RENT returns on 2024, announces casting criteria

After successfully closing tick... tick... BOOM! last Sunday, 9 Works Theatrical announced the return of their multi-awarded musical R.E.N.T., another masterpiece by Jonathan Larson.

R.E.N.T., with the iconic song Seasons Of Love had its 9 Works debut in 2010 and has numerous sold-out reruns. First led by Gian Magdangal as Roger, Carla Laforteza as Maureen, Sheree Bautista as Mimi and the rest of the ensemble to bring the message of hope and advocacy on LGBT, AIDS and more, that makes it a relevant musical of the generation.

Just today, 9WT has announced that they are looking for new faces to immortalize the roles of Roger, Mimi, Maureen, Mark, Benjamin, Angel, Tom, and Joanne on stage. Check out the criteria below.

We look forward to these fresh talents that will sing our favorite Jonathan Larson music and deliver his message to everyone. For more updates, follow 9 Works Theatrical on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

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RAMA, HARI, all set for September 15, 16, 22 and 23

RAMA, HARI, the highly-acclaimed Filipino rock opera ballet, returns to the stage this September. The production holds the prestige of being the only collaboration that features the masterful works of five National Artists, Alice Reyes for Direction and Choreography, Ryan Cayabyab for Music, Salvador Bernal for Production Design, and Bienvenido Lumbera for the lyrics and libretto with English Translations by Rolando Tinio. Presented by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Metropolitan Theater, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and with the generous support of Birch Tree Adult Boost, the production features artists from CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines with performances running at the Metropolitan Theater on September 15-16, and at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, September 22-23, 2023.

Inspired by the ancient Sanskrit epic, Ramayana, the ballet tells of the adventures of Rama, prince and incarnation of the god Vishnu, who comes down to earth to save the world from Ravana, the most powerful of demons and in time falls in love with Sita, daughter of the king of Mithila, Janaka, and eventually marries her. The evil Ravana attempts to tear the two apart only to find himself defeated and his demonic plans thwarted.

Quite coincidentally, in the late 70s and early 80s a new musical genre was born, referred to as OPM, or Original Pilipino Music; and herein lies the uniqueness in the adaptation of the legend having the distinction of being the first OPM music and dance theater masterpiece.

Alice Reyes took the challenge of weaving the dancers and singers within the music score, instead of separating them, creating a wholistic staging. Reyes uses diverse elements derived from Asian theater such as the shadow play, various hand props, and Indian movements transposed to choreography in the modern dance genre.

The music of Ryan Cayabyab is an intermingling of various Southeast Asian musical influences rather than South Asian (Indian) with a dash of Western influence as heard in the monkey chant. The mixed influences of his music altogether “ Filipinized the score,” as he refers to his work as an “ eclectic piece,” a style that has eventually become his musical signature.

National Artists - Alice Reyes and Ryan Cayabyab

Complementing the music is the libretto of Bienvenido Lumbera, whose script has varying levels: an elevated diction for the protagonist and Filipino slang for the demons. The theatrical reason being that “the intrusion of a very contemporary diction could jar the audience into perceiving that the ancient epic of India is also “now” and “Filipino.”’ An English translation projected during the performance is the work of Rolando Tinio.

Salvador Bernal’s set designs further outline his stylized ornamented Oriental costumes.

RAMA, HARI was last re-staged in 2012 and won 14 Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards. It was intended to be re-staged once more in 2020 but was canceled due to the pandemic lockdown. This year, the long-awaited re-staging of RAMA, HARI will open in September with excited expectations.

This year, the creative team searched for new talents to join the cast and take on some of the production’s iconic singing roles.

The cast includes musical theater star, Arman Ferrer in the lead role of Rama with Vien King alternating. They will perform alongside dancers Ronelson Yadao and Ejay Arisola.

Arman Ferrer and Vien King as Rama

Karylle Tatlonghari, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, and fresh-face talent Nica Tupas alternate in the role of Rama’s beloved wife, Sita, with dance counterparts, Monica Gana, and Katrene San Miguel.

Karylle, Shiela Valderama-Martinez and Nica Tupas as Sita

Rak of Aegis Star, Poppert Bernadas, takes on the role of the demon King Ravana, alternating with Los Angeles-based musical theater actor Mathew San Jose making his Manila debut, and Jonel Mojica. Dancing the role are Richardson Yadao and Tim Cabrera.

