A deluxe movie experience awaits you at the newest cinema in the metro. Book your tickets at Ortigas Cinemas, GH Mall now!

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As Ortigas Malls continuously commits to provide top-notch services to mallgoers, GH Mall in San Juan has made movie-watching more enjoyable with the newly opened Ortigas Cinemas!

“The new Ortigas Cinemas offer high-quality viewing for all movie lovers. We want to bring a movie experience that is truly ‘Larger than Life,’” says Arch. Renee Bacani, Vice President and Head of Ortigas Malls.

Located on the 5th floor of GH Mall, moviegoers can delight in seeing their most anticipated films on the big screen. They can choose from three different cinemas to watch their favorite films with their friends and family.

High-end movie watching at CineLuxe

Film-watching meets luxury at CineLuxe, a living room cinema concept at GH Mall. With its premium couch seats and state-of-the-art technology, the cinema simulates the feeling of watching a movie in a lavish lounge. The seats provide a homey vibe, while still leaving moviegoers with wide legroom.

Besides comfy seats, CineLuxe uses laser projection for an excellent viewing experience that captures the vibrant details of any movie. It also features a surround sound system enhanced by Dolby Atmos.

A cozy watch at The Screening Room

For visitors looking for a comfortable and immersive viewing experience, The Screening Room is the cinema for them. Its fully reclining seats ensure that they can relax while enjoying the film, which is enhanced by Dolby Atmos surround sound.

Quality time at Cine-1

Whether it’s a family movie day or bonding with friends, Cine-1 is the perfect place to hang out. The wide number of cushioned seats guarantees that visitors and their loved ones can sit next to each other while taking in every detail of the movie at a comfortable distance.

All these cinemas are available for special block screenings. Moviegoers can enjoy a variety of snacks from Reel Bites and nearby shops with great food at GH Mall!

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GH Mall is your one-stop destination to experience “Larger Than Life” moments through all things lifestyle, entertainment, and dining. Be sure to step up your entertainment through an exceptional viewing experience at Ortigas Cinemas located at 5F GH Mall.

Book your tickets now at: https://ortigascinemas.com or call 0917 849 7542.

See you at the movies!

BAYAN KO – A Filipino Concert by Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe all set on November 26 – 27

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Come and celebrate the 76th anniversary of the Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe in a concert dubbed as BAYAN KO on November 26 (7 pm) and November 27 (3 pm and 7 pm) at the CCP Main Theater Lobby.

BAYAN KO is a depiction of the true identity of the Filipino people, showcasing the colorful and unique indigenous tribal and folk cultures with their customs and traditions, through music, song, and dance.

The artistic team of BAYAN KO is led by Ronnie Del Barrio (Director / Artistic Director of PBFDT); Mariano Santiago (Associate Artistic Director) and Jun Arandela (Musical Director).

Originally ‘barangay’ meant boats used by the Malays arriving on the shores of the Philippines during the pre-Spanish times. Later, the name came to connote the unit of government known as the ‘Pueblo’.

The word ‘barangay’, with its connotation of friendly association and harmonious living, was adopted by the Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe (PBFDT) to reflect its objectives of developing the physical, mental and social life of the individual through the cooperative effort of the members.

For the past seven decades, the PBFDT has traveled to the different stages of the world across Asia, Europe, and North America, providing a window to the complex and culturally rich history of the Philippines.

The troupe continues to research, preserve and showcase the diverse multicultural Philippine life, with its customs, traditions, various religions, depicting the gaiety and friendliness of its people through its performances of the native arts in their authentic form.

The folk-like and unaffected atmosphere of the performances have won the world over as they present the story of the Philippines through a panorama of songs, dances and music.

The troupe has received many citations and awards both nationally and internationally.

The most prestigious of these is the Philippine Presidential Medal of Merit Award ‘Patnubay ng Kalinangan sa Sayaw’ (1971)—a truly distinguished award of recognition for the important contribution the troupe is making to its home country.

In 2021, the PB proudly celebrated its 75th Anniversary, a testament to the pioneering leadership of the founding Artistic Director — the late Dr. Paz-Cielo A. Belmonte, awardee of the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining at Sayaw (1990), Philippine Centennial Awards (1999) and the Gintong BAI Awards (2005).

The PBFDT continues to excel as one of the leading dance companies in the Philippines, playing an important role in folk dance education, with most of its members being teachers and educators.

The group has had a significant impact on the development of the Filipino youth’s values in appreciation of their own culture, arts and traditions, particularly folk/traditional dance and music.

The PBFDT have traveled to Russia’s Red Square, climbed the Great Wall of China, visited the land down under in Australia, crossed the Berlin Wall and basked in the shadows of London’s Big Ben and Paris’ Eiffel Tower while criss-crossing all of Europe, danced on the stages of Las Vegas and Broadway and performed alongside Mickey Mouse in Disneyland.

