First international production of ‘The Bridges of Madison County the musical’ opens November 20

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"Things change. They always do, it's one of the things of nature. Most people are afraid of change, but if you look at it as something you can always count on, then it can be a comfort."

"I realized love won't obey our expectations, it's mystery is pure and absolute."

These are some quotes I love in a film titled "The Bridges of Madison County" sentimentalizes the four-day affair between an Italian-born, middle-aged farm wife whose passionate nature has long been dormant and a ridiculously romantic drifter. A moving love story about a photographer on assignment to shoot the historic bridges of Madison County. He meets a housewife, whose husband and children are away on a trip, and the film traces a brief affair that is never sordid but instead one of two soul mates who have met too late.

One of the most romantic stories ever written, and for the first first international production of the musical "The Bridges of Madison County" presents by Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group (ATEG) is set to open on November 20 and run until December 6 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati.

International musical theatre stage actos MiG Ayesa and Joanna Ampil (Photo: https://instagram.com/msmyrnz/)

Leading the cast as Francesca and Robert are two iconic performers of the international musical theatre stage, Joanna Ampil and MiG Ayesa, who recently performed a great song presented to the press and guests during the media launch held at Oakwood Premier Building, ADB Ave. Ortigas.

Based on the best-selling novel by Robert James Waller, THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY tells the story of Iowa housewife Francesca Johnson and her life-changing, four-day whirlwind romance with traveling photographer Robert Kincaid. 

The storyline

It’s an unforgettable story of two people caught between decision and desire, as a chance encounter becomes a second chance at so much more.

Joanna Ampil. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/Ateg

This brand new production features gorgeous, soulful music by Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The Last Five Years) that draws upon the rich textures of Americana and folk and the sweeping, expressive balladry of classic Broadway. The Daily News hails it as “one of Broadway’s best scores in the last decade.”

Joanna Ampil, who rose to stardom in London’s West End as Kim in Miss Saigon, Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar Eponine and Fantine in Les Miz and Christmas Eve in Avenue Q, says of her latest role, “It will be my first musical in Manila after a long hiatus. 

The last one was The Sound of Music in 2012. I'm hungry for a new challenge and this role of Francesca will certainly give me that challenge, stretch and creativity that I'm always craving for as an artist. Jason Robert Brown and I performed in London sometime ago way before he wrote Bridges and to be able to play a lead in one of his works will be a wonderful experience; because I know that he writes some amazing stuff. 

I look forward to sharing the stage with MiG Ayesa, also. But, the thing that appealed to me the most was the idea of working for ATLANTIS for the first time and being directed by Bobby Garcia.”

MiG Ayesa CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/Ateg

MiG Ayesa, who performed the role of Stacee Jaxx in ROCK OF AGES on Broadway and in Manila, says, “I am so thrilled to be returning to the Manila stage with this production of THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY. The score written by Jason Robert Brown is so breathtakingly beautiful it has to be considered a modern classic, and well deserved of the Tony Awards it received. 

I cannot wait to show such a different side to me, as the last time Manila audiences saw me was as the crazed rocker ‘Stacee Jaxx’ in ROCK OF AGES. The chance to be working opposite such a world class performer such as Jo Ampil, as well as under the direction of Bobby Garcia, promises to be an experience I will never forget. 

This will be my second stage production with ATEG, and it has always been a labour of love in that camp. Any excuse to visit the Philippines is worth the work! I cannot think of a better way than to return with such a production as beautiful as this.”

THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY is directed by Bobby Garcia, Choreography by Cecile Martinez, Musical Direction by Ceejay Javier, Set Design by Faust Peneyra, Lighting Design by JonJon Villareal, Costume Design by Eric Pineda, Hair and Make Up Design by Johann dela Fuente and Vocal Direction by ManMan Angsico.

Bobby Garcia, who directs the musical, says. “I am thrilled to have two of the finest musical theatre performers breathe vibrant life into these iconic characters. Creating this show with Joanna and MiG has been an extremely rewarding creative experience and I couldn’t imagine anyone else playing these parts. 

Jason Robert Brown’s score for BRIDGES is one of the most glorious musical theatre scores in recent memory. What a joy to hear it everyday in rehearsals. It is an honor to be able to stage this show for Manila audiences”

Also in the cast are Carla Guevara-Laforteza in the dual role of Marian and Chiara, Nino Alejandro as Bud, Emeline Celis-Guinid as Marge, Jamie Wilson as Charile, Bibo Reyes as Michael and Mikkie Bradshaw as Caroline. Joining them in the ensemble are Steven Conde, Nel Gomez, Franz Imperial, Yanah Laurel, Abi Sulit and Teetin Villanueva.

The unforgettable story about love, passion and choices that BRIDGE to a second chance is brought to you by ABS-CBN, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Delta Airlines, Oakwood Premier Joy~Nostalg Center Manila, Chrysler Philippines, Retro DCG-FM, Monster Radio RX 93.1, Crossover, Mellow 94.7 Sounds Good!, Portfolio Studios, Hit Productions Inc., Center of Aesthetic Studies, and Lynelle Hair Fashion.

 

Get your tickets now for what is destined to be the most romantic musical of the year! 

Tickets for THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY are available at Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Repertory Philippines adapts Secret Garden for a new generation

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Repertory Philippines is set to showcase another musical production; now of Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon’s adaptation of the classic story The Secret Garden. Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the story revolves around the lives of two abandoned youngsters Mary Lennox and Colin Craven who, through the power of love, begin to transform their spoiled and selfish ways for the better. The show runs simultaneously with Rep’s staging of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Rep’s version is anticipated to entertain audiences with a magical score and fascinating choreography but it shouldn't be missed largely because of the amazing young talent set to play the spirited main characters of the story. Playing the mischievous Mary Lennox are 12-year-old Ashlee Factor and 9-year-old Ginger Karganilla. Between them, they have already starred in five stage productions. Not only is Ashlee already playing a role in Rep’s production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, but she also played one of the lead characters of the theater production house’s adaptation of Scrooge. While Ginger took part in playing characters in Resorts World Manila’s Cinderella the Musical and The King & I.

