It is meta, it is casual, it is formal, it is poetic, it is period, it is modern, it is natural, it is paranormal, it is supernatural, it is romantic, it is comedic, it is family drama, it is psychological, it is philosophical. Simply put, it really is miraculous. This whirlwind of genres are seamlessly quilted in 3 acts of awe.
Given that it was in 3 acts meant that you would be in the Doreen Black Box for at least 3 hours. Don't worry, there are 2 intermissions, one after every act.
Here's a quick summary of the play:
The first act is a period play in itself. There was a bit of dissonance while I was watching since they were in Spanish Occupation era clothes but everyone was speaking in English. After maybe a few minutes, I got used to it. I'm not really a fan of period works but the storytelling kept me in my seat. It moves to the time of the Japanese Occupation and then to sometime in the present.
Common among all acts are the struggles of the women of each era and how empowerment and inner strength have made them be modern women of their own times. The script is full of wit and strength, sprinkled with humor to keep the audience engaged. Though some critics have said that the first two acts may have been shortened, I appreciate each minute as you feel the build up of every scene as they contribute to the explosion that is the third act.
Sitting on the risers may become a bit uncomfortable, given the duration of the play so I suggest being in line early to be able to get a seat on the front rows for more leg room and better chairs.
This is one of the plays that I wouldn't be hooked because of the synopsis but I regret nothing when I witnessed how the story was told by Tanghalang Ateneo. It's not too late. You may still catch Dolorosa from August 29-31 at 730PM, with a 230PM show on the 31st.
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