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In a thrilling culmination of the Far Eastern University Theater Guild's (FTG) 89th season, the highly anticipated production, "Ang Unang Aswang," is poised to take center stage alongside the FEU Center for the Arts (FCA). Written by Palanca awardee playwright Rody Vera and brought to life under the direction of Mr. Dudz Teraña, a distinguished member of the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) and the appointed Artistic Director of FTG, this play promises to be a spellbinding journey into the heart of the wilderness. Step into the shadows of a perilous forest, where the Aswang roams with sharp teeth, venomous stares, and the untamed ferocity of a wild beast. Amidst unfamiliar surroundings, the Aswang embarks on a quest to unearth her identity. Will her curiosity lead her to the discovery of her true self? Or will a heart-wrenching act by a young boy unleash her primal instincts, compelling her to consume her own kin? The exploration of fear and hesitation un...

In the vibrant world of Filipino literature, poetry stands as a timeless beacon of creativity and expression. It captures the essence of emotions, culture, and history, echoing the sentiments of generations past and present. Now, a remarkable anthology titled "Ningning at Liwanag" has emerged, featuring the works of ten grand winners of the prestigious Gawad Maningning Miclat, spanning from 2003 to 2021. This anthology not only celebrates the beauty of Filipino poetry but also pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of Maningning Miclat herself. Published by MMAFI (Maningning Miclat Art Foundation, Inc.) and Erehwon Artworld Corporation, "Ningning at Liwanag" is a hardbound, full-color masterpiece. The cover of this exquisite book features a painting by the illustrious Maningning Miclat, a multi-talented Filipina who left an indelible mark on the world of art and literature before her untimely passing at the age of 28 on September 29, 2000. The anthology is more than...

Are you ready to be serenaded by the enchanting sounds of harps? Mark your calendars because on October 9, 2023, at 5:00 PM, the Far Eastern University (FEU) Center for the Arts (FCA) is bringing you an extraordinary musical experience you won't want to miss. Dubbed "Tutti Harpi," this All-Harp Concert features twelve exceptionally talented Filipino Harpists led by the incomparable Madeline Jane Banta. The stage is set, and your heartstrings are about to be beautifully plucked at the FEU Auditorium. A Harmonious Journey The Tutti Harpi concert promises an evening of musical diversity, spanning from classical compositions to beloved Original Pilipino Music (OPM). The delicate and melodious sounds of the harp will transport you to a world of enchantment and emotion, touching the depths of your soul. But that's not all – this concert is more than just a musical performance. Joining the harpists on stage are the talented artists of the FEU Dance Company and the harmonious...

Photo: Daniel Boud The much-anticipated moment finally arrived in Manila as the Tony, Grammy, Olivier, and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, Hamilton, made its Asian premiere at The Theatre at Solaire. While the official opening night is set for Thursday, September 21, the excitement and fervor in the air were palpable during the show's first performance. Filipinos, who have eagerly awaited this moment since the season was announced in March, couldn't contain their enthusiasm as they welcomed this revolutionary musical to their shores. "Good things come to those who wait, and I know Hamilton's Filipino fans have been waiting patiently for this moment to arrive," said Michael Cassel, the producer of Hamilton's international tour. The Manila audiences responded with warmth, enthusiasm, and generosity, setting the stage for an extraordinary run of this groundbreaking production in Asia. The international tour of Hamilton is set to continue at The Theatre at Solair...

As the world slowly emerges from the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic, Repertory Philippines' Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA) is set to enchant audiences once again with their latest production, "Snow White and the Prince." This timeless fairy tale, written by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman, promises to be a delightful and heartwarming experience for audiences of all ages. Join us as we delve into the magic of this enchanting production and the dedicated team behind it. "Snow White and the Prince" invites audiences into a world of romance, jealousy, and magic. Snow White, on the eve of her birthday celebration, dreams of love and encounters a charming prince at the royal ball. However, her dreams are shattered by her jealous stepmother, leading to a thrilling adventure in the enchanted forest. The story features beloved characters like the magic mirror and the notorious poisoned apple. One of the guiding principles of RTYA is that children deserve the same ...

Get ready to laugh your hearts out as the uproarious Filipino musical, Walang Aray, makes its triumphant return to the stage. This side-splitting reimagination of Severino Reyes' classic zarzuela, Walang Sugat, promises to tickle your funny bone and warm your heart. With a limited three-weekend run at the PETA Theater Center from October 6 to 22, 2023, this is a theatrical event you won't want to miss. Walang Aray is a witty and hilarious spoof and tribute to the iconic zarzuela tradition. It takes the beloved themes of love, nationalism, and patriotism and gives them a contemporary twist. With a blend of catchy tunes, pop culture references, irreverent humor, witty wordplay, and razor-sharp one-liners, this musical promises to leave audiences in stitches from start to finish. PETA's decision to bring back Walang Aray for this limited engagement is a testament to the show's unique brilliance and charm. The initial run in 2019 was a resounding success, with multiple sold...

