Spoken Word Poet Mark Ghosn performs alongside Aicelle Santos in GMA Election theme

GMA News and Public Affairs has announced that they have chosen Filipino spoken word poet Mark Ghosn as one of the performers of the official theme song of their 2022 Election advocacy.
Mark Ghosn renders the spoken word poetry on the iconic theme song entitled 'Panata sa Bayan' sang by Aicelle Santos.

Last November 2021, GMA proudly unveiled its election advocacy campaign “Dapat Totoo,” which is also the main content of the spoken word piece.

Aside from being a spoken word artist, Mark Ghosn is also known as the creator of the hit show 'Ampalaya Monologues' which was also adapted into a book and a TV series.

Videos of his performances went viral several times including that of a monologue about trolls and fake news entitled 'Trolling in the Deep.'

According to Ghosn, more than endorsing a candidate, he chose to continue fighting for a bigger advocacy, and that is to fight the spread of fake news.

The collaboration of Mark Ghosn and Aicelle Santos is currently playing on the official social media accounts, radio stations and TV channels of the Kapuso Network.

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Why we can't stop watching PETA's Rak of Aegis online

It will be a delight for OPM fans to get back to Villa Venezia and relive the story of Aileen, Ken, Mary Jane, Kiel, Jewel and the rest of their neighbors singing the songs of Aegis in Rak of Aegis, one of my most loved musicals from the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA). Now, everyone will got the chance to see it as it will be streamed online on July 31, August 1, 7 and 8, 2021 via www.ticket2me.net.

This run is a fundraising drive to help PETA's community of dedicated artists survive that has been greatly affected by the pandemic. The lack of shows, events, workshops and the painful layoff of artists, staff, and crew made them decide to do this initiative in this trying times.

Rak of Aegis' story has a similarity in today's pandemic that Aileen (Aicelle Santos), Tolits (Pepe Herrera), Ken (Poppert Bernadas), Mary Jane (Isay Alvarez), Kiel (Robert Sena) and the rest of Villa Venezia who faced a challenge by helping each other during a calamity -- a scenario which is very similar today that needs to be addressed as everybody are struggling their ways to survive in the crisis brought by COVID-19.

Pepe Herrera (Tolits) and Aicelle Santos (Aileen)

Isay Alvarez (Mary Jane) and Robert Sena (Kiel)

Poppert Bernadas as Ken

It is also a celebration of OPM music, with the songs of rockband Aegis that crosses the borders of social class. This online show will feature subtitles, and yes, you can sing-along to the top of your lungs octaves higher than Luha, Halik, Sinta, Basang-basa sa Ulan and more. The drama, humor, music and messages of hope, resiliency, family and community will now be available to everyone who wants to see it around the world! 

Tickets are now ON SALE when you visit www.ticket2me.net and choose the following pay-per-view options:

• Livestream at Php 350 - 8:00 P.M to 11:00 P.M. (Philippine Standard Time)
• Video On Demand at Php 500 - 24-hours streaming from 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. the next day (Philippine Standard Time)
• Video on Demand Premium at Php 1,000 - 24-hours streaming from 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. the next day (Philippine Standard Time) plus exclusive access to the Rak with Aegis LIVE virtual concert on August 8, 8:00 P.M., featuring the Aegis Band and select cast of Rak of Aegis.

Get full Rak of Aegis experience with an Aegis concert! 

You can also help PETA and the artists and keep the arts alive by donating through their bank and Gcash accounts below:

For bulk tickets and partnerships, contact Mitch Go, mitchgo@petatheater.com, 0917-5391112. For more information, follow PETA’s social media pages: Facebook www.facebook.com/petatheater; Instagram @petatheater; Twitter @petatheater; YouTube www.youtube.com/petatheateronline or visit www.petatheater.com/rakofaegis.

*images courtesy of PETA

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PETA's RAK OF AEGIS to stream soon

Gawad Buhay's multi-awarded musical from the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) comes to your home screens soon!

Rak of Aegis will stream for pay-per-view on ticket2me.net on July 31, Aug. 1, 7, and 8.

Written by Liza Magtoto, the musical features songs by the rock band Aegis such as Sinta, Luha, Christmas Bonus, Rockin' in the Cities, Munting Pangarap, Halik, Mary Jane, Basang-basa sa Ulan and more. 

The musical follows Aileen who dreams of becoming famous by posting song covers online. As she pursues her dreams she also helps her perennially flooded urban community. The musical opened on Jan. 31, 2014 and its most recent run closed on Sept. 29, 2019.

