2018 was a good year for theater. There were so many plays that really showcased raw, Filipino talent. Whether it was a play or musical, Filipino actors have repeatedly shown their capability of transforming themselves and being a completely different person onstage.
The thing with watching plays is that we get lost in the show that we’re watching, but we find ourselves there too. We relate to different characters and empathize with the fictional characters we’re seeing because they are not entirely fictional. We recognize some characteristics in people who know in real life and we associate the scenes to particular events that actually transpired.
Watching theater is an incredible experience, especially with the heartwarming message that each play holds. It’s time to put your planners out and get yourself to save up for the local theater scene. You never know which one will have the most impact on you and might even change your life. This 2019, get entertained by these wonderful shows:
Miong
Recently, you may have witnessed lots of films and plays about Philippine history and heroes, but there hasn’t been one that focused on Emilio Aguinaldo yet. Miong is an all-original musical about his youth and the major role he played in our history. The titular role will be played by Tim Pavino. Like any other Filipino hero story, this will show us that one person can make a big difference.
Repertory Philippines Foundation, Inc.’s 2019 season includes Father’s Day (March 22 – April 14, 2019), The Dresser (May 3 – May 26, 2019), and The Quest for Adarna (September 13, 2019 – January 12, 2020). Make sure to catch these shows as well!
Dates: February 15 to March 10, 2019
Venue: Onstage Theater, Greenbelt 1, Makati
Ang Huling El Bimbo
After their successful run last 2018, Resorts World Manila and Full House Theater Company are restaging “Ang Huling El Bimbo” for 2019! This musical is a story of friendship that features songs from one of the most icon Filipino bands ever—Eraserheads. Enjoy the nostalgia and feels that comes along with the bond formed between Filipinos. If you weren’t able to see it last year, don’t let the opportunity pass again!
Dates: March 1 – April 6, 2019
Venue: Newport Performing Arts Theater
Coriolano
Tanghalang Pilipino (TP) ends their 32nd season with Coriolano, from the Shakespearean tragedy Coriolanus, translated by Guelan Luarca. The play features the TP Actors Company as well as other guest artists, with Marco Viaña tagged to be playing the titular role. Dubbed with “Bayani o berdugo?” the play will tackle military and politics, which that are very relevant in today’s current political climate. Surely this play is worth catching!
Dates: February 22 – March 17, 2019
Venue: CCP Little Theater
Charot
To end this 51st season, Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) is staging “CHAROT,” presenting local events and issues in a comical way, but also totally meaning what they say. Much like the word from where the title of the play was drawn, it is often used to downplay something serious to make it more acceptable. This interactive theatrical comedy will illustrate how ridiculous some of the current events have been. If you want to laugh and relax watching a socially-relevant play, this one will be your best bet!
Dates: February 8 – March 15, 2019
Venue: PETA Theater
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group (ATEG) is set to be staging “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” as their final production of for 2019. They have revealed the “bloodiest” casting announcement ever last December, with Jett Pangan as Sweeney Todd and Lea Salonga as Mrs. Lovett. With 8 Tony awards to back-up its brilliance, this classic Sondheim revenge tale is not to be missed!
ATEG’s 20th anniversary season also includes “Angels in America” (March 22 – April 7, 2019) and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” (June – July 2019). These shows are definitely worth watching too!
Date: October 2019
Venue: Theater at Solaire
