award for Best New Play (2004), “Shakespeare in Hollywood

Take it from Next to Normal: 'When our long night is done, there will be light!'

Published on 2011-03-14 11:00:00

A full review is something I owe the Inquirer first, so, in the meantime, I'll let my tweet yesterday speak for itself: rushd out of d theatr after 'next2normal'--wept like crazy, i must've lookd hideous. what a musical. sterling work from menchu, je

Cirque de Soleil comes to Manila June 22-July 8

Published on 2011-03-13 13:14:00

For the first time in its history, Cirque du Soleil will visit Manila with its live touring production “Varekai,” premiering June 22, 2011 for a limited engagement under the blue-and-yellow Grand Chapiteau (Big Top) to be built at the Luneta, acr

Stages to mount The Light in the Piazza this July, starring Karylle and NY actor Stephen Mark Lukas

Published on 2011-03-13 13:14:00

The musical “The Light in the Piazza,” which premiered almost six years ago on Broadway, is one of the most celebrated musicals in recent history, having reaped numerous awards and glowing reviews from critics. This July 2011, Stages is proud

From plain bookshelf to cozy reading room

Published on 2011-03-13 13:14:00

Remember what I said about my “offsite” bookshelf here? At night, lit only with a lamp bought from Regalong Pambahay, the space looks, well, fetching. I've a photo somewhere in my PC of [Allan and Ken's] dog Marsha lounging on one of the chairs,

How the urinal becomes art

Published on 2011-03-08 10:00:00

Art is a part of life, but in order to be art it has to create for itself a separate zone... A urinal is not an art object as long as it is carrying out its essential function. To make it art we detach it from the plumbing, tip it on its end and set

The Stella Adler Studio of Acting partners with Tanghalang Pilipino

Published on 2011-03-08 09:45:00

The prestigious Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York partners with Tanghalang Pilipino, the leading exponent of Philippine theater, in a two-week acting workshop and master classes for professional Filipino actors. The much-anticipated Philippin

Gantimpala Theater holds summer drama workshop

Published on 2011-03-08 09:30:00

Tony S. Espejo, artistic director of Gantimpala Theater, announces the opening of its 34th Summer Drama Workshop, which begins April 25, 2011. Within 20 sessions plus a culminating recital on May 28, 2011, workshoppers will learn basic acting and ac

My bookshelf

Published on 2011-03-06 13:30:00

The inspiration: Jessica Zafra's post on bookshelves here. This is my (expanded) bookshelf--expanded because, when the original ones in our house (say, this one) could no longer hold all my books, I looked for extra space somewhere else. When my frie

Introducing the Opera Belles!

Published on 2011-03-06 11:15:00

Three classically trained young singers have joined forces and voices to form the country’s first young female pop opera group. The Opera Belles, composed of Allison Tanner, Lara Maigue and Jam Valdes, combine contemporary pop with the artistry o

Summer theater workshops in Cebu

Published on 2011-03-06 11:13:00

Now on its sixth consecutive year, Little Boy Productions brings back its popular Summer Theater Workshops, now on its sixth consecutive year, from May 2-20 at 3/F, Manros Plaza Building, across Fooda, on Mango Avenue, Cebu City. There will be thre

Meanwhile, on the home front...

Published on 2011-03-02 10:00:00

• Because somebody asked: I don't earn anything from this blog. There are no ads, no paid PR placements, no Paypal Donate button, nada. I don't charge for the theater releases I post here--they're my form of help in getting the word out about ne

Indaaay...

Published on 2011-03-01 10:03:00

“Silliness is an assertion of youthfulness... the vulgarity, the noise, the glorious gossamer folderol are all a bold and fierce declaration of life.” -- John Lahr Akshuli, no pretentious quotes needed. Just watch the video below--all the way t

Upstart Productions' Breakups & Breakdowns ongoing until March 12 at Teatrino, Greenhills

Published on 2011-03-01 10:01:00

New theater company Upstart Productions presents its first offering, "Breakups & Breakdowns," an original romantic-comedy musical written and directed by Joel Trinidad. The musical, which opened Feb. 18 at Teatrino, Greenhills, runs until March 12 (F

The Rainbow Connection--night bazaar and performances at CCP for LGBT

Published on 2011-03-01 10:00:00

The Cultural Center of the Philippines and Task Force Pride Philippines--a network of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender groups and individuals that seeks to promote positive visibility for the LGBT community--is holding "The Rainbow Connection."

