Sandbox Fest 2023: BACK after a breather with a twin bill performance

Three years after Sandbox Fest 2020—a month-long festival featuring the works of English playwright Duncan Macmillan—came to an abrupt halt in March 2020, The Sandbox Collective returns to breathe new life and begin again with SANDBOX FEST 2023, a twin bill experience featuring Duncan Macmillan plays Every Brilliant Thing and Lungs.

SANDBOX FEST 2023 will be sold exclusively as a twin bill experience: one ticket, two shows, one breathtakingly brilliant experience. Audiences will have the opportunity to purchase a single, same-day ticket good for both shows. The shows will run one after the other, with a 20-minute interval in between. While twin bills are not an entirely new concept in theater, spending three hours at the theater might be unfamiliar to some Manila theatergoers. The Sandbox Collective’s managing artistic director, Toff de Venecia, hopes that SANDBOX FEST 2023 will give audiences a fresh perspective on how one experiences theater: “I’m very excited for the twin-bill experience of Duncan Macmillan’s works, and see how these award-winning one-act plays will resonate with each other, adding to how the world has changed dramatically since we first staged them in 2018 and 2019, thereby impacting the audience’s overall experience and takeaway.”

LUNGS

The last time Lungs was set to be staged In March 2020, the actors and The Sandbox Collective’s creative team sought to answer the questions, "What world are we leaving the future generations?" and "Even if I wanted children, with everything going on around us, what kind of world would I be leaving them?" Already incredibly topical questions in March 2020, they carry even more emotional weight now. Three years down the road, the world has changed in exactly the way the play’s characters feared. On the heels of those questions comes a new one, brought on by the current state of our society: what does it mean to stage a play with characters so fearful of a far-off future in our present time, now that so many of those fears have come true in the real world?

During its original 2018 run, Lungs received seven Gawad Buhay nominations, including Female Lead Performance in a Play for returning cast member Sab Jose. For SANDBOX FEST 2023, Sab will be joined by Gawad Buhay-nominated theater actor Reb Atadero, who was last seen in Breakups & Breakdowns and Ang Huling El Bimbo. The 2023 run will also welcome theater actors Brian Sy & Justine Peña as they step into the shoes of Lung’s anxiety-ridden characters. Justine’s performance in Uncle Jane earlier this year was lauded by critics and theatergoers alike, while Brian’s turn in Coriolano was met with widespread acclaim, garnering him a Gawad Buhay Award for Best Male Featured Performance in 2020. Serving as the show’s assistant director in 2018 and 2020, Gawad Buhay Awardee Caisa Borromeo now takes the reins as the director for Lungs.

EVERY BRILLIANT THING
In 2019, The Sandbox Collective took an enormous leap of faith with the premiere of Every Brilliant Thing, praying that Filipino audiences were ready to hear and see its burgeoning message of hope amidst mental illness. Four years later, as the Philippine theater industry continues to recover and find its footing in a post-pandemic world, Every Brilliant Thing’s message to find joy in the mundane, and to appreciate the everyday is more relevant than ever.

Once again taking on the challenge of this one-woman show is actress, model and TV host Teresa Herrera, who will alternate performances with theater actress, multimedia host, entrepreneur and Gawad Buhay Awardee Kakki Teodoro (Outstanding Female Lead/EBT). Both Herrera and Teodoro picked up Gawad Buhay nominations for Outstanding Female Lead for the 2019 run of Every Brilliant Thing. A new, surprise cast member will also be teased and announced in the coming days. Jenny Jamora will once again be stepping in as director, having directed all its previous runs, and winning Outstanding Stage Direction for a Play at the 12th Gawad Buhay Awards.

Philippine theater, like the rest of the world, has changed immensely since the curtains last rose in 2020. But audiences can find comfort in the fact that the core of both shows remains unchanged: at its heart, SANDBOX FEST 2023 celebrates the innate goodness of people, the human capacity to overcome both internal and external struggles, and the desire to heal both ourselves and the world around us.

Rounding out the artistic team are Arvy Dimaculangan as sound designer, Miggy Panaganiban as lighting designer and Krystal Kane as costume stylist. Heading the production team are The Sandbox Collective’s managing artistic director Toff De Venecia, Anna Santamaria as operations & finance director, Sab Jose as marketing & PR director and Maine Manalansan as design director. Joining the team are Salve Villarosa as marketing and PR manager, Loreta Arroyo as marketing and PR associate, Shai Libunao as promo and creatives associate, Marielle Filoteo as social media associate, Marcel David as production manager (Sandbox Fest 2023) and stage manager (Every Brilliant Thing), and Pachot Festejo as stage manager (Lungs).