As for the very headstrong Colin Craven, the role will be played by 11-year-old Daniel Drilon, 10-year-old Albert Silos, and 11-year-old Noel Comia. Not to be outshined by their female counterparts, the boys also have an impressive list of titles behind them. Apart from playing roles in Rep’s Scrooge, Pinocchio, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Noel had a role in Kids Acts Philippines’ Hua Mulan which earned him the Best Child Performer Award at the 27th Aliw Awards. Albert’s background includes roles in Resorts World Manila’s King & I and Cinderella and in Gantimpala Theater’s Kanser the Musical. While Daniel, despite having his professional debut just last year, has had years of intensive training in the performing arts which landed him lead roles in Rep’s Pinocchio and Scrooge.

With their extensive experience in theater arts and months of preparing for the role, the cast is set to bring the story of Secret Garden and its characters to life. “We like to perform to make the audience happy,” explains Daniel--a statement that resounded with the entire cast. Come opening day on November 20, that’s what they plan to do.

With director Anton Juan leading them, the entire production is sure to enthrall audiences no matter what age. Together with the story’s beautiful message, no doubt the show will be a hit. “Secret Garden has a really nice moral lesson, the music is catchy, and they should watch it because they will learn a lot,” shares Albert of the experience people should expect from the show.

The Secret Garden will be staged from November 20 to December 20, 2015 at the Onstage Theater in Greenbelt 1, Makati City. Ticket prices range from P500 to P1,000. For more details on the play, call Repertory Philippines at 843-3570 and book tickets through TicketWorld at 891-9999 or visit their website at www.ticketworld.com.ph.

Sarong Banggi, Ballet Philippines’ tribute to Filipino music and dance on October 16-18

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Rediscover local musical treasures in a new ballet about the Filipino family. Ballet Philippines’ Sarong Banggi features new works by six exciting Filipino choreographers set to classic folk songs from around the country, arranged and orchestrated by Ryan Cayabyab, the country’s best-loved composer. This show is co-presented by the Province of Albay.

The show features choreography by Carissa Adea, Ronelson Yadao, Cyril Aran Fallar, Paul Alexander Morales, Nonoy Froilan, and Carlo Pacis. Each choreographer brings to the stage his/her unique impression of the Filipino family in a new contemporary ballet with the cast led by Jean Marc Cordero, Earl John Arisola, Rita Angela Winder, and Monica Amanda Gana.

“Sarong Banggi will tug at the audience’s heartstrings with its nostalgic music and earnest look at traditional Filipino values,” says Ballet Philippines Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales”. “It will be interesting to see these choreographers’ different takes on familiar themes; love, loss and reconciliation that cements the Filipino family”

When asked by Morales to create two pieces for the show, Hong Kong-based choreographer Carlo Pacis was thrilled at the chance to come home and work with Ballet Philippines again. “As a Filipino living overseas, I felt that it was my responsibility to give back.” Pacis, former soloist of the Hong Kong Ballet is a two-time awardee for Outstanding Choreography at the Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards.

Sarong Banggi’s opening night on October 16 is a Filipiniana Gala featuring the live performance of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Cayabyab himself.

The music of the show was recently created by the Cultural Center of the Philippines in the special Collector’s Edition CD entitled “Serenata: Well-loved Philippine Folk Songs and Melodies”. Included in the album are the Kapampangan “Atin cu Pung Singsing”, the Hiligaynon “Ay Kalisud”, and the Tagalog “Dalagang Pilipina” and “Saranggola ni Pepe”, among others.

Sarong Banggi’s libretto is by Dennis Marasigan, lighting design by Meliton Roxas Jr., sets by Ohm David, and costume design by Rajo Laurel.

Sarong Banggi will be performed from October 16 to 18 at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater). For inquiries, visit www.ballet.ph, send an email to info@ballet.ph, or call Ballet Philippines at 551-1003. For tickets and reservations, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Major sponsors of Ballet Philippines’ 46th Season include Globe Platinum, San Miguel Corporation, and Belle Corporation.

Connect to Ballet Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @balletphilippines

YouTube: balletph

To join in the Ballet Philippines conversation, use our official hashtags: #balletph, #dancespring, #sarongbanggi

‘Bituin Fever’ is back! Resorts World Manila’s ‘Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical’ shines bigger and brighter

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Resorts World Manila (RWM), through Full House Theater Company and Ultimate Productions, and in partnership with VIVA Communications, sets its sights on producing another memorable run with more musical numbers and added star power as it brings back ‘Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical’, starting October 8, 2015.

From its outstanding cast, remarkable stage design, and moving storyline, the luster of ‘Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical’s’ first foray made sure that a second run would be inevitable. Back by popular demand, the stage adaptation of the classic Filipino drama promises to dazzle audiences anew as it takes the stage of Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT) for its highly anticipated encore performances.

“Bituing Walang Ningning remains to be one of the most beloved Filipino dramas. It tells a story about dreams, love, and humility, which are the virtues we are anchoring to in developing this production,” says RWM Chief Integrated Marketing Officer Martin Paz.

Earning critical acclaim during its initial, month-long foray earlier this year, the musical captured the hearts and imagination of entertainment fans and theater enthusiasts alike. Reprising their roles as the main cast of this original, all-Filipino production are theater stars Cris Villonco, Mark Bautista, and newcomer Monica Cuenco who shined as the new Dorina Pineda, a role popularized by Sharon Cuneta on film and Sarah Geronimo on the drama’s TV stint.

Accompanying the brilliant leads is a powerhouse ensemble which consists of veteran actors Jon Santos, Ronnie Liang, Jay Roa, John Nite, Michael Stuart Williams, and the first lady of Philippine musical theater Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo. Adding to the musical’s constellation of stage stars are singer and actress Antoinette Taus, who will play alternate to Cris Villonco as main antagonist Lavinia Arguelles, as well as multi-talented actor Epi Quizon as Jon Santos’ alternate for the role of Auntie.