Ermita Quartet--four one-act plays by Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero, March 9 at UP Diliman

Published on 2011-02-28 11:33:00

What do rats, nuns, a convict and a chaperone have in common? All of them belong to a wide array of characters borne out of the literary and theatrical genius of a man hailing from Ermita, Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero, who would’ve been a hundred years o

Once again, Dulaang Sibol's Sa Kaharian ng Araw

Published on 2011-02-28 11:33:00

[Note: This brief write-up first appeared in yesterday's Arts and Books section of the Inquirer. It's written by Onofre Pagsanghan of Ateneo's Dulaang Sibol, a man I look up to with utmost respect and affection and who I feel is overdue for a Nationa

Remember, remember, remember

Published on 2011-02-23 10:00:00

PLUS: ok sige fine, ilibing na si marcos sa libingan ng mga bayani, basta isasama si imelda--ng buhay. sampu ng kanilang mga alagad/alipores. Yes, as my tweets amply prove, I have Marcos Derangement Syndrome. The question is--why don't you? • B

Atlantis Productions' Next to Normal--the presscon

Published on 2011-02-22 10:00:00

No musical numbers, no structured program, no speeches--just informal, round-robin face-to-face chats with cast members over lunch. That's usually how Atlantis Productions conducts presscons for its shows, and the one yesterday for its upcoming run o

Jose Llana--from quivering auditionee to soaring Lun Tha

Published on 2011-02-21 10:00:00

Playbill.com describes it as “a good crash-and-burn story of an audition gone horribly wrong,” but with a happy conclusion. Broadway hopeful Jose Llana, then an 18-year-old Voice student at the Manhattan School of Music, lines up to audition f

Weekend theater roundup

Published on 2011-02-18 10:02:00

Closing tomorrow, Sunday ‘Joy Luck Club’ at Onstage, Greenbelt 1 Repertory Philippines’ “The Joy Luck Club,” directed by Anton Juan based on the Amy Tan novel; closing performance tomorrow, Feb. 20, 3:30 p.m., at Onstage Theater, 2/F, Gree

Nicolas Pichay to conduct 3-N-1/10-10-10 writing workshop for stage, TV, film

Published on 2011-02-18 10:01:00

NICOLAS B. PICHAY, writer, lawyer, recipient of the Palanca Hall of Fame for having won at least five First Prizes in the yearly literary contest, and newly-arrived from New York where he spent six months on a Theater Grant provided by the Asian Cult

The 39 Steps, stage adaptation of a Hitchcock classic, next up from Rep

Published on 2011-02-18 10:00:00

“The 39 Steps,” a comic theatrical adaptation by Patrick Barlow of the 1915 World War I espionage novel by Scottish author John Buchan and the 1935 film by Alfred Hitchcock, is the second offering of Repertory Philippines for its 2011 season. Th

Mi Ultimo Adios, now and then

Published on 2011-02-15 14:20:00

Now: The recent CCP Pasinaya 2011 promised that, for its finale, a “1,000-voice choir that includes the Madrigal Singeres will be accompanied by the UST Symphony Orchestra and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra in a performance of Rizal’s poem

3rd International Rondalla Festival this February, in Tagum, Davao del Norte

Published on 2011-02-15 14:18:00

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts, through the Musicological Society of the Philippines and the City of Tagum Tourism Council, in cooperation with the City government of Tagum and the UP College of Music, stages the Third International

Give us a frackin' break, Father

Published on 2011-02-13 10:03:00

“I mourn his passing because he was a bright man, a true soldier and a faithful public servant... As for the ersatz whistle-blower who was budget officer or something in the Armed Forces and made the pabaon claims, he can sniffle and sound sorry al

Azkals in da house!