SANDBOX FEST 2023 will run at the Zobel de Ayala Recital Hall, 2/F Maybank Performing Arts Theater, 9th Avenue cor. 26th Street, BGC, Taguig City from June 17- July 15, 2023.

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Renaissance XX: Two Decades of Driven Art Direction

Way back in 2003, a new gallery introduced itself to the Philippine art scene. Christened with the engaging and appropriate name Renaissance – the French word meaning rebirth – the gallery was the brainchild of Manuel and Agnes Romero.

Instantly evoking the names of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, Renaissance art was a period in European civilization distinguished by Classical learning and wisdom.

Inspired by the original Renaissance, the Romero couple envisioned the revival of the classical version of Philippine modernism in the visual arts, now to be spearheaded by a young emerging generation of Filipino modernist and contemporary artists.

For the next two decades, this avowed mission has been consistently fulfilled, as testified and exemplified by the young artists nurtured by the Renaissance Art Gallery who have all since made their mark in the Philippine art scene.

In celebration of this exemplary achievement, the Renaissance Art Gallery is launching RENAISSANCE XX, a month-long celebration at the Art Center, SM Megamall 4/L Bldg. A with a collective presentation of the recent works of artists who have previously exhibited in the gallery, either in solo or group shows.

Participating artists are:
Hermes Alegre, Melbourne Aquino, Max Balatbat, Naomi Banal, Bien Benitez, Gil Bien, Benji Bisaya, Remy Boquiren, Arley Carig, Addie Cukingnan, Egai Fernandez, Sonny Fernando, Irish Galon, Richard “Goma” Gomez, Allain Hablo, Helena, Rick Hernandez, Juan Sajid Imao, Malcolm Infante, Josef Laureano, Alice Atienza-Lee, Marlon Magbanua, Sio Montera, Jayson Pettz Muring, Jonathan Olazo, Sam Penaso, Jay Ragma, Cid Reyes, Genesis Rovero, Aner Sebastian, Resty Tica, Jun Tiongco, Valen Valero, Lydia Velasco, Melissa Villaseñor, Meneline Wong, Janice Young, and Orley Ypon.

The working committee behind RENAISSANCE XX is composed of Curator and Founders Manuel and Agnes Romero, Gallery Manager Margaux Oracion, art critic Cid Reyes, publicist Toots Tolentino, and photographer Jojo Colina.

RENAISSANCE XX will be on view until June 28.

For inquiries, pls call: 0917-836-1099 or email: renaissanceartph@gmail.com

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SM pushes for eco-mobility, celebrates World Bike Day nationwide

The Philippines has made greater strides toward eco-mobility in the past two years. The growth of bikeownership allowed more Pinoys to go out and use a bike, which prompted SM Supermalls to build more bike-friendly spaces.

In celebration of World Bike Day, SM Supermalls together with its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, invites cyclists of all ages to join the 2023 Bike Fest from June 3 to 30. 

Celebrating World Bike Day

Calling all cyclists! On June 3, as we celebrate World Bike Day at SM Mall of Asia, SM City Fairview, SM City Marikina, SM City Clark, SM City Sta. Rosa, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM Lanang Premier join us in our community fun bike ride around the mall complex as part of our advocacy of creating bike-friendly communities across the country.

A Kiddie Bike Clinic will also take place at SM Mall of Asia, SM City Fairview, and SM City Marikina. Where kids, aged 8 to 12, can learn and practice bike handling skills in a fun, safe, and encouraging atmosphere. Kids will also learn about the value of bicycle safety during the workshop. 

Drive to the Best Deals and #AweSM Green Finds

From June 20 to 30, bike aficionados are in for a treat as various promos and deals are available online via the SM Deals and SM Malls Online apps, and on-ground in select malls. Tons of cool cycling gear, accessories, and merchandise will be up for grabs so mark your calendars for this 10-day bicycle galore! On June 27, bikers get free weekend treats!

As advocates of a cleaner and sustainable environment, SM has you covered with our Green Finds. Through the Green Finds badge, customers can easily find eco-friendly and sustainable products. Alongside SM retail affiliate brands, SM Green Finds offer products made from natural ingredients that are resourcefully made, promote local artisans, and support community livelihood. Check out our pop-up shops at the SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Makati, SM City Marikina, SM City Bacolod, SM City Legazpi, and SM Lanang. 

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, responsible for initiatives thatpromote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs for Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on the Environment.