‘Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical’ brings to life a story that has transcended Philippine entertainment. Originally told over a serialized comic strip by fictionist Nerissa Cabral, the story was made into a blockbuster movie in 1985 and was then re-made into a hit television series back in 2006.

The production marked the first time a contemporary drama has crossed over multiple media, from print, cinema, television, and finally on stage. The drama’s theater foray is told along with the timeless music of the great Willy Cruz which is scored by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Rodel Colmenar with veteran stage director Freddie Santos at the helm.

Pursuing its advocacy to ‘Champion the Filipino’, RWM continues to showcase the best of what local entertainment can offer.

"Our vision is to establish an avenue for a new genre of original Pinoy performing arts that will open doors for next generation thespians, playwrights, and producers to explore," Paz added.

For more about Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical Second Run, including cast details and show schedules, visitwww.rwmanila.com/web/bituing-walang-ningning/.

Tickets are now available at all TicketWorld and TicketNet outlets and at the RWM Box Office.

Ballet Philippines opens its season with Body Positive + from September 12 to 19

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DANCE ARTS TREATS 2015:

BE POSITIV+

SEPT. 12 and 19

CCP TANGHALANG AURELIO TOLENTINO

Swans, Queers, and the rise of AIDS take the spotlight in Body Positive + from September 12 to 19

Ballet Philippines opens its season with Body Positive +, A Dance Gala for HIV Awareness. Featuring excerpts from Swan Lake, Mark Bogaerts’ Bolero, Enrico Labayen’s Cloth, and other landmark pieces, the show celebrates the dancers’ innate athleticism in the context of the alarming rise of HIV in the Philippines.

The prevalence of HIV in the country has risen by over 50% in the last 3 years, yet the general public remains largely unaware. Males having sex with other males (MSM) remains the predominant mode of transmission among males and comprised 84% of infections through sexual contact from the study period of January 2010 to April 2015. With around 20 newly reported cases of HIV per day in 2015, Ballet Philippines was compelled to raise its voice about the matter.

On why BP decided to adopt this particular advocacy in its season opener, Ballet Philippines Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales says, “When the HIV/AIDS epidemic struck many countries in the 80s, the Philippines was mostly unaffected. Now it’s here, and it’s spreading at three times the rate that it was in 2012, but it’s hardly being talked about. Body Positive + is our small contribution towards changing that.”

One of the featured dances in the Body Positive + program is Enrico Labayen’s award-winning choreography, “Cloth”. It is a dance of two men that investigates missed opportunities for meaningful connections and unrequited emotions. Labayen’s works comment and inform “how society, politics and cultures deals with the plague from the black death in the dark ages up to the plague that haunts us at present such as HIV/AIDS, SARS and the H1N1 virus.” In 1997, “Cloth” won Labayen his first Isadora Duncan award for “Outstanding Achievement in Choreography”, and in 2011, he received the same award for his design and work entitled “en-Gulf-ed”. He is an alumnus of Ballet Philippines and is a staunch AIDS advocate.

At the end of the day, this is still a Ballet Philippines production, and that means having some fantastic dancing. We’re giving some of our young ballerinas a chance to shine, with the White Swan and Black Swan Pas de Deux, as well as the iconic Cygnets pas de quatre from Swan Lake. Monica Amanda Gana and Garry Corpuz dazzle in the romantic White Swan, while Jemima Reyes and Jean Marc Cordero showcase their bravura in the Black Swan Pas de Deux.

These classical swans will also be joined by contemporary counterparts in Erl Emmanuel Sorilla’s “Requiem to a Cygnet”. Last performed in April 2015 at BP’s Young Dancers and Choreographers Showcase for International Dance Day, the piece features three male dancers in white tutus, mourning the death of their sibling.

In addition to the show. Artletics Inc., a group of painters and visual artists convened by the social realist painter, Manny Garibay will join Ballet Philippines and show support by holding a 50-painting exhibit. The exhibit will highlight health and well-being. The exhibit will be displayed at the CCP Little Theater lobby during the Body Positive +’s first weekend and will then be toured to public venues all around Metro Manila.

Body Positive + will be performed at the CCP Little Theater from September 12 to 19, 2015 at 6:00PM. For inquiries, visit www.ballet.ph, send an email to info@ballet.ph, or call Ballet Philippines at 551-1003. For tickets and reservations, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Ballet Philippines (BP) is the flagship professional classical and contemporary dance company in the country. A resident company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, it was founded in 1969 by Alice Reyes and Eddie Elejar. It is widely recognized today as a cornerstone of the contemporary Filipino identity. The Ballet Philippines Dance School continues to produce dancers of international caliber.

Connect to Ballet Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @balletphilippines

YouTube: balletph

To join in the Ballet Philippines conversation, use our official hashtags:‪#‎balletph‬, ‪#‎dancespring‬, ‪#‎bodypositive‬, ‪#‎bepositive‬

BP celebrates its 46th anniversary season under the direction of Paul Alexander Morales. Witness the rise of a new generation of Philippine dance in Dance Spring [Pagsibol].

Tanghalang Ateneo presents 37th season with the theme "Staging Revolution/s"

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THEATER ARTS TREATS 2015 : TANGHALANG ATENEO PRESENTS 37TH SEASON LINE-UP OF PRODUCTIONS

Tanghalang Ateneo, the longest-running theater company of the Loyola Schools of the Ateneo de Manila University, is celebrating its 37th season with the theme "Staging Revolution/s".

Growing from a fledgling band of student players to one of the country’s leading school-based theater companies, Tanghalang Ateneo will stage this season three works that have been deemed revolutionary when they were first unleashed to the world.