Poppert Bernadas, Mathew San Jose and Jonel Mojica as King Ravana

Theater icon Audie Gemora takes on the role of King Dasaratha. Also joining the cast are Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana in the dual role of King Dasaratha's Third Wife, Kaikeyi, and the Golden Doe, while Miah Canton, and Raflesia Bravo take on the dual role of Kaikeyi's evil adviser, Kooni, and Ravana's demon sister Soorpanakha.

Paw Castillo and Jon Abella do double duty as Monkey Army General, Hanuman, and Rama’s brother Lakshmana.

The showing of this grand epic is a timely presentation for the first show of ARDP after its celebration of its first anniversary last July 23. Starting with a press conference hosted by a heritage restaurant, Milky Way, which opened its doors in 1950 serving memorable dishes that have been relished by at least three generations of Filipinos. Keeping with the theme of RAMA, HARI, an Indian legend, Kashmir Restaurant, established in 1975, will also be coming on as a sponsor. Kashmir is now owned by Leon Araneta, son of Gemma Cruz Araneta, the country’s first Miss International in 1964. Both Ms. Araneta and Ms. Reyes were classmates at Maryknoll College where both are honored as Outstanding Alumnae.

Altogether, RAMA, HARI is indeed a celebration on many levels and truly an extreme reason for not missing the show.

RAMA, HARI is presented by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Metropolitan Theater, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and with the generous support of Birch Tree Adult Boost. It features the artists of Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) and the CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program (PASP), with dance trainees from Guang Ming College, Philippine High School for the Arts, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and other independent performers.

SHOW SCHEDULE:
September 15, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Metropolitan Theater
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*

September 22, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater*
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater**

*With live music performed by The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth
**Evening Performance Sponsored by Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp.

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Director Michael Chaves Invites Fans to "The Nun II"

In a newly released video, “The Nun II” director Michael Chaves shares that this year marks the tenth anniversary of the “The Conjuring” Universe, adding that “The Nun’s” demonic Valak is hands-down his most favorite movie monster of all. He then proceeds to invite all horror fans to watch “The Nun II.”

New Line Cinema brings you the horror thriller “The Nun II,” the next chapter in the story of “The Nun,” the highest grossing entry in the juggernaut $2 billion “The Conjuring” Universe. As a treat to fans of scary movies, “The Nun II” will hold simultaneous midnight screenings in participating cinemas on September 6 (also the film’s opening day). Fans can get their tickets now at https://www.nun2.com.ph/
“I'm really excited for audiences to see this movie, and I think that it is nightmarishly scary,” says Michael Chaves in an interview provided by the studio. “I love the theater-going experience, especially with horror movies. Being in a packed theater with friends and strangers is such an incredible and powerful experience. Along with the scares, it is filled with truly unique set pieces and a compelling story that takes characters whom we love further on their journey and into really hard places while making tough choices. The times that I've seen it with an audience have been really special and exciting, and I can't wait for moviegoers to see this film.”

On his fascination with Valak, Chaves shares, “I think that the Demon Nun is one of those iconic movie monsters. I mean, you see it on a poster and it’s like a little bit of a throwback to Dracula. You see a little bit of Pennywise. You see a little Nosferatu. It's so timeless and has such an iconic look. It's one of the ultimate horror movie icons and one of the ultimate movie villains. With this film, I just wanted to take it further. I wanted to explore the manifestations. And I also just wanted to dig more into the story, or at least the myth or the theories, of what its origins could be. I think it's really important to do that, but to never be too specific. I think that part of the mystery and part of not knowing what it is, that’s really powerful. It's what makes it truly scary.”

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Shoelanders Unite: The 1st Shoelanders Grand Alumni Homecoming set on November 18, 2023

The Shoelanders’ Alumni Ad Hoc committee invites all graduates of the Marikina High School (MHS), Leodegario Victorino Memorial High School (LVMHS), Marikina School of Arts and Trade (MSAT), Marikina Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), and Marikina Science High School (MariSci), collectively known as “The Shoelanders” to the first-ever Shoelanders Grand Alumni Homecoming on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the Marikina Sports Center.

Carrying the theme, “Shoelanders Unite: Baliktanaw at Pagpupugay sa Paaralang Mahal,” this homecoming event will bring together more than 70 batch years that includes its first graduates in 1950 up to the present 2023 batch. Considered a historic gathering of topnotch graduates from an illustrious secondary school in Marikina, it is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event one should not miss. This premiere alumni homecoming also sets to give awards and recognition to outstanding achievements of alumni in different categories as one of its highlights.