Directed by PETA Artistic Director Maribel Legarda, with musical direction, arrangement, and vocal direction by Myke Salomon, principal cast members from the past seven seasons include Aicelle Santos, Jerald Napoles, Pepe Herrera, Isay Alvarez Seña, Robert Seña, Kakai Bautista, Myke Salomon, Poppert Bernadas, and Ron Alfonso.

The online stream is the banner project of PETA’s #TakePETAbeyondCOVID fundraising campaign.

 

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Why watch Himala: Isang Musikal again?

Aside from it's one of the greatest stories ever told in cinema, the iconic "Walang himala!" cry of Nora Aunor on screen, Himala: Isang Musikal is a masterpiece that still very relevant and moving. Combining the great achievement by Ricky Lee and music by Vince De Jesus, seeing it for the second time at Power Mac Center Spotlight, I was still in awe of the spectacular story and performance of this exceptional cast.

The mystical plot while you're immersed in the black box theater where you get to experience how Brgy. Cupang turned from "cursed to blessed" is a one-of-a-kind experience. The cast, led by Aicelle Santos as Elsa, (with Neomi Gonzales as Chayong, Kakki Teodoro as Nimia, Sheila Francisco as Nanay Saling, David Ezra as Orly, Floyd Tena as Pari, Vic Robinson III as Pilo) I was more drawn into the emotions and the story than the first time I saw it. Himala is something that makes you appreciate more and more every time you see it.

Sheila Francisco gives great emotions with just a stare of the eye. The depth of her performance is quite felt. Vic Robinson III is a stronger Pilo than of Sandino Martin and I think they have more chemistry than Neomi Gonzales.

 

Collectively, the whole cast did an amazing job reliving this timeless piece and still worth another award and should not be missed. The story needs to be retold again and again, to wake us from blind beliefs and put faith where it's due. And our Filipino artistry deserves your applause.

The Sandbox Collective's Himala: Isang Musikal is playing (September 20 - October 20, 2019) at the Power Mac Center Spotlight. Tickets are sold at 1000, 1300, 1700 and 2300 via ticketworld.com.ph

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Theater Review: Himala is a blessing

Sandbox Collective's Himala: Isang Musikal is not just a revival of an iconic film but a blessing. I was able to watch on a preview last February 9 and it's like living in a piece of heaven with the talented cast of Himala.

I must say that I am not fully aware of the story of Himala until last night. Power Mac Spotlight Center transformed into Barangay Cupang giving it an immersive theater experience. The wonderful set of dry twigs and the sight of poverty through their barong-barongs reminds us that heaven is not all something comfortable and good. It includes hardships that desperation that the neighborhood in Cupang has experienced.

Getting not too technical with just lighting and accompanied by a piano on the side, the cast and ensembles showed power that left me speechless on my seat and attentively listening on every song and script delivered. Aicelle Santos leading the cast as Elsa has proved more of herself as a sensational siren. From Katy, to Ang Larawan, she has has acting on the right track and owned the Elsa role.

Elsa's neighbors and so-called "believers" earned my cringe for their hypocrisy and exploits to their blessings. Congrats neighbors for being so effective. Alongside with her co-cast members, Bituin Escalante (Nanay Saling), Kakki Teodoro (Nimia), David Ezra (Orly), Neomi Gonzales (Chayong), Sandino Martin (Pilo) and all of the members of the ensembles is a powerful acting and singing collection of great talent. No lapels, no mics, just their amazing vocals could be heard by the angels.

Final Scene - Himala Isang Musikal

The final scene was unforgettable. Even though it may leave a messy stage after every show, I was also in delight to see a real shower that will give Cupang hope.

And seeing it is as special as seeing the Superstar Nora Aunor in the flesh.

Cast of Himala Isang Musikal with Nora Aunor and Ricky Lee

Himala Isang Musikal is a story by Ricky Lee with songs and lyrics by Vincent De Jesus, directed by Ed Lacson Jr. It runs from February 10-March 4, 2018. For inquiries and tickets, contact 0917.5545560, 586.7105, sab@thesandboxcollective.com, or Ticketworld at 891.9999.

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RAK: 4th run and it's still fresh

Rak of Aegis makes its fourth run starting tomorrow, June 17 at the PETA Theater Center and it gives new additions to the 11-time awardee at the recently concluded Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards.

