Because the Filipino is Worth Watching

My heart is filled with joy that this year, theaters in the metro are filled with all original filipino productions. More than my personal take on nationalism at cultural patriotism, it is the amount of talent on stage that has me gleefully buzzed with excitement. Here's my top three gloriously pinoy productions you shouldn't miss.

1. Sabel Love and Passion  by Philippine Ballet Theatre
    Directed by Freddie Santos
    Libretto by Freddie Santos 
    Musical Direction by Louie Ocampo 

PHOTO BY TES TIROL 

Sabel had its world premiere last April in Solaire's beautiful theater.  The critics have spoken. If the glorious reviews of who's who in society isn't enough to get you to buy a ticket, then take into consideration my plea . Art collaborations are tricky. Very seldom will theatre collaborations glorify the different art forms in the same level. However, when a team of masters get together and work on something with the humility of an artist, it is bound to succeed. Sabel, Benedicto Cabrera's iconic muse will  finally be  real to us all. After years of seeing her beauty on a canvass, she will now represent the stories that Ben Cab has told through his creations. Sabel I promise you will be visually breathtaking as it showcases the soulful art of  the national artist.  It will be emotionally healing  as Iza Calzado and Philippine Ballet Theatre will tell you the story of a woman who is familiar to us all. Lastly, it will be a memorable musical treat that will stay with you for days. It is a show that will soothe your senses.

https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineBalletTheatre?fref=ts

2. Kung Papaano ako Naging Leading lady by Dalanghita Productions
    Directed by Chris Martinez
    Music by Vincent De Jesus 

PHOTO BY ERICA JACINTO

Following its succesful debut in PETA Theatre, #KPANLL will have a second run in Onstage Theatre, Greenbelt. This show is all about the greatness of humanity. Don't be distracted by its super hero feel because the show is more than just a  hot cast in leather suits. It will make you laugh until you have abs, cry until you have eyebags  and swoon til you get depressed that you aren't Mely. Everyone will just love this non-fairy tale concoction of Dalanghita productions. Fresh. Flavorful.Filipino. 

PHOTO BY ERICA JACINTO 

https://www.facebook.com/LeadingLadyTheMusical?fref=ts

3. Bituin Walang Ningning
    Resorts World Manila    
    Directed by Freddie Santos 

PHOTO FROM RESORTS WORLD MANILA WEBSITE 

Bituin Walang Ningning opens June 17  in Resorts World Theatre. I have not personally seen any parts of it but the novelty is enough to make me want to see it. If you were born in the eighties then you know Cherie Gil's famous line "You  are nothing but a second rate trying hard copycat!". I'm curious to see if the shift from film to stage is successful or  ironically an  unimaginative copy cat. I have faith in this production, the cast is solid with seasoned theater artists. One can expect nothing but a meticulously put together production by Director Freddie Santos.  

http://www.rwmanila.com/web/bituing-walang-ningning/#

What with all the negative press about the Philippines, I highly recommend a purge. Cleanse yourself of negativity and consider a triple dose of live theater. The cliche' goes the Filipino is worthy dying for. I say no thanks to the melodramatics and yes to the  celebration of sensational  talent. The Filipino is worth living for. The Filipino is worth watching. Go buy tickets to these amazing productions. 

Check out the links for show details!