Reunion For A Common Cause
Through a Ceremonial Signing of “The Shoelanders Alumni Commitment Board”, this homecoming will also seal and make official the solid stand & unwavering support of the entire alumni membership across all batch years to all legislative initiatives and efforts or any activities all in the effort of preserving and restoring the persona and existence of the High School Alma Mater that carries profound history since its founding in 1947.

Mr. Joseph T. Santos, acting OIC of MariSci and from MIST Batch 1992, appeals to all, “We reach out to all alumni to help preserve our beloved school and bring back students to the campus they truly deserve.”

Ms. Fe Oaing-Doromal, Chairman of the Ad Hoc committee and MIST graduate from Batch 1992 is very optimistic about the support of all batches to this event. “It will be a memorable day for everyone and an opportunity to keep our school strong. This is our chance to give back to our alma mater which honed us to be achievers.” She also highlights that proceeds from this event can support in establishing a Shoelanders Foundation and provide for the educational needs of deserving scholars and other beneficial programs.

Marikina City Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro, MIST Batch 1986 alumnus, expressed great support to the event offering the Marikina Sports Center as venue for the event. “It is my great joy to see my former classmates and teachers again. I am truly excited to reminisce about the times we had when I was studying in MIST. I know that the graduates are a great contribution of our school as their talents and knowledge are integral factors in nation-building.”

Countdown to the Big Day
Leading to the big day, the committee has lined-up series of fun and exciting activities to the enjoyment of the alumni. A motorcade kicked off last July that roamed along the streets of Marikina City. There are also mini sports tournaments like bowling, basketball, volleyball, billiards and a Bingo social. Details of events are announced in the official Facebook group The High School SHOELANDERS.

Registration is now ongoing. Early bird is priced at P500 until September 30, and P700 starting from October 1-30, 2023. You may register at https://tinyurl.com/Shoelanders or coordinate with your batch representatives. For volunteers, sponsorships, donations or business opportunities, interested parties may contact Ms. Lourdes Santos at 09566480645.

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Rain or Shine, Get the Cool Comfort You Deserve With LG Air Conditioners

As the rainy season brings in welcome relief to the sweltering heat of summer, the wetter period brings with it a hidden adversary: heightened humidity. This excess moisture in the air isn't just an issue of discomfort; it becomes a nurturing environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Beyond just the threat to aesthetics, these uninvited guests pose significant health risks, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Enter LG Dual Cool Air Conditioners: a modern solution meticulously designed to counteract these moisture challenges, ensuring our homes remain dry, comfortable, and free from these unwanted guests.

A standout feature of LG’s Dual Cool Air Conditioners is the Dry Mode, which combats the often-uncomfortable surge in humidity. This innovative mode doesn’t just cool; it automatically adjusts to the optimal temperature and fan speed, extracting excess moisture from the room's atmosphere. This ensures living spaces are free from the clammy sensations that high humidity can induce.

For added safety and comfort, the Dual Cool Air Conditioners use Plasmaster Ionizer technology, which reduces toxic viruses and bacteria brought by precipitation from the air you breathe. It removes 99.9% of adhering bacteria in a room, ensuring clean, pure air that’s safe to breathe. But the cleanliness doesn’t stop there. For extra protection, LG’s UVnano technology helps prevent bacteria buildup by automatically sterilizing the wind-generating fan and evaporator. A 4-step air purification system is also utilized, trapping big dust particles and reducing allergens.

LG air conditioners, equipped with pioneering technology, stand as a testament to how modern innovation can seamlessly intersect with our daily needs. As the rainy season brings high humidity levels, homeowners can find solace knowing that, indoors, the air remains crisp, clean, and perfectly in balance.

For more information, visit Split Type Dual Inverter Compressor Air Conditioners | LG PH Follow @LGAirSolutionsPH and @LGPhilippines on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube.

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Manila Improv Festival is back this September!

4 days. 14 shows. 70 acts. 12 workshops. Over 15 countries and 300 improvisers.

Asia’s biggest improv festival is back! After 4 years, Manila Improv Festival is now bigger than ever with troupes from Seoul to Slovakia, Australia to Austria, Israel to India, Canada to Chicago, Tokyo to Taipei, and more!

Improvisational theatre, or improv, is a form of theatre where scenes and stories are created spontaneously and on the spot, inspired by audience suggestions. The result? One-of-a-kind shows that are filled with laughter and joy from the magic of spontaneity.

With this year's theme, “Brave the New”, the festival celebrates creative courage and fearless authenticity even in the face of change. So be ready to be treated to a hilarious festival filled with diverse stories, brave comedy, and never-seen-before shows! Here's a glimpse of an improv performance by SPIT and Third World Improv.