Director Maribel Legarda keeps experimenting on the show that really doesn't disappoint viewers show after show. In fact, each show is never the same as the previous one that also keeps the audience coming back and getting surprised with the cast's ad libs. I love how each one of them can inject humor but still catch the essence of the musical.

The family of Rak grows bigger and bigger with new cast. And PETA is proud to announce the inclusion of OPM icon Renz Verano as Kiel in the cast. A newcomer in the theater industry, hope that he'll give you more electrifying rendition of Aegis songs. He replaces Robert Sena and alternates with theater actor Lorenz Martinez and OJ Mariano. Adding more powerhouse cast, The Company's Sweet Plantado makes her role as Mary Jane replacing Isay Alvarez-Sena and alternates with Kalila Aguilos. New Tolits will be played by Benj Manalo, and the ensemble is joined by thespians Teetin Villanueva, Via Antonio, Raflesia Bravo and Roi Calilong.

Renz Verano plays Kiel in Rak of Aegis

They're also featuring Sayang Na Sayang, another high-pitched song from Aegis and I am really curious on how they are going to insert it in the repertoire. I'm guessing that it will be on Kiel and Mary Jane's exchange. If you're not familiar with the song, here it is in videoke version:
Para Kay Aileen is also featured in the musical. Is this intentionally made for the musical? Cool.

Rak of Aegis plays tonight until August 16 from Tuesdays to Fridays (8PM) and Saturdays and Sundays (3PM and 8PM). Totalling 62 shows for this run only, adding to the 100+ shows from the previous run, only at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City.

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Rak is Back and nominated for 17 Gawad Buhay Awards

2014 Aliw Awards Best Musical Rak of Aegis gets another run starting from June 16 - August at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City. The show that gets a standing ovation and sold out runs brings back the story of Aileen who searches for fame online to get to the Ellen show in order to help her family in a community submerged in flood.

The show continues to make more than 130 shows from the previous 3 runs. In this run, new cast were added for a bigger family picture and they will now feature Sayang na Sayang as an additional song. Shows are scheduled at Tues - Thursday (3PM) and Fri - Sun (3PM and 8PM)

As we enjoy the repeat of Rak, the company is also rejoicing in the 17 nominations in the upcoming PhilStages Gawad Buhay Award. 2 of which were automatically won because of being the lone nominee in such category. Congrats guys!

Outstanding Original Libretto - automatically won
Liza Magtoto, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Musical Direction
Myke Salomon, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Choreography for a Play or Musical
Gio Gahol, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Costume Design
Carlo Pagunaling, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Sound Design
Myke Salomon and Happy Constantino, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Set Design
Mio Infante, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Female Lead Performance in a Musical
Aicelle Santos, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)
Joan Bugcat, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)
Kim Molina, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Female Featured Performance in a Musical
Kalila Aguilos, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Male Featured Performance in a Musical
Pepe Herrera, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)
Jerald Napoles, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)
Myke Salomon, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)
Juliene Mendoza, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Stage Direction for a Musical
Maribel Legarda, “Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Musical
“Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

Outstanding Original Musical - automatically won
“Rak of Aegis” (Peta)

See the complete list of nominations here.

For ticket inquiries and show buying, you may contact the PETA Theater at 725-6244 / 410-0821 / 0917-5765400. You may also email petatheater@gmail.com or visit www.petatheater.com.

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Aicelle Santos in Class A concert

2014 Aliw Awards Best Actress in a Musical Aicelle Santos serenades PETA Theater in a concert entitled Class A which will be held on February 25 2015.

Aicelle is recently seen in PETA's Rak of Aegis which also won Best Musical Production and major acting awards.

Here is a teaser of Aicelle's concert, Class A.

For ticket inquiries, contact 09162239000.

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2 Aileens back in December RAK OF AEGIS!

Aicelle Santos and Kim Molina back-to-back in the December rerun of PETA's blockbuster theater hit, Rak of Aegis. The show begins December 5 until 14 at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City. The two ladies play the roles of Aileen, a young promodizer caught in the knee-deep flooded streets of Villa Venizia, thinking she can make it big by recording herself singing amidst the floods and uploading it on Youtube, hoping that she will be discovered by Ellen Degeneres and making it to stardom.

Kim Molina, known from her win as Senior Grand Champion Vocalist of the World in the 2009 World Championships of the Performing Arts had auditioned too from other productions like Atlantis' Tarzan apart from joining singing contests. She admires the discipline of theater actors. More so, getting the part in Rak made her sing her heart louder with Aegis' birit-songs. Confessed Aegis fan, she had her training when she was little.

