Tanghalang Ateneo’s “Medea”: A Bold Revival of Greek Tragedy in Filipino Translation

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This November, Tanghalang Ateneo, the prestigious theater company at Ateneo de Manila University, brings a fresh take on Euripides’ classic tragedy Medea, translated into Filipino by the National Artist for Literature and Theater Rolando S. Tinio. This production, directed by Ron Capinding, delves deep into themes of betrayal, vengeance, and the raw power of passion—presented in the hauntingly beautiful language of Filipino.

A Timeless Story of Love, Rage, and Revenge

First performed in 431 BC, Medea is a powerful exploration of human emotions and the consequences of betrayal. Medea, a sorceress who sacrificed her homeland to help her husband Jason retrieve the Golden Fleece, is abandoned when Jason leaves her for Creon’s daughter. This act of betrayal pushes Medea into a dark descent, plotting a course of revenge that culminates in tragedy for Jason and his new bride.

"Eloquentia, Sapientia, Humanitas": The Ricky Season

The 46th season of Tanghalang Ateneo, titled “Eloquentia, Sapientia, Humanitas: The Ricky Season,” embodies the values of eloquence, wisdom, and humanity. According to Artistic Director Guelan Varela-Luarca, Medea reflects these themes, as it portrays the visceral power of words, love, and rage. Varela-Luarca notes that in ancient cultures, including Greek society, words were believed to possess physical and transformative power—a belief central to Medea’s compelling language and its exploration of human darkness and fury.

A Stellar Cast and Creative Team

The cast features Tanghalang Ateneo’s seasoned actors, including:

  • Miren Alvarez-Fabregas as Medea
  • Yan Yuzon as Jason
  • Joseph Dela Cruz as Aegeus
  • Katski Flores as the Nurse
  • Mark Aranal, Joel Macaventa as Tutors
  • Chot Kabigting, Ron Capinding as Creon
  • Gold Soon, Pickles Leonidas as the Chorus

The production team includes industry veterans, with Tata Tuviera for production design, Zak Capinding for sound, and D Cortezano for lighting, among other notable talents.

Show Schedule and Ticket Information

Medea will run from November 12 to November 24, 2024, with showtimes at 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM, and 7:00 PM on select dates. General public tickets are priced at PHP 700 and are available through Ticket2Me or Tanghalang Ateneo’s ticket link.

Connecting Through Classical Theater

Tanghalang Ateneo’s Medea promises to resonate deeply, drawing audiences into a narrative that highlights the emotional complexities of love, loss, and revenge. In a modern world where words often seem distant from physical effect, this production reminds us of their lasting impact.

For more details on the production, follow Tanghalang Ateneo on Facebook and Instagram.

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