Published on 2011-02-09 10:00:00

What an outrage. I wasn't around when they dropped by the office a few days ago! Whywhywhy wasn't I informed they were coming? This was late afternoon, I'd have abandoned the pretense at the gym and gone to meet real jocks. Explain, underlings, in es

Invitation to a different Valentine

Published on 2011-02-07 10:01:00

From Migs: Couples or friendly friends who want to have “A Different Valentine” now have an intimate and safe place to celebrate V-Day away from the prying eyes of the straight world. Do you want to have a date away from the center of metro’s t

Anton Juan's Screen: Macbeth for UP School of Drama to merge live performance and film

Published on 2011-02-07 10:00:00

The UP School of Drama and Comparative Literature, in celebration of its centennial year, collaborate with Dr. Anton Juan's World Theater Project to stage Dr. Judy Celine Ick's dramaturgy of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” on Feb. 28-March 6 a

Podcast: The Fabcasters’ Favorite Fab Blogs of 2010

Published on 2011-02-06 11:46:00

My own choices included Jessica Zafra, Cecile Zamora aka Chuvaness, The Professional Heckler and Misterhubs (though he doesn't blog anymore, not at his old URL, anyway--so consider this a shoutout that we miss your writing, Misterhubs!). But while th

'Pay what you can, see all you can' at CCP Pasinaya 2011 tomorrow, Feb. 6

Published on 2011-02-04 10:01:00

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is once again opening its doors this Sunday for Pasinaya 2011, the institution’s Open House Festival. More than 120 preview shows in dance, music, theater, visual arts, literature, and cinema will be pr

'When the moon is in the Seventh House...'--Ateneo Blue Repertory presents Hair

Published on 2011-02-04 10:00:00

“I want it long, straight, curly, fuzzy, snaggy, shaggy, ratty, matty, greasy, oily, fleecy, shining and gleaming...” Who knew then that around 50 years ago, people used their hair not to flirt nor to attract, but to protest against vicious war

What to do when approached by a big bad blogger and/or big bad PR firm

Published on 2011-02-02 10:00:00

I'm sure you're up to your gills with the furious back-and-forth over the Big Bad Blogger brouhaha. Let those who feel they've been slimed, slighted and tarred by the ambiguity of the charges continue to squawk for redress over their hurt feelings

From Viva Hot Babe to Mimi--Sheree tries the musical stage in Rent

Published on 2011-01-31 10:26:00

Don't laugh--the former Viva Hot Babe played Mimi in Rent's second run, and was surprisingly more than adequate in it--tender and fragile and authentically sexy. If she goes for it, she can have a future on the musical stage. That's me doing my yea

Anton Juan, on directing Rep's The Joy Luck Club

Published on 2011-01-31 10:00:00

Anton Juan, internationally recognized for theater work that often challenges convention, directs Repertory Philippines’ “The Joy Luck Club,” which runs Feb.4-20, 2011 at Onstage Greenbelt 1, Makati City. Juan was Director-General of Dulaang U

An Asian university older than UST

Published on 2011-01-30 11:03:00

[Relax, USTe friends--the quadricentennial-celebrating school along Espana still has a lock on the title as the oldest extant university in Asia. Congratulations! As a colleague said, “Ikaw lang, UST, ikaw lang ang may 400th year!” Nga naman. But

Furious in pink

Published on 2011-01-30 11:02:00

The protesters who filled the streets of Sana, the Yemeni capital, on Thursday demanding the resignation of the country’s authoritarian leader claimed inspiration from similar large antigovernment protests that have rattled Egypt and toppled the go

Duh, or the art of the ellipsis

Published on 2011-01-26 14:12:00

Masterful use of the dot-dot-dot, agree? The suspense of the pause is unbearable. Meron din kayang “EUROTEL--Check-in to experience... POLYNESIA?”

Call for entries to Virgin Labfest Year 7

Published on 2011-01-26 14:11:00

The Virgin Labfest year 7 is now open for submissions of both one-act and full-length play scripts. The Virgin Labfest is an annual festival of unpublished, unstaged, untried and untested works for the theater held in the middle of the year (June to

ZsaZsa Zaturnnah--the Bed Bar presscon

Published on 2011-01-20 10:02:00

(Seated, from left): Prince Stefan, Red Anderson, Pinky Amador, Rocky Salumbides, Eula Valdes, Tuxqs Rutaquio, Gabe Mercado, Kalila Aguilos, Wilma Doesnt, Nar Cabico, Kakki Teodoro. Holding it at the city's premiere (and newly reopened) gay dance c

9 Works Theatrical's Rent back at RCBC Theater Feb. 12

Published on 2011-01-20 10:00:00

Starting February 12, 2011, 9 Works Theatrical is staging a “newer,” “fresher” and “bolder” “RENT,” at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize, the revolut