"Siyempre nong bata kapag gusto kang bumirit ng tatay mo, kung hindi Regine, edi Aegis!" 

Kim was discovered by Aicelle playing a character in Ghost the Musical and comes back for another rerun of Rak.

"Coming from the first run, sobrang ganda diba? So at least mapantayan, that’s the pressure that I feel ngayon, the pressure na to give whatever I could.”

Much like the character she plays, Kim is a loving daughter and a dreamer; she relates to Aileen’s hopes of making it big and helping her family.

Also coming back in the cast are Abi Sulit, Gab Pangilinan, Gio Gahol as the members of the ensemble, Jimmy Marquez as Jewel, Oj Mariano as Kiel, Arnell Ignacio as Fernan. The cast still includes members from the original run, Kalila Aguilos, Kakai Bautista, Neomi Gonzales, Jerald Napoles, Pepe Herrera, Myke Salomon, Poppert Bernadas, Nor Domingo, Julienne Mendoza, Ron Alfonso, Phillip Palmos, Gold Villar, Gimbey Dela Cruz, Jet Barrun, Paeng Sudayan, Carlon Matobato and John Moran.

Rak of Aegis features the songs of Aegis like Basang Basa sa Ulan, Luha, Halik, Sinta and more. For ticket reservations go to www.ticketworld.com.ph, or call TicketWorld at 891-9999. You may also contact PETA at 725-6244 or 0917-5765400 or email petatheater@gmail.com.

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Saving my Christmas Bonus for RAK OF AEGIS!

I'm just sharing this and to those who have seen and would like to see it again, Rak of Aegis from PETA (Philippine Educational Theater Association) will be back for another run this December! Better be saving a portion of your Christmas Bonus to see this wonderful all-Pinoy original musical featuring the songs of the country's favorite novelty band, Aegis!

Featuring Aicelle Santos, Isay Alvarez-Sena, Robert Sena and the citizens of Barangay Venizia, we will be again be entertained with magical moments of Aileen and the gang. Their life stories and hopes despite the flood that dwell in their town for months.

Celebrities like Ogie Alcasid and Lea Salonga and theater enthusiasts strongly endorse Rak of Aegis with its flawless presentation and fun musicality, thanks to Maribel Legarda (director) and Myke Salomon (musical director).

Here is a video during the press preview of Rak of Aegis.

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RAK OF AEGIS review

A very personal story to all Filipinos is the story of the new musical from PETA. Rak of Aegis featuring the novelty songs of my favorite band, Aegis. A guilty pleasure for many Filipinos singing their songs in the videoke and in the showers.

Set in the soaked Villa Venezia, Aileen (Aicelle Santos) hopes for something that can lift her family from the flood. her dreams include fame and fortune when she gets discovered by international media. she is torn between supporters and non-supporters from Villa Venezia. alongside the struggle with the long term flood in their area, are stories of family, love and governance conflicts which all of our characters experience.

the cast portrayed their roles very well and the songs are appropriate with their storylines. you'll never guess what's coming and that makes it even hilarious. most memorable characters are Jewel and Tolits. Mary Jane and Kel's story affects every person trying to move on from a broken relationship but somehow holding back after opening the doors for another chance. their rendition of "Luha" can carry your emotions with the words of it.

Mary Jane, Sinta and Munting Pangarap I think are the most memorable parts of the musical. you definitely feel the words to it. especially Sinta where you'll feel the love magic emanate from the stage with all the special bubbly effects.

this is a highly recommended theatrical experience. combining the jologs and the pa-elite market with the music of Aegis, it is also a wonderful support to Philippine entertainment. 6 out of 5 stars and i'm definitely watching it again.

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KATY The Musical Mall Shows

catch Isay Alvarez and the rest of the cast of KATY! The Musical on the following dates at SM Malls:

Jan 4/6pm SM City Pampanga
Jan 5/5pm SM Southmall
Jan 6/4pm SM Fairview
Jan 12/5pm SM Megamall

with Isay are the powerhouse cast of Tirso Cruz III, Gian Magdangal, Epy Quizon, Dulce, Aicelle Santos, Lou Veloso, Tricia Jimenez. this is produced by Spotlight Artists Centre.

you may get your tickets at Php 1000 and Php 1500 by calling 899-8089 or 09228986644.

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