Happening on September 7-10, 2023 at the Ayala Malls Circuit Makati, make sure to be part of this vibrant, joyful, and intercultural celebration of spontaneity!

Get your tickets now at bit.ly/mif2023-tickets or via fb.com/manilaimprovfestival. You can also follow on instagram.com/manilaimprovfestival

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FTG’s Depiction of Love

The Far Eastern University Theater Guild, being the oldest theater organization in Manila's University Belt has already established a solid reputation not just in the metropolis but other parts of the Philippines for productions like “Confessions”, “Usapang X”, “Ang Pinakamakisig na Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig”, “Kung Paano Maghiwalay”, “Halu Halo”, and laboratory productions such as Saltik and Tamdula.

Closing the organization’s 89th theater season, the FTG proudly presents Tamdula VI: Love-Oratory, a series of eight monologues on love ranging from the romantic and sexual to the intimate and familial.

Tamdula VI: Love-Oratory is a laboratory production intended to train the FTG members in further enhancing their acting, stage designing, stage management, marketing, and branding. 

The production is directed by the FTG’s Artistic Head, Raffaelle Pascua (BS Psychology, 2024). The FTG’s Company Manager Jonas Cunanan (BA Communication, 2024) is the assistant director. Both directors are student artists who have been members of the FTG and have been gaining artistic experience inside and outside of the organization. They are directly guided by the FTG’s artistic director, Dudz Teraña.

1. The first play, “Against Any-Body" written by Drea Achas (BS Psychology, 2024), delves into the imperfections of womanhood and makes a social statement on how their self-acceptance transcends the opinions of everyone else. Starring Julia Ramas (BS Multimedia Arts, 2026) and Gwen Temprosa (BS Psychology, 2026) as each other’s alternates.

2. “Ang Pinakawalang Kwentang Kwentong Pag-ibig ni Tanga” written by Dudz Teraña, is about the difficulty of moving on from a non-committed relationship. Featuring Adam Labador (BFA Studio Arts, 2026) and Meldy Malig (BS Psychology, 2024) as each other’s alternates. 

3. “It’s Always You”, written by Davewyn Macawile (BA Communication, 2025), is a narrative from the point of view of someone who has been abruptly abandoned by their partner (or what is more popularly called as “ghosting”). Starring Maria Mayano (BA Communication, 2026), Jhoan Gemora (BA International Studies, 2026), and Ryana Azurin (BS Medical Technology, 2025) as each other’s alternates.

4. “Shake, Rattle, and Fall” written by Aaron Bayani (BS Computer Science, 2024), explores the twisted nature of one’s obsession and desperation towards finding love. Starring Drea Achas (BS Psychology, 2024) and Jharelle Villalobos (BS Medical Technology, 2025) as each other’s alternates.

5. “Mama Kong May Tama” written by Brigitta Marilla (BA International Studies, 2025), tells the story behind the unconditional bond a daughter has with her mother. Starring Heleina Li and Bjorn Pestaño both BA Communication students from the Class of 2026 as each other’s alternates.

6. “Dear God” by Dudz Teraña is a comedy that explains the thoughts of an 18-year-old wishing for a boyfriend. Starring Dianne Andallo (BS Tourism Management, 2026) and Renz Dotillos (BA Communication, 2026) as each other’s alternates.

7. “Colorblind” written by Franz Luis (BS Hotel and Restaurant Management, 2026), is about a character being medically --and romantically-- colorblind. Starring the FTG’s surprise guest artist.

8. Lastly, “Paghihintay ng Isang Libong Minuto Para sa Pag-ibig" by Dudz Teraña is a narrative about the definitions of romantic love and what or how much a person can give. Starring Arvin Javier (BA Communication, 2026).

Tickets are priced at 100 pesos for the FEU community including the other branches of FEU, FTG alumni, and FEU alumni (with an alumni ID); and 150 pesos for guests.

The Tamdula VI: Love-Oratory play dates are: August 29, 30, 31, and September 1, 2, 4 to 9, 2023 --- 6:00 PM at the FEU Center for the Arts Studio, Ground Floor, Engineering Building, FEU Manila, Nicanor Reyes Street, Sampaloc, Manila.

For more details, please visit the FTG’s social media pages: Far Eastern University Theater Guild on Facebook, @FTG1934 on Twitter, and FEU Theater Guild Official on Instagram and Tiktok.

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