Theater 2010: Fresh faces and (re)discoveries

Published on 2011-01-19 10:00:00

I'm not letting go of 2010 without a recap of the new names and fresh faces on the local boards that made theater-going last year such a jaunt of discovery, surprise and revelation. For, while it was largely a year of reruns and musicals, it was also

'A lovely thing, perhaps the loveliest of things'

Published on 2011-01-16 14:02:00

I held my breath unable to speak in the face of so much beauty... this is a beauty that enters the soul. -- Eleanor Roosevelt The building itself left my scepticism in shreds... insisting with absolute force on its sovereign authorit

New faces in new Zaturnnah run, part 2--plus new showdates

Published on 2011-01-13 15:13:00

In part 1 (here), I reported that Gabe Mercado has been signed up for the role of Didi, while Rocky Salumbides will alternate as one of the Dodongs. Ayen Munji-Laurel was slated to play Queen Femina along with Kalila Aguilos, but her TV schedule got

Dulaang UP mounts rerun of Amphitryon

Published on 2011-01-13 15:12:00

Celebrating its 35th Theater Season, Dulaang UP brings back “Amphitryon,” a Roman comedy by Heinrich von Kleist with Filipino tranlation by Jerry Respeto and direction by Jose Estrella, first staged in September 2009 at Guerrero Theater, Palma Ha

Rediscovering Rizal--in Madrid

Published on 2011-01-11 13:47:00

This should have come out last December 30, Rizal Day, but the holiday revelry sidelined my blogging mojo. It's back. Anyway... In Madrid, Spain in 2009, we couldn't pass up the chance to go on a tour of the spots and places frequented by Rizal and h

Myra Beltran's dance version of Itim Asu back for Women's Month in March

Published on 2011-01-11 11:19:00

In celebration of Women’s Month in March 2011, “Itim Asu 1719-2009,” a contemporary dance based on Virginia Moreno’s play "The Onyx Wolf/Itim Asu” and choreographed by Myra Beltran, will be available for showbuyers who wish stage the show i

No joke--a cross-eyed opossum

Published on 2011-01-10 11:56:00

From the annals of the weird and wonderful... She won't be visible to the public until July, but a cross-eyed opossum has turned into Germany's new media darling. Two-and-a-half-year-old Heidi has even inspired a YouTube hit, her own high-end st

Care Divas, PETA's newest musical comedy-drama, opens February 4

Published on 2011-01-10 11:55:00

In the Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) latest musical comedy-drama titled “Care Divas,” five transvestite overseas workers travel to the historic land of Israel in the time of the intifada (the Palestinian uprising against I

New faces in new Zaturnnah run

Published on 2011-01-09 10:47:00

Tuxqs Rutaquio, who'll be back on stage in February as Ada in Tanghalang Pilipino's umpteenth rerun of Carlo Vergara and Vince De Jesus' Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah, Ze Muzikal at the CCP Little Theater, documented the cast's first day of rehearsals with photo

Rep stages The Joy Luck Club, directed by Anton Juan, February 4-20

Published on 2011-01-07 10:00:00

“The Joy Luck Club,” the best-selling novel by Amy Tan, which was also made into a movie directed by Wayne Wang, is now a play. And Repertory Philippines is staging it from Feb. 4 to 20, 2011, at Onstage Greenbelt 1, Makati City. The play is a c

Surely you won't miss it this time?

Published on 2011-01-06 08:09:00

I've loved Dulaang UP's Orosman at Zafira from the git-go. There are more polished, more sophisticated, more agreeably pleasant shows, but from the time I first caught it in 2008 I've always felt it was something unique--an experience unlike any othe

New Fabcast! Show me the meaning of being lonely

Published on 2011-01-04 10:00:00

Ikaw ba ay nalolongkot, lalo na pag Krismas? Pwes, to cut to the chase (and because I feel lazy rehashing something already well-said), I'll let McVie do the intro to our latest podcast: Every year the Christmas season brings with it cold winds and

First qualification: Must write well.

Published on 2011-01-03 10:00:00

Now, maybe more than ever, in a cultural desert characterized by the vast, glimmering territory of the Internet, it is important for the critic to write gracefully. If she is going to separate excellent books from those merely posing as excellent, th