To learn more about our initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com and www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or check out @smsupermalls and @officialsmcares on social media.

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SUGA: D-Day Live Streaming at SM Cinema

ARMY bombs ready ‘coz future’s gonna be okay as SUGA a.k.a Agust D invades SM Cinema!

SUGA from BTS, recently released his album entitled “D-Day”, which is the concluding chapter of his trilogy under his alter ego, Agust D.

SUGA embarked on a solo tour that kicked off in the U.S., followed by back-to-back sold-out concert dates in Jakarta, Japan, Bangkok, Singapore, and Korea.

BigHit Music announced on Weverse that a live viewing of SUGA|Agust D’s upcoming concert in Japan will be available in selected theaters worldwide. “This is to ensure that “D-Day” will be enjoyed by as many ARMY as possible.”

Catch A to the G to the USTD at the exclusive SUGA|Agust D D-Day in Japan: Live viewing on June 3, 4:00PM at SM Cinema Bacoor, SM Cinema City Cebu, SM Cinema Clark, SM Cinema Dasmariñas, SM Cinema Davao, SM Cinema Fairview, SM Cinema Megamall, SM Cinema Mall of Asia, SM Cinema North Edsa, and SM Cinema Santa Rosa. Hurry and buy your tickets now at www.smcinema.com or via SM Cinema App.

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"Barbie Girl" played in the latest trailer of Barbie

The newest trailer for Warner Bros. Pictures' Barbie has been dropped and we get to see Barbie (Margot Robbie) and Ken (Ryan Gosling) take on the real world out of curiosity. The exodus from Barbie Land is pure fun with Will Ferrel, America Ferrera and more.

However, the last few seconds of the clip streams a very familiar tune. Check out the trailer below.

 

Many might be well aware of the beef between British pop group Aqua and Mattel because of the former's song "Barbie Girl" which was categorized as obscene by the latter. It has been a long-time issue between the two but the song has earned a lot in the charts and album sales. Even repeatedly recorded and used in many occasions where the party is. Many would have expected it should be used in this movie (even just as a cover) and WB has heard the fans. We would just like that Mattel and Aqua would come into reconciliation and just move on while they both earn from the rights. ;)

Barbie the Movie opens July 21 in theaters, also starring Simu Liu, Emma Mackey, Michael Cera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Dua Lipa, Helen Mirren and more. Directed by Greta Gerwig.

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ZTE Strengthens Commitment to Sustainability; Joins the Science-Based Targets Initiative

• Establishing science-based emission reduction targets in the near and long terms
• Achieved an impressive 7.48% reduction in overall carbon emissions compared to the previous year while maintaining revenue growth
• Committed to addressing climate change challenges and creating a positive impact on both human society and the natural environment

ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, has officially announced its participation in the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and conducted a commitment signing ceremony.

Aligning with the initiative's guidelines, ZTE will establish science-based emission reduction targets in the near term and strive for long-term net-zero emissions. Over the course of 5-10 years, ZTE aims to achieve significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in line with the 1.5°C temperature rise limitation pathway and ultimately reach net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest.

At the commitment signing ceremony, Mr. Wang Xiang, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of ZTE, signed the pledge to the SBTi. Distinguished guests, including Mr. Lin Guoen, Vice Chairman of Deloitte China; Mr. Zhuang Binghan, Vice President of the Marketing Group at Intel; Mr. Hong Xiongbin, Regional General Manager of SGS Limited; and Mr. Ma Qi, Executive Deputy General Manager of Great Wall Power Technology Co., Ltd., representing valued suppliers, were in attendance, bearing witness to this significant milestone.

SBTi is recognized as one of the world's most influential emission reduction mechanisms. Launched in 2015 by the collaboration of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the World Resources Institute (WRI), and the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), this initiative provides businesses with a well-defined and scientifically derived pathway to effectively reduce emissions. By aligning with the goals of the Paris Agreement, the SBTi empowers companies to proactively mitigate climate change's adverse impacts by implementing scientifically grounded emission reduction strategies.

As a leader in the information and communication industry, ZTE has consistently been dedicated to reducing its operational and value chain emissions. Through continuous technological innovation, ZTE strives to enhance the energy efficiency of its products and solutions. Moreover, its Green ICT infrastructure empowers diverse industries to achieve energy savings and carbon reduction.

In 2022, ZTE achieved an impressive 7.48% reduction in overall carbon emissions compared to the previous year while maintaining revenue growth. This accomplishment was made possible through the implementation of comprehensive and multidimensional energy-saving and emission reduction measures.

