Raised Fists and High Notes: The Kundiman Party Does a Repeat at PETA

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By Gerone Jan P. Baladhay
Floy Quintos thought that last year’s staging of his acclaimed political masterpiece: The Kundiman Party, was done and done. But this year, just few days after the upcoming national election, the latter find itself rooting a new home atop the PETA stage.

The revival will bring us back the beloved ensemble of Shamaine Centenera-Buencamino as Maestra Adela, Rica Nepomuceno as Melissa, Missy Maramara as Tita Mitch, Jenny Jamora (Tita Mitch alternate), Frances Makil Ignacio as Tita Mayen, Stella Canete-Balucas as Tita Helen and Miah Canton as Antoinette, who are part of the original cast.

Something to look forward to is the casting of Gabriel Paguirigan who will be making his acting debut as Ludwig, the Maestra’s pianist and colleague; Boo Gabunada as Bobby Valderama and Mr. Nonie Buencamino playing Senator Juancho Valderrama, and who in real life is Shamaine’s husband. Interesting interaction as this couple will have a pivotal scene where the two will be conflicting opinions that of the political light and that of an individual whose buried patriotism is being awaken by the new and far more complicated struggles of the society.

The Kundiman Party on its first run made rave reviews especially with the direction of Dexter M. Santos blending with Quinto’s narratives. But what seemed both puzzling and astonishing is the usage of Filipino kundiman songs, interwoven to great artistry in making the story work.

Music we all come to know growing up such as Nicanor Ablerdo’s Bituing Marikit or Francisco Santiago’s Pilipinas Kong Mahal are no longer songs that heralds our national identity but are transcended to become hymns of building national dignity. No wonder the show is a repertory miracle! It is a musical that highlights simple, melancholic songs and somehow was able to turn them to marching songs that illuminates a cry for social change.

How the cast of KP was able to pull through the strong political message whilst bending on lighthearted scenes, humor and even romance while high notes of longing are filling the air? I guess the only way to find out is be at the party itself!
The Kundiman Party will be staged once again at the PETA Theater from May 24 to June 2, 2019. For advocates of Mental Health Awareness there is a special show on June 1 in support for the Julia Buencamino Project (0917-701-2489). Book your tickets through 0917-660-1714.

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