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Arena filmmaker Nicole Yvonne Lee with thesis mentor Seymour Sanchez Young filmmakers' creative spirit and talent continue to shine as Nicole Yvonne Lee, a recent De La Salle-College of Benilde film graduate, brings her thesis film, "Arena," to the international stage. After securing a first-place victory in the 2023 Student World Impact Film Festival (SWIFF) in the comedy category, "Arena" is set to compete as one of the short film finalists at the prestigious Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video or Gawad Alternatibo. The film's success reflects the passion and dedication of its young storytellers, as they bring a heartwarming and comedic tale to the audience. "Arena" revolves around a young boy in a neighborhood thumb wrestling tournament who faces a formidable opponent he can't seem to defeat. The 20-minute coming-of-age film stars talented actors Matthew Stanley, Shawn Niño Gabriel, and Miaka Mon, along with an ensemble of chil...

Writers Panel, from left to right - Ronnel Vivo, Angelo Suarez, Mike Alcazaren In the wake of the tragic Himamaylan Massacre that claimed the lives of farmers Crispin Tingal Jr. and the Fausto Family, an urgent call for justice and an end to state terrorism against farmers and fisherfolk resonated throughout the country. Artista ng Rebolusyong Pangkultura (ARPAK), a group of artists and advocates, took the initiative to raise awareness about these heinous acts by organizing the "BUGLAS: An Anti-Fascist Artist Fair." Held on July 29 at AltFunc in Quezon City, this event served as a platform for artists to speak out against the atrocities and play a crucial role in forging a culture that resists and disrupts tyrannical rule. The Himamaylan Massacre left a scar on the hearts of many. On May 3, 2023, and June 14, 2023, the brutal killings of Crispin Tingal Jr. and four members of the Fausto family were attributed to the 94th Infantry Battalion. The Fausto family had endured haras...

Are you a fan of theater that's fresh, innovative, and full of young talent? If so, mark your calendars this August as Eksena PH presents the ninth installment of their renowned "Theatre Festival," Shorts & Briefs 9. This annual festival showcases short and brief plays, each lasting 10–12 minutes, featuring only first-time theater makers and performers. Shorts & Briefs has been running for nine years and is now returning to the live theater scene, presenting eight thrilling shows on all Sundays in August at the vibrant Draper Startup House in Poblacion Makati, Philippines. A Home for Aspiring Creators: The Origin of Shorts and Briefs The visionary Festival Director, Karl Alexis C. Jingco, founded Shorts & Briefs in 2015. The festival aims to create a safe space for first-timers and aspiring creators in the theater world to collaborate and unleash their creative spirits. Karl himself is a theater practitioner known for works revolving around improv and inclusiv...

Tanghalang Ateneo, the prestigious and long-standing theater company of the Loyola Schools of Ateneo de Manila, will present its exciting new play, "Ardór," with Guelan Varela-Luarca as its visionary writer and director. This dystopic masterpiece will provoke thought and stir emotions as it opens in August 2023. The play dares to ask a bold and unsettling question: Can anarchy be the only hope for social change? "Ardór" delves into the intricacies of the relationship between a young, angry, and alienated activist and their seven-year-old cousin, who may be an avatar, an indigo child, or even a messiah. As the plot unfolds, "Ardór" follows the activists as they attempt to stage a revolution, ready to sacrifice everything—sanity, love, and life—for a nation that has betrayed and deeply traumatized them. The story explores themes of patriotism, beauty, truth, and the profound desire for change. Guelan Varela-Luarca leads the production's artistic team. Th...

The highly acclaimed musical Hamilton continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its innovative storytelling and powerful performances. As the international tour prepares for its journey, Filipino fans have an extra reason to be excited. Rachelle Ann Go, a talented Filipino performer who originated the role of Eliza Hamilton in London's West End, will reprise her role in the upcoming tour. Let's delve into the significance of this casting choice and Hamilton's impact on the global theater scene. Hamilton's international tour, featuring a cast drawn from productions worldwide, is set to commence in Manila before heading to Abu Dhabi and other cities yet to be announced. The diverse company of 34 performers promises to deliver an extraordinary experience to audiences across continents. Jason Arrow leads them as Alexander Hamilton, and DeAundre' Woods as Aaron Burr, the international cast showcases immense talent and passion for the show. One of the highlights of ...

  The incredibly talented Nicole Laurel Asensio is gearing up to release her latest single, "What Matters Most." This heartfelt composition serves as a birthday treat to Nicole's loyal supporters while paying homage to those who inspired her musical journey. Imagine a hot summer sunrise, sleepless nights, and the lingering euphoria of a productive production session. During this transformative period, Nicole, accompanied by producer Gabe Dandan, stumbled upon the mesmerizing soundtrack of the film "Cadillac Records." Drawing inspiration from blues legends such as Etta James, Muddy Waters, and Howlin' Wolf, Nicole set out to infuse "What Matters Most" with a nostalgic and authentic sound that captures the essence of timeless love. The creative process behind "What Matters Most" showcases Nicole's unique approach to songwriting. Collaborating seamlessly with Gabe, the duo's instant and natural writing chemistry allowed them to expre...