The announcement of ZTE joining the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) this time marks a significant milestone in the Company's carbon neutrality journey. Following the introduction of its visionary "Digital Economy Green Road" strategy in 2021, ZTE is now committed to working closely with SBTi to develop tailored emission reduction action plans. These plans will cover various domains, including corporate operations, product research and development, manufacturing, and supply chain management.

By aligning with the SBTi guidelines and leveraging its expertise in technological innovation, ZTE aims to make a substantial contribution to driving global economic growth towards a greener and more sustainable future. The Company firmly believes in the power of collaboration and collective action to address climate change challenges and create a positive impact on both human society and the natural environment.

ZTE helps to connect the world with continuous innovation for a better future. The company provides innovative technologies and integrated solutions, its portfolio spans all series of wireless, wireline, devices and professional telecommunications services. Serving over a quarter of the global population, ZTE is dedicated to creating a digital and intelligent ecosystem, and enabling connectivity and trust everywhere. ZTE is listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. www.zte.com.cn/global

For more information on ZTE’s devices in the Philippines. Follow ZTE Devices Philippines (@ztedevicesph) on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. Also visit the ZTE Store in Lazada (https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/zte-store-philippines).

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LG CreateBoard enhances the classroom experience

Designed for Digitalized Educational Environments, LG’s Interactive Display Solutions Offer Customized Features that Make Learning Engaging and Management Simple

LG Electronics (LG) has announced the launch of the LG CreateBoard series of digital whiteboard solutions (models 86TR3DK, 75TR3DK, 65TR3DK and 55TR3DK) for educational environments. Ideal for digital classrooms, LG CreateBoard boasts a 40-point multi-touch screen that provides smooth, interactive writing and drawing experiences. It also offers seamless collaboration with dedicated digital learning applications, and remote management with an easy-to-use cloud-based solution.

Designed to meet the digital learning needs of today’s students and educators, all the latest LG CreateBoard models are equipped with a 3,840 × 2,160 (UHD) resolution display that provides 40-point multi-touch functionality. The versatile, new products facilitate fun, interactive learning experiences and are ideal for learning games, collaborative activities, and much more.

Among the many convenient features for educators offered by LG’s new learning displays are QR access and Smart Viewing. With QR verification, instructors can easily access their own Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive on LG CreateBoard and quickly share teaching materials with students without having to print them out. Meanwhile, the Smart Viewing feature makes it possible to display two or more materials on screen, either in separate windows or overlaid in picture-in-picture mode. This function helps students better understand instructions and learning content by allowing them to view multiple documents, videos, or other materials simultaneously.

Suitable for digitalized learning spaces, LG CreateBoard solutions come with the LG CreateBoard Lab application, which offers a variety of writing tools that can boost student engagement. Available as an application4, LG CreateBoard Share enables the wireless screensharing of up to 9 screens on LG CreateBoard at the same time. This lets students easily share files from their personal devices and view their work together with the teacher, creating the opportunity for constructive feedback and the sharing of ideas.

A cloud-based device management solution designed for schools and other learning environments, LG ConnectedCare DMS (Device Management System) makes it simple to remotely monitor and manage multiple LG CreateBoard displays. LG ConnectedCare DMS has an intuitive-to-use integrated dashboard that gives IT managers the ability to monitor their educational institutions’ LG CreateBoard displays and remotely control simple display functions. They can also send alerts to LG CreateBoard to make students and teachers aware of messages, or push notifications to remind everyone about upcoming school events.

“LG CreateBoard offers educational professionals and students an engaging, interactive experience and is well suited to today’s digital learning environments and methods,” said Paik Ki-mun, senior vice president and head of the Information Display business unit of LG Electronics Business Solutions Company. “Leveraging our exceptional display technologies, we will continue to deliver cutting-edge solutions that cater to the evolving needs of the education sector.”

For more information about LG CreateBoard, visit LG.com. Also follow @LGPhilippines on Facebook and @LGPhilippines on Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube. LG products are available in all authorized dealers nationwide both in-store and online. Visit lg.com/ph for a complete list of our retail partners. You can also visit LG’s Official Flagship Stores in Lazada and Shopee.

The LG Business Solutions Company is a trusted partner offering innovative products and solutions for diverse industries worldwide. With a portfolio of unique offerings ranging from industry-leading Commercial TVs, LED Signage, and IT Monitors, LG is a respected name among customers around the world all designed to maximize work efficiency and return strong value to customers. For more on LG’s Business Solutions, visit www.LG.com/b2b.

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