2TinCans Philippines, Inc. is bringing back the heartwarming classic, Steel Magnolias, to the stage in Cebu City. This production promises to be even more captivating with a perfect blend of seasoned talent and fresh faces, ensuring that audiences are in for an unforgettable experience. The restaging of Steel Magnolias is set to take place on September 23 to 24 and October 7 to 8, 2023, at the Siddhartha Theater, located within the Guang Ming Institute of Performing Arts on V. Rama Avenue, Cebu City. This iconic venue is the perfect backdrop for the timeless story of friendship and resilience. Under the direction of Vincent Paul Diez Gaton, the cast is poised to deliver a moving performance. Reprising their iconic characters are: Charlene Virlouvet as Truvy Jones Liana San Diego as Annelle Dupuy Clariza Mae Sevilla as Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie Yvette Yntig as M'Lynn Eatenton Marlinda Angbetic Tan as Clairee Belcher What's more, 2TinCans Philippines is excited to introduce two d...

Are you a budding poet with a passion for words and a desire to make your voice heard? The Maningning Miclat Art Foundation Inc. (MMAFI), in collaboration with the Far Eastern University Center for the Arts (FCA), Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts (IARFA), and Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS), invites you to take part in an enriching experience that could change the course of your poetic journey. The Maningning Poetry Workshop, set to take place on September 27, 2023, promises to be a day filled with inspiration, creativity, and learning. This workshop is an opportunity for emerging poets, aged 26 and younger, to refine their craft and explore the theme "Pagtatagumpay sa Pandemya" (Triumph in the Pandemic). Fifteen talented individuals will have the chance to participate in this transformative event, and the best part? It's absolutely free! The workshop is part of the one-day art and poetry extravaganza at the FEU University Conference Center, where participants...

In the realm of music, there are moments when creativity strikes like a bolt of lightning, and artists find themselves swept away by the magic of the moment. Such a serendipitous occurrence recently unfolded in the life of the incredibly talented and multi-awarded artist, Nicole Laurel Asensio. Her latest single, "Kiss Me Now," is a testament to the beauty of spontaneous creation and is set to be released on September 15. "A first kiss is rarely ever planned. In a paradisiacal time and place… when emotions are ripe… it just happens." These words, spoken by Nicole, capture the essence of her upcoming single. "Kiss Me Now" is a heartfelt, soulful composition that was born out of a whirlwind of inspiration during an impromptu recording session in Baguio. For Nicole, who is known for her meticulous approach to music, this spontaneous journey began when she felt the need for a change of scenery. One fateful night, she boarded a 3 a.m. bus alone to Baguio, seeki...

Photo from  https://www.instagram.com/manilaimprovfest/ In the world of show business, fame can be as fleeting as a shooting star. Many aspiring artists embark on their journeys with dreams of stardom, but only a select few make it to the upper echelons of the entertainment industry. What happens when those stars start to dim, and the spotlight fades away? Is there life beyond the glitz and glamour? In "Laos and Found," an upcoming improv show at the Manila Improv Festival, the dynamic duo of Janette McBride and Gabe Mercado takes center stage to explore these questions and more. A Flashback to Stardom Before we dive into the world of "Laos and Found," let's take a moment to revisit the beginnings of Janette and Gabe's showbiz careers. Janette McBride, known for her striking beauty and acting prowess, started her journey in showbiz by doing commercials. Her big break came when she auditioned for ABS-CBN's Star Circle, a prestigious artist training progra...

Photo from the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines Facebook Page Rediscovering an ancient epis through the fusion of dance and music In a unique blend of traditional storytelling, music, and dance, the much-anticipated Filipino rock opera ballet, RAMA, HARI, is making its triumphant return to the stage this September. With performances scheduled on September 15, 16, 22, and 23, this production promises to captivate audiences with its fusion of Filipino cultural heritage, artistry, and modern expression. A Collaborative Masterpiece RAMA, HARI holds a distinct position as a collaboration that unites the genius of five National Artists: Alice Reyes for Direction and Choreography, Ryan Cayabyab for Music, Salvador Bernal for Production Design, and Bienvenido Lumbera for the lyrics and libretto, with English Translations by Rolando Tinio. This impressive collaboration showcases the richness of Filipino artistic talent, creating a truly immersive and captivating experience for the audience. Presen...

Are you ready to be a part of history? Brace yourselves, theater enthusiasts and Hamilton fans in the Philippines, because the much-anticipated Hamilton digital ticket lottery is finally making its way to Manila! This is your golden opportunity to catch the international tour of the groundbreaking musical phenomenon, HAMILTON, as it takes center stage at The Theatre at Solaire, starting from September 17, 2023. The Power of the HAMILTON Lottery: Making Theater Accessible The brainchild of producers Jeffrey Seller and Michael Cassel, the HAMILTON digital ticket lottery, affectionately known as Ham4Ham, is set to revolutionize the way audiences secure tickets. This lottery, operated exclusively through TicketWorld in the Philippines, promises a chance to purchase orchestra tickets at an unbelievable price of PHP800 each. It's a remarkable initiative aimed at making this transformative theater experience accessible to a wider audience. Entering the Lottery: Your Shot at Securing Ticke...