Inspired and guided by the ‘Baranggay Spirit’ and discipline, members and alumni have organized folk dance groups in their respective schools/universities and communities worldwide, with the continued support of the mother company, previously under the leadership of Administrative & Creative Director, the late Mr. Eugenio C. Ticzon, or ‘Kuya Eugene’ as he is fondly remembered by most.

Indeed, the PB has expanded a thousand folds in its 76 years of existence — the longest running folk dance group in the country — and it will continue to expand to attain its mission of educating the Filipino youth towards appreciation, preservation and promotion of their Philippine cultural heritage.

Today, the dance troupe is under the new leadership of Administrative & Creative Director, Ronnie del Barrio, who joined the PB in 1982 as a Principal Dancer during his time at the PNC (now PNU). Ronnie’s career spans the past three decades, working as a creative director and choreographer, and a performer in London West End shows. Ronnie has worked closely with Philippine Embassies and communities across Europe as an arts consultant, collaborator and facilitator for cultural projects worldwide. Ronnie co-founded PB’s sister company, the Lahing Kayumanggi Dance Company (LahingKayumanggi.com), which has become widely recognized as Europe’s foremost Philippine cultural performance company.

Globe LIVE & 9Works Theatricals bring back Menken & Ahrenn’s ‘A Christmas Carol’

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HERO Foundation to benefit from Christmas show

The “spirits” of the season are brought to life once again as Globe LIVE and 9Works Theatricals brings Menken & Ahrenn’s A Christmas Carol back on stage for this holiday season. After its successful 2016 run, the whole family can once again create new traditions by reliving the Charles Dickens classic through impeccable production and classic music.

A Christmas Carol tells the story of a miserly man who finds happiness in sharing the joys of the season after being visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future.

Starting December 1, 2017, A Christmas Carol will premiere with some new cast members and a new production set that shouldn’t be missed! It will premiere on December 1, 2017 at the Globe Iconic Stage, BGC Amphitheater, Taguig, this time with Franco Laurel as the Ghost of Christmas Past. Reprising his role as the curmudgeon Scrooge is the seasoned Miguel Faustman.

Globe LIVE’s strengthened partnership with 9Works Theatrical in staging award winning Filipino productions helps Filipino talent shine even brighter on the family-friendly venue. Efforts such as these allows quality theater productions to reach a wider audience.

According to Joe Caliro, Globe Head for Creative Marketing and Multi-Media Services, and the musical’s executive producer, “A Christmas Carol’s second run is part of our effort to encourage our customers in creating new traditions with the whole family. We chose to stage A Christmas Carol again because it resonates with the colorful holiday celebrations here in the Philippines. It also teaches us the valuable lesson of giving, which is what the season is all about. With the successful it had last year, we wanted to offer it once again to eventually make it a Filipino Christmas tradition that everyone can enjoy.” 

Making this year’s production extra special is Globe LIVE’s support for the HERO Foundation through the “Wall of Miracles”. To be able to support more military orphans and send them to school, all of A Christmas Carol’s show will have the “Wall of Miracles” display that guests will be invited to decorate with Christmas ornaments that will be sold at the venue. All the proceeds from the sale of the ornaments alongside an additional donation from Globe LIVE will be turned over to the HERO Foundation. 

A non-stock, non-profit organization, HERO stands for Help, Educate and Rear Orphans. It has been providing educational stipends to military orphans. The financial support helps keep orphans in school as it covers much needed requirements such as school supplies, transportation, meals and even a portion of their tuition fee. 

Globe LIVE is the original live productions arm of the telco company that aims to offer customers more entertainment experiences that are out-of-the-box, online and offline. Globe LIVE continues to be a purveyor of world-class entertainment, and with its partnership with 9Works Theatrical, is once again providing a venue for local theater to be appreciated by Filipinos. 

To know more about the show schedules and buy tickets, visit http://glbe.co/acc-tix For tickets, contact Ticketworld at 891.9999.

Globe LIVE and 9Works Theatricals brings Menken & Ahrenn’s A Christmas Carol back on stage for this holiday season to create new traditions by reliving the Charles Dickens classic through impeccable production and classic music.

A Christmas Carol will be shown at the Globe Iconic Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater, Bonifacio Global City on December 7-9, 14-16, 21-22 & 26-27 at 8:00pm, December 10 & 17 (Sundays) and December 25 Christmas Show at 7:00pm. 

#GlobeLive9WTACC  #TheMiracleWithin

Visa Launches interactive play “Lukot-lukot, Bilog-bilog” and uses National Heroes to provide Financial Education to young Filipinos

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International digital payment provider Visa launched Lukot-lukot, Bilog-bilog (Crumpled, Round), an interactive play featuring national heroes, developed with Tanghalang Pilipino (TP), the resident drama company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) designed to educate and empower the Filipino youth to make informed financial decisions. 