These productions are:

R.U.R. (Robot Unibersal ni Rossum)

written by Karel Čapek

translation by Guelan Varela-Luarca

direction by JK Anicoche

September 30, October 1-3, 6-10, and 13-17

Venue: Ateneo's Fine Arts Black Box Theater

"R.U.R. (ROSSUM’S UNIVERSAL ROBOTS/ROBOT UNIBERSAL NI ROSSUM)" is a science fiction classic by Czech writer Karel Capek. Originally written in Czech, this Tanghalang Ateneo production will use a new Filipino translation by Palanca winner Guelan Varela-Luarca. The play is about the rebellion of human-like creatures called robots that leads to the extinction of the human race. The danger of man’s desires of a utopian and totalitarian world is one of the play's central themes.

TA Lab: Utos ng Hari - a devised production of Jun Cruz Reyes’ “Utos ng Hari”

direction by Ricardo Abad

November 24-28, and December 1-5

Venue: Ateneo's Fine Arts Black Box Theater

TA Lab is a Tanghalang Ateneo project that features the company's trainees as actors and the company members as members of the production staff. This season, Jun Cruz Reyes’ "Utos ng Hari", a short story about a student’s rebellion against the repressing methods of his school’s authorities, will be presented in a devised production.

KALANTIAW 

written by Rene O. Villanueva

direction by Charles Yee

March 30-31, April 1-2, 5-9, and 12-6 

Venue: Ateneo's Rizal Mini-Theater

Based on real-life events, "Kalantiaw", originally entitled “Ang Kagila-gilalas na Kasinungalingan Tungkol sa Isang Kayumangging Bayan”, is written by the country's leading playwright in Filipino Rene O. Villanueva. This Palanca First Prize-winning play is about the life of historian Jose Marco and the hoax he created - the controversial Code of Kalantiaw. The play, first performed at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and then at the Theatre Le Rond Point in Paris by Tanghalang Pilipino, forces us to take a closer and more critical look at our sense of nationalism.

Glenn Sevilla Mas, a well-respected playwright and 9-time Palanca winner for drama, is the artistic director of the company and the Theater Arts Program Coordinator of the Ateneo de Manila University.

The officers of Tanghalang Ateneo (SY 2015-2016) are: 

Hershee D. Tantiado (Company Manager)

Rnice E. Delgra (Finance Officer)

Maria Del Carmen B. Juliano (Marketing Coordinator)

Nicolo M. Perez (Publicity Coordinator)

Gabriel Maria F. Tibayan (Secretary General)

Bianca G. Bautista (Special Projects Officer)

John Brian E. De Asis (Theater Manager).

For inquiries and reservations, please contact Madel Juliano at 0917-631-4387 or email: ta.mpc78@gmail.com.

Connect to Tanghalang Ateneo online through the following social media networks:

Facebook:www.facebook.com/TanghalangAteneo

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TAOfficial_

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tanghalangateneo

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/tanghalangateneo

Joanna Ampil and MiG Ayesa lead the cast of the Tony Award winning musical THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY

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Two iconic performers share the same stage for the first time in what is sure to be the most romantic musical of the year. West End musical theatre star Joanna Ampil and Broadway and West End rock star MiG Ayesa lead the cast of the first international production of the Tony Award winning musical THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, produced by Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group (ATEG) in November 2015.

Fresh from the success of SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER, which is now embarking on an Asian Tour, ATEG brings you THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, one of the most romantic stories ever written. 

Now an irresistible, two-time Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, based on the best-selling novel by Robert James Waller, THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY tells the story of Iowa housewife Francesca Johnson and her life-changing, four-day whirlwind romance with traveling photographer Robert Kincaid. It’s an unforgettable story of two people caught between decision and desire, as a chance encounter becomes a second chance at so much more.

Joanna Ampil

This brand new production features gorgeous, soulful music by Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The Last Five Years) that draws upon the rich textures of Americana and folk and the sweeping, expressive balladry of classic Broadway. The Daily News hails it as “one of Broadway’s best scores in the last decade.”

Joanna Ampil, who rose to stardom in London’s West End as Kim in Miss Saigon and Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar, says of her latest role, “It will be my first musical in Manila after a long hiatus. The last one was The Sound of Music in 2012. I'm hungry for a new challenge and this role of Francesca will certainly give me that challenge, stretch and creativity that I'm always craving for as an artist. Jason Robert Brown and I performed in London sometime ago way before he wrote Bridges and to be able to play a lead in one of his works will be a wonderful experience; because I know that he writes some amazing stuff. I look forward to sharing the stage with MiG Ayesa, also. But, the thing that appealed to me the most was the idea of working for ATLANTIS for the first time and being directed by Bobby Garcia.”

MiG Ayesa

MiG Ayesa, who performed the role of Stacee Jaxx in ROCK OF AGES on Broadway and in Manila. “I am so thrilled to be returning to the Manila stage with this production of THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY. The score written by Jason Robert Brown is so breathtakingly beautiful it has to be considered a modern classic, and well deserved of the Tony Awards it received. I cannot wait to show such a different side to me, as the last time Manila audiences saw me was as the crazed rocker ‘Stacee Jaxx’ in ROCK OF AGES. The chance to be working opposite such a world class performer such as Jo Ampil, as well as under the direction of Bobby Garcia, promises to be an experience I will never forget. This will be my second stage production with ATEG, and it has always been a labour of love in that camp. Any excuse to visit the Philippines is worth the work! I cannot think of a better way than to return with such a production as beautiful as this,” said MiG .

Directed by Bobby Garcia, who recently directed the critically acclaimed Asian Tour of SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER, THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY opens on November 20, 2015 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati. Select shows are now available for Show Buying and fundraising opportunities. Corporate Packages are also available. 

Contact Jorelle at 0917-8381534 or info@ategasia.com for more information.

Casts reunite in Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical Finale

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Resorts World Manila (RWM), an active supporter of Philippine performing arts gained a resounding success for its latest theater production Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical as it held its finale last July 18 at Newport Performing Arts Theater with original cast members and creators sharing the stage with the new cast and creators at curtain call.

