Tanghalang Ateneo Presents "Ningning sa Silangan," a Powerful Parable of Hope and Resistance

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Tanghalang Ateneo, the premier theatre company of Ateneo de Manila University's Loyola Schools, proudly presents "Ningning sa Silangan," a compelling Filipino translation of Jo Clifford’s acclaimed play "A Light the Village," translated masterfully into Filipino by Jerry Respeto and directed by esteemed theatre practitioner Charles Yee. The play opens in March 2024 at the Rizal Mini Theater, Ateneo de Manila University.

As the culminating production of Tanghalang Ateneo's 46th season, titled "Eloquentia, Sapientia, Humanitas: The Ricky Season," "Ningning sa Silangan" is dedicated to the enduring legacy of the late Dr. Ricardo "Ricky" Abad. Dr. Ricky’s influential sociological approach to theatre emphasized wisdom, eloquence, and humanism—values integral to Tanghalang Ateneo’s vision. Notably, Dr. Ricky himself directed "Ningning sa Silangan" in 1999, later famously incorporating it into his 2009 Ateneo School of Humanities Lifetime Achievement Award acceptance speech.

The play explores a timeless and gripping narrative—a creation story depicting both death and rebirth. Five narrators guide the audience through a small village fraught with social, ideological, and personal conflicts. The narrative confronts the destructive legacies of patriarchy and capitalism, centering on two brothers with contrasting visions for their village: one clinging to their father's traditional legacy and the other drawn toward American industrial progress. Amidst their clash, Inang Kalikasan emerges as a pivotal voice, advocating for an alternative future rooted in environmental and social harmony.

"Ningning sa Silangan" serves as the undergraduate acting thesis of talented student-actors John Patrick Noynay, Louis Paguia, and Lyle Viray, guided by their advisor, Missy Maramara MFA PhD. The play's critical themes include social change, gender dynamics, resistance to oppressive structures, and reimagining power dynamics, all presented through a powerful, collective voice.

The impressive cast features:

  • Isa: Roldine Ebrada, Elio Severa

  • Dalawa: Maliana Beran, Louis Paguia

  • Tatlo: Cholo Ledesma, Johnrick Noynay

  • Apat: Teia Contreras, Chantei Cortez

  • Lima: Karl Borromeo, Lyle Viray

The artistic team, helmed by director Charles Yee, includes dramaturgs Sabrina Basilio and Nathania Kuy, set designer Mark Dalacat, costumes designer Tata Tuviera, lighting designer David Esguerra, sound designer Carlos Hombrebueno, movement designer Delphine Buencamino, intimacy director Missy Maramara, and graphic designer Franz Manlutac.

The production will run from March 27 to April 13, 2024, with various performance times to accommodate a wide audience. Tickets are available through Tanghalang Ateneo’s official ticketing link: bit.ly/ta46nsstickets. Special early bird rates and bulk-buying discounts are available for audiences.

Due to its sensitive themes—including depictions and references to violence, death, abuse, sexism, discrimination, and intercourse—audience discretion is advised.

Stay updated and connected with Tanghalang Ateneo through Facebook (fb.com/TanghalangAteneo) and Instagram (instagram.com/tanghalangateneo).

Don't miss this poignant and powerful theatrical event that not only entertains but also inspires meaningful reflection on the society we inhabit and the future we hope to create.

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