This is the first program of its kind launched by Visa in the Philippines in support of the government’s National Strategy for Financial Inclusion spearheaded by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Lukot-lukot, Bilog-bilog will showcase common scenarios faced by a Filipina senior high school student protagonist named Gwyneth who is challenged to make decisions between her needs and wants. Native Filipino heroes such as Jose Rizal and Apolinario Mabini will also ‘come alive’ from the crumpled bills and rounded coins to help the main character make wise decisions.

Starting October, the show will be performed in close to 10 different schools to make financial literacy education more accessible to the students. This program is aligned with the government’s National Strategy for Financial Inclusion, in particular, the pillar on financial education and consumer protection. 

The launch also included a panel discussion on the importance of financial literacy in the Philippines, including panelists such as Dan Wolbert, Visa Philippines Head of Sales, Pia Roman-Tayug, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Head of Inclusive Finance Advocacy, Nanding Josef, Tanghalang Pilipino Artistic Director, and Patricia Feria-Lim, Teach for the Philippines Chief Strategy Officer.

“At Visa, we strongly believe in the importance of financial literacy and it is a key area of focus as part of our corporate social responsibility efforts. Hence, with the support of BSP, we created this financial literacy program and interactive play through Lukot-lukot, Bilog-bilog where the Filipino youth can relate to various scenarios on making money management decisions. With millennials forming a large population in the Philippines, we believe it is crucial to spread the knowledge of how to manage their money at a young age, and to highlight the importance of making smart monetary decisions,” said Stuart Tomlinson, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines and Guam. 

“We believe that financial education should be introduced to learners early on, especially key concepts including budgeting, investing, and setting financial goals. Innovative approach such as blending education and art are most welcome and can help the existing programs of the government. This is a tangible support from the private sector of the objectives of the NSFI, particularly the pillars on financial education and consumer protection,” says Pia. 

Nanding Josef, Tanghalang Pilipino Artistic Director

“The informative and interactive performances will stimulate creativity and challenge its audience on their perception of money,” says Nanding Josef, Tanghalang Pilipino Artistic Director. 

With the creative direction of TP, the play will spark critical thinking in these youths on the value of money. “By presenting economic concepts in realistic and entertaining situations, we hope that audiences will find it easier to apply their learnings in their daily lives,” added Nanding. 

Visa’s financial literacy initiative also aims to reach out to students under Teach for the Philippines, a program Visa has been actively involved with previously. 

"Experiential learning has been proven to be an effective method for encouraging mastery and understanding. At Teach for the Philippines, we believe that programs which incorporate financial literacy and theater arts in academics develop the critical life skills of our learners. We look forward to a continued partnership with Visa Philippines, BSP, and Tanghalang Pilipino to bring our learners closer to their full potential and enable them to contribute meaningfully to nation building," said Patricia. 

“We want to secure the future of the Filipino youth and are committed to forging the path to financial literacy and inclusion. We envision the program to reach more students throughout the country in the coming years,” added Stu.

For more updates and information, visit www.visa.com.ph , http://visaapnews.asia/ and @VisaNews

Globe officially moves to change the PH entertainment landscape with an extensive lineup of productions

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Advocates legitimate content consumption with #PlayItRight

In its commitment to elevating its customers’ entertainment experience, leading mobile brand Globe Telecom officially announces its move to change the entertainment landscape through the launch of its extensive lineup of productions that customers can participate in, enjoy, immerse, and express themselves in.

Albert de Larrazabal

“We wanted to give our customers more ways to enjoy life, so we ventured into staging entertainment productions that goes beyond the smartphone screen with the establishment of Globe LIVE and Globe Studios” shares Globe Chief Commercial Officer Albert de Larrazabal. 

“Globe is all about creating experiences, and we are simply taking the experience further by going beyond the virtual and giving our customers the opportunity to experience entertainment wherever they are, whether in film, digital or in real life. We intend to elevate the quality of entertainment in the country. There’s a boundless supply of great talent in the Philippines, and with it potentially comes great movies, theater, and other exciting content to enjoy” adds de Larrazabal.

Given these original content, the company underscores the importance of the hard work that goes behind the scenes and how content piracy affects the livelihood of men and women in the entertainment industry. Hence the company introduced its advocacy #PlayItRight. With all this content and entertainment productions Globe has in line comes the responsibility of educating its customers of the hard work that goes behind the scenes. Their hard work deserves all the respect, and the campaign aims to shed light on real life stories of people behind the entertainment we consume, in the hopes of encouraging customers to enjoy content from legitimate sources.

This year, Globe is pulling out all the stops with four musical productions under its belt. Its musical run already began with the adaptation of Disney’s Newsies, which started last July 7, 2016 at the Globe ICONIC Store and will run on all weekends of July. 

In August and September, Globe is co-producing the international tours of of the award-winning titles West Side Story from August 10 to 27 and the West End production of The Sound of Music from September 27 to October 15 both at The Theater at Solaire. Capping off 2017 will