Originals Mr. Christopher De Leon, Mr. Joel Torre and Ms. Chanda Romero with film director Mr. Emmanuel “Maning” Borlaza, storywriter Ms. Nerissa Cabral and songwriter Willy Cruz joined new generation cast of Bitung Walang Ninging: The Musical for a fitting nostalgic ending to its first run with a chorus of the musical’s theme. 

With its run of 25 shows, the first-ever musical production to crossover from mainstream media (first in print, to film and television) earned rave reviews from both audiences and critics.

“Go see it! It’s very entertaining and you’re going to enjoy it,” said noted actor Mr. Christopher De Leon who played the character of Nico Escobar in the film version.

Other original cast members of Bituing Walang Ningning also gave praises to the new version of Nerrissa Cabral’s timeless story including veteran actor Mr. Joel Torre who played Garry Diaz in the film. “I was very entertained because I couldn’t figure out how they would make a movie into a musical play. It was very engaging, the songs are still there. It’s beautiful and it’s nice to see an iconic pop culture being translated into the stage,” he said. 

Critics likewise had good words for the pioneering theater effort in Philippine performing arts saying that its multimedia success is a testament to its appeal among Filipinos.

With much clamor from fans, Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical will come out form a two-month hiatus and resume for its second run on October 8 this year.

Bituing Walang Ningning is headlined by new discovery Monica Cuenco who was also a testament to how Filipinos embraced the new version of the classic in how she portrayed antagonist Dorina Pineda. 

Monica’s own life story even closely resembles her character as Dorina in how she first had her own struggles vending puto cheese at school prior to earning a spot to one of the most celebrated musicals this year. “I’m very happy, excited, and blessed for this opportunity. This is the star I’ve always been praying for,” shared Monica.

Catch the second run of Bituing Walang Ninging: THE Musical this October at Newport Performing Arts Theater. 

For more updates and other entertainment events at Resort World Manila, visit www.rwmanila.com or call the Tourist/Visitor Hotline at (632) 908-8833.

RWM is the first one-stop, non-stop entertainment and leisure destination in the Philippines that features recreational thrills, world-class performances, unique events, and exciting lifestyle options.

Conveniently located across Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, RWM is an instant gateway to world-class Philippine hospitality and is home to three international lodging brands, (MAXIMS Hotel, MARRIOTT Hotel Manila, and REMINGTON Hotel), a three-story convention center housing the country’s largest hotel ballroom (Marriott Grand Ballroom), and two more hotels (SHERATON Hotel Manila and HILTON Hotel Manila) currently under construction. 

Also home to RWM is The NEWPORT Mall which features international luxury brands, state-of-the-art movie theaters the Newport Cinemas, an award-winning, ultra-modern Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT), and a cozy, 24/7 entertainment hub at Bar 360. Dine in one of almost 50 restaurant outlets offering a diverse selection of local and world cuisine, prepared by top Filipino and foreign chefs and paired with a wide selection of the finest wines and popular liquors.

Resorts World Manila— Nothing Compares.

Red Turnip Theater opens new season with musical play "33 Variations"

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Red Turnip Theater is back for another season! Their splashy debut season gave us the much talked about hits CLOSER and COCK, which was followed up with the critically-acclaimed sophomore season of RABBIT HOLE and last February’s TIME STANDS STILL.

All four productions have gone on to reap multiple awards and nominations from the Aliw and BroadwayWorld Philippine Awards, with COCK topping critics’ lists as the Best Play of 2014. True to form, this band of 5 actors (Ana Abad Santos, Topper Fabregas, Jenny Jamora, Cris Villonco, Rem Zamora) promises to push the envelope further as they show another facet to Red Turnip this year.

Opening the Third Season is 33 VARIATIONS by Moisés Kaufman. 

33 VARIATIONS tells the story of a renowned musicologist, Katherine Brandt, who is on a mission to discover why Beethoven composed the Diabelli variations, considered as one of his greatest masterpieces. Her daughter, Clara, is on a mission to find her place in her mother's world. Together, they maneuver through Beethoven's colorful life, their own challenging relationship, and somehow find their answers within his music. Shifting between periods and places, 33 VARIATIONS is the story of mothers and daughters and the legacies we long to leave behind.

33 VARIATIONS made its Broadway premiere in 2009, famously marking Jane Fonda’s return to the theater after a 46-year absence in the role of Katherine. It went on to garner several Tony Award nominations, including Best Play and Best Actress for Fonda. It had previously won the Edgerton New American Play Award in 2007 and the Steinberg American Theatre Critics Association Best New Play Award in 2008. 

Leading the Manila cast are theater icons Shamaine Centenera-Buencamino and Teroy Guzman. Fresh off her heralded turns in Tanghalang Pilipino’s “Juego de Peligro” and the CinemaOne Original indie “Lorna”, Shamaine steps into the role of Katherine. This is sure to add to her list of memorable performances that already include Queen Elizabeth (“Mary Stuart”), Elizabeth Proctor (“The Crucible”), Masha (“Three Sisters”) and Jocasta (“Oedipus Rex”) just to name a few. 

Shamaine Centenera-Buencamino

Teroy Guzman plays Ludwig Van Beethoven. He is most recently known for his King Lear in the PETA adaptation “Haring Lear”, Tiyoy Berning in Tanghalang Ateneo’s “Rite of Passage” and the title role in Anton Juan’s “Screen: Macbeth”. Notorious for shying away from the spotlight, Red Turnip is glad to give Guzman center stage in his return to the contemporary drama.

Teroy Guzman

Theater stalwarts Paolo O’ Hara, Rem Zamora and Roselyn Perez make up the supporting cast. O’Hara (“Hedda Gabler”, “Titus Andronicus”, “Tatlong Mariya”) and Zamora (“The 39 Steps”, “Skin Deep”, “Glorious”), complete the Beethoven flashback scenes as Anton Diabelli and Anton Schindler respectively. Perez (“Equus”, “Frozen”, “The Normal Heart”) is Gertrude Ladenburger, Katherine’s stern and loyal confidante.

Paolo O’ Hara

Rem Zamora

Roselyn Perez

Rounding out the cast are fresh faces Ina Fabregas and Franco Chan. Fabregas is Clara, Katherine’s estranged daughter who slowly starts to fall in love with her mother’s male nurse, Mike Clark, played by Chan.

Ina Fabregas 

Franco Chan

33 VARIATIONS also marks Red Turnip’s first show to incorporate live music: critical moments in the play are underscored by the Diabelli Variations themselves, played live and on stage by Ejay Yatco (“Sa Wakas”, “Dani Girl”, “The Boy in the Bathroom”).

Ejay Yatco

Although he is mostly known as a composer and musical director, the 24 year-old has also competed at the 2013 World Championship of Performing Arts under the Classical Piano category, where he made it to the final 3 instrumentalists of the world and took home one gold and three silver medals. Yatco will be playing the Variations on a baby grand piano, provided by LYRIC.

Jenny Jamora makes her directorial debut.

Jenny Jamora

“We had decided on this show almost two years ago, we knew it was what we had wanted to open the Third Season with. This play has been simmering in my head since then. ’33 Variations’ is such an elegant, intricate piece of work and I am excited by the challenge of bringing it to life. I’ve also surrounded myself with a powerhouse cast and a young, energetic production team. I cannot wait for everyone to see what they’ve all brought to the table. It’s going to be unlike anything you’ve seen from Red Turnip so far.”

33 VARIATIONS opens July 24 and runs weekends until August 23 at Whitespace, Makati.

Tickets are available through TicketWorld (891-9999 or www.ticketworld.com.ph) or Red Turnip Theater (redturniptheater@gmail.com or https://www.facebook.com/RedTurnipTheater)

Lighting Design / Technical Direction: John Batalla

Set Design: Ed Lacson, Jr.

Costume Design: Raven Ong

Sound Design: Teresa Barrozo

Choreography: PJ Rebullida

Dramaturgy: Mahar Mangahas

33 VARIATIONS is presented in cooperation with Whitespace, Lyric, FILA, and PLDT.

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“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” all set for a move-over engagement run on July 3

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Due to insistent public clamor, Manila’s newest theater group Dalanghita Productions, proudly brings back the highly-acclaimed “KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY THE MUSICAL” in a move-over engagement beginning July 3 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” revolves story of two sisters named MELY and VIVA who both yearn to fulfill their dreams. Their sibling relationship and rivalry becomes more complicated due to an unsettled past and a budding romance, all in the context of an ongoing war between the superhero and supervillain teams. Being a maid is tough enough, but when Mely lands a job under a group of superheroes, she steps up to the unique challenge for the sake of her family. The musical takes us through the journey of the characters as each tries to find his/her place in the world where superheroes and supervillains exist. 

Based from Carlo Vergara’s one-act play and graphic novel of the same title, “ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY ” will once again prove how can an original Filipino musical combine comedy, drama, romance, action, deception, confessions, superheroes, supervillains, family and a maid in one fantastic show. 

The cast of “KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY” boasts of the most talented and highly-respected artists coming from the theater, television and film industry. Topbilled to play the various roles are Bituin Escalante and Frenchie Dy (Mely – maid of Puwersa Pilipinas), Kim Molina and Natasha Cabrera (Viva – Mely’s younger sister), Markki Stroem and Hans Eckstein (Leading Man – newest member of Puwersa Pilipinas), Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and Astarte Abraham (Madre De Dios – leader of Puwersa Pilipinas).

Lending support are the multi-faceted actors from Manila’s different theater companies namely include May Bayot (Nanay – Mely and Viva’s mother), Giannina Ocampo (Nena Babushka), Caisa Borromeo (Windang Woman), Chesko Rodriguez (Popoy Pusakal), Jef Flores (Bazooka Man), Nar Cabico and Domi Espejo (Senyor Blangko – leader of Kayumanggilas), Red Nuestro (Maracas Marko), Red Concepcion and Joshua Cabiladas (Itak-Atak), Elliot Eustacio (Jeryc Sans Rival), Mikoy Morales and Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Henyotic).

The ensemble is composed of Kakki Teodoro, Raflesia Bravo, Jem Baldisimo, Juancho Escoto, Miguel Ocampo, Francis Benjamin Jorvina, Alejandro Santos and Brian Sy. 

The artistic and creative teams of “Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” are as follows: Carlo Vergara (Creator and Writer), Vincent de Jesus (Music and Lyrics), Chris Martinez (Director), Ejay Yatco (Musical Director) Mara Marasigan (Assistant Director), Tuxqs Rutaquio (Production Designer), John Batalla (Lighting Designer and Technical Director), Jethro Joaquin (Sound Designer), Nancy Crowe (Choreographer). 

The production team is composed of Ansis Aldrich Tan Sy, Pertee Briñas and Claudia Fernandez (Producers), John Aries Alcayaga (Stage Manager), Ayam Eckstein and Ria Pangilinan (Production Managers), Julius Martin Lunar and Kim Mendoza (Assistant Stage Managers), Toots Tolentino (Publicist), Prodbook PH (Social Media Manager), Chester Ng (Photography).

“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” is set to open on July 3 and will run for three weekends until July 23, 2014. The show starts promptly at 8 p.m. (Friday-Satiurday). Matinee shows (Saturday-Sunday) start at 3 p.m. 

All performances are at ONSTAGE, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

For bulk reservations, show buys, and inquiries, call or text at mobile number 0998-5311389 or send email to dalanghitaproductions@gmail.com. For tickets, please call Ticketworld at 891-9999 or via http://www.ticketworld.com.ph

Connect to Dalanghita Productions online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DalanghitaProductions

www.facebook.com/LeadingLadyTheMusical

Twitter: @dalanghitaprod

Instagram: @dalanghitaprod

‘Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical’ opens at Resorts World Manila

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“You’re nothing but a second rate, trying hard copy cat!” This immortal line lashed out in utter contempt by diva Lavinia Arguelles to loyal fan and newcomer Dorina Pineda just before the former throws a glass of wine at the latter’s face makes for one of the most memorable scenes in Filipino entertainment.

Who could ever forget the stellar performances of actresses Sharon Cuneta and Sarah Geronimo who played the role of Dorina, and their counterparts Cherie Gil and Angelika Dela Cruz as Lavinia in past productions?

After crossing over various media from serialized comics to film and then television, this iconic story of superstardom with the redemption and humility that it entails is now given new life by the country’s premiere entertainment and lifestyle destination, Resorts World Manila (RWM), as it presents Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical this June at Newport Performing Arts Theater.

This time, the classic story returns as a musical and is given a new twist with stage master Freddie Santos at the helm. Headlining the stage version of Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical are newcomer Monica Cuenco who plays the role of protagonist Dorina Pineda alongside pop star turned stage actor Mark Bautista (fresh from his stint in London’s “Here Lies Love”) as Nico Escobar, and stage veteran Cris Villonco as Lavinia Arguelles.

“Resorts World Manila has always been a staunch advocate of the Filipino performing arts,” shared RWM’s Chief Entertainment Officer Colin Kerr.

“The dream of staging this iconic Filipino story is a dream come true for RWM. Bituing Walang Ningning’s adaptation into many forms shows its novelty to audiences and we trust that every generation will again fall in love with its story through our theater production,” Kerr added. 

Featuring some of the most memorable songs in Original Pilipino Music penned by the legendary Willy Cruz as conducted by Maestro Rodel Colmenar with the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical also casts award-winning stage performers Michael Stuart Williams and the First Lady of Philippine Musical Theater Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, together with reality talent search standout Ronnie Liang and popular TV personality John Nite, among others.

Catch Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical at Resorts World Manila every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 8PM, and on Sundays at 3PM until July 18, 2015.

Tickets are now on sale at the Resorts World Manila Box Office at the ground floor of Newport Mall, and in all TicketWorld and TicketNet outlets. Visit www.rwmanila.com or call 908-8000 local 7700; 891-9999; and 911-5555 to buy your tickets to this Filipino musical.

RWM is the first one-stop, non-stop entertainment and leisure destination in the Philippines that features recreational thrills, world-class performances, unique events, and exciting lifestyle options.

Conveniently located across Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, RWM is an instant gateway to world-class Philippine hospitality and is home to three international lodging brands, (MAXIMS Hotel, MARRIOTT Hotel Manila, and REMINGTON Hotel) with two more hotels (SHERATON Hotel Manila and HILTON Hotel Manila) currently under construction. 

Also home to RWM is The NEWPORT Mall which features international luxury brands, state-of-the-art movie theaters the Newport Cinemas, an award-winning, ultra-modern Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT), and a cozy, 24/7 entertainment hub at Bar 360. Dine in one of almost 50 restaurant outlets offering a diverse selection of local and world cuisine, prepared by top Filipino and foreign chefs and paired with a wide selection of the finest wines and popular liquors.

Amp all the thrills offered exclusively by Resorts World Manila by becoming a cardholder! Membership at RWM is free and provides an instant pass to numerous discounts, freebies, and exclusive invites to RWM events.

Resorts World Manila— Nothing Compares.

"The Normal Heart" is set to open on July 3

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"THE NORMAL HEART" is the 2011 Tony Award Winner for Best Revival of a Play about the early rise of the HIV-AIDS crisis in New York City in the early 1980s. During this period, a deadly epidemic was decimating North America’s gay population, killing people in the thousands, devastating an entire generation and changing the way we think about sex forever.

Written by playwright and activist Larry Kramer, "The Normal Heart" is set to open on July 3 (Fri) 8pm with succeeding limited performances on July 4 (Sat) 3pm & 8pm; July 5 (Sun) 3pm & 8pm at the Carlos P. Romulo auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.

Topnotch theater actor Bart Guingona, who also directs the play and shall essay the role of the very intense activist Ned Weeks who is both difficult and charming.

"The Normal Heart" shows with stage actors and tv personalities like Richard Cunanan, Topper Fabregas, TJ Trinidad, Roselyn Perez, Red Concepcion, Nor Domingo and Jef Flores who will take on multiple roles such as Craig, Grady and the Hiram Keebler City Hall representative.

Topper Fabregas and Bart Guingona in The Normal Heart

SYNOPSIS:

During the early 1980s, Jewish-American writer and gay activist Ned Weeks struggles to pull together an organization focused on raising awareness about the fact that an unidentified disease is killing off an oddly specific group of people: gay men largely in New York City. Dr. Emma Brookner, a physician and survivor of polio, as a consequence of which she is using a wheelchair, is the most experienced with this strange new outbreak and bemoans the lack of medical knowledge on the illness, encouraging the abstinence of gay men for their own safety, since it is unknown yet even how the disease is spread. Ned, a patient and friend of Brookner, calls upon his lawyer brother, Ben, to help fund his crisis organization; however, Ben's attitude toward his brother is to give merely passive support, ultimately exposing his apparent homophobia. For the first time in his life, meanwhile, Ned falls in love, beginning a relationship with New York Times writer Felix Turner.

The increasing death toll raises the unknown illness, now believed to be caused by a virus, to the status of an epidemic, though the press remains largely silent on the issue. A sense of urgency guides Ned who realizes that Ben is more interested in buying a two-million-dollar house than in backing Ned's activism. Ned explosively breaks off ties to his brother until Ben can fully accept Ned and his homosexuality. Ned next looks to Mayor Ed Koch's administration for aid in financing research about the epidemic that is quickly killing off hundreds of gay men, including some of Ned's personal friends.

Ned's organization elects as its president Bruce Niles, who is described as the "good cop" of gay activism, in comparison to Ned; while Bruce is cautious, polite, deferential, and closeted, Ned is vociferous, confrontational, incendiary, and supportive only of direct action. Tensions between the two are clear, though they must work together toward the promotion of their organization. Felix, meanwhile, reveals to Ned his belief that he is infected with the mysterious virus.

Although he continues to try to strengthen interactions with the mayor, Ned ruins his chances when his relentless and fiery personality appalls a representative sent by the mayor. Dr. Brookner gradually takes the role of activist herself, noting the epidemic's appearance in other countries around the world and even among heterosexual couples. 

Although she desperately asks for government funding for further research, she is denied; the rejection releases in her a passionate tirade against those who allow the persistence of an epidemic that is taking the lives of the homosexual individuals already marginalized by the government. In the meantime, Ned's conflict with Bruce comes to a head, and their organization's board of directors ultimately expels Ned from the group, believing his unstable vehemence to be a threat to the group's attempts at more calm-mannered diplomacy.

As Felix's condition worsens, he visits Ben Weeks in order to make his will and with a hope of reconciling Ben with his brother. Felix soon dies and Ned blames himself for Felix's death, lamenting that he did not fight hard enough to have his voice heard. The mortality rate from HIV/AIDS is shown to continue increasing as the stage fades to black.

Ticket prices for "THE NORMAL HEART" are:

Php1,500 orchestra center
Php1,000 orchestra side & loge
Php500 balcony. 

For ticket inquiries, please call Call 2150788 or 09175378313. Or call TicketWorld at 8919999.

Visit The Necessary Theatre on Facebook and follow @AAITNT on Twitter to check out other details of " THE NORMAL HEART ".

Award -winning play "The Normal Heart" all set to open on July 3

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AAI / The Necessary Theatre proudly announces the Asian premiere of "THE NORMAL HEART" - the 2011 Tony Award Winner for Best Revival of a Play about the early rise of the HIV-AIDS crisis in New York City in the early 1980s. During this period, a deadly epidemic was decimating North America’s gay population, killing people in the thousands, devastating an entire generation and changing the way we think about sex forever.

Written by playwright and activist Larry Kramer, "THE NORMAL HEART" is a largely autobiographical play that puts a human face to an issue often mired in numbers, facts and statistics as seen through the eyes of writer/activist Ned Weeks, the openly gay founder of a prominent HIV advocacy group. He watches in horror as friends and lovers fall prey to a mysterious virus targeting his community.

For its Manila run, "THE NORMAL HEART" is set to open on July 3 (Fri) 8pm with succeeding limited performances on July 4 (Sat) 3pm & 8pm; July 5 (Sun) 3pm & 8pm at the Carlos P. Romulo auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.

Bart Guingona

Topnotch theater actor Bart Guingona (who also directs the play) shall essay the role of the very intense activist Ned Weeks who is both difficult and charming.

Richard Cunanan shall essay the role of Ben Weeks, Ned’s brother, a lawyer, conservative, successful, tolerant of gays, loves his brother.

Topper Fabregas plays the role of Felix, a closeted, attractive, NY Times reporter.

TJ Trinidad 

TV personality TJ Trinidad will play the role of Bruce, a very handsome, charismatic, closeted All-American banker, elected to lead the organization.

Roselyn Perez is Emma, the fiercely independent doctor and researcher. Opinionated. A fighter.

Red Concepcion plays the role of Tommy, the funny, outrageous Southern boy who is all the way out of the closet.

Nor Domingo will play the role of Mickey, the Jewish victim with a sense of humor.

Jef Flores will take on multiple roles such as Craig, Grady and the Hiram Keebler City Hall representative.

"THE NORMAL HEART" is a call to arms, chronicling Ned’s personal crusade for justice amidst resistance, intolerance and ignorance on the part of government, family and friends.

A fierce indictment of a world unwilling to confront the AIDS epidemic, " THE NORMAL HEART " polarized the gay community when it was first performed at New Yorkís Public Theatre in 1985 where it earned a Dramatists Guild Marton Award, the City Lights Award, the Sarah Siddons Award for the best play of the year, and a nomination for an Olivier Award. 

In 2000, the Royal National Theatre named The Normal Heart one of the 100 greatest plays of the 20th century.

After a successful 1985 Off-Broadway production, the play was revived in Los Angeles and London and again Off-Broadway in 2004. 

In 2011 The Normal Heart received its Broadway debut, earning rave reviews and a number of prestigious awards: Tony Awards for Best Revival of a Play, Best Featured Actress (Ellen Barkin) and Best Featured Actor (John Benjamin Hickey); Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Revival of a Play, Outstanding Director of a Play and Outstanding Ensemble; the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Revival of a Play; and a New York Drama Critics Circle Special Citation.

The film adaptation of "THE NORMAL HEART" debuted on the HBO premium pay cable channel last May 25, 2014.

Amidst controversy, however, "THE NORMAL HEART" has endured, and today this document of recent history is as relevant and powerful as it ever was ñ a reminder that battles for justice, equality and dignity are not just things of the past.

Made possible by Taal Vista Hotel, the artistic team of "THE NORMAL HEART" is led by Bart Guingona directing, Baby Imperial and Coco Anne doing set design, Mark Philipp Espina doing projections, Don Taduran graphic design.

The production team is composed of Dodo Lim, producer; Mariko Yasuda, production manager; Ronah Rostata, stage manager.

"THE NORMAL HEART" is produced by The Necessary Theatre and Taal Vista Hotel with special arrangement from Samuel French Inc., New York, N.Y.

Ticket prices for "THE NORMAL HEART" are:

Php1,500 orchestra center
Php1,000 orchestra side & loge
Php500 balcony. 

For ticket inquiries, please call Call 2150788 or 09175378313. Or call TicketWorld at 8919999.

Visit The Necessary Theatre on Facebook and follow @AAITNT on Twitter to check out other details of " THE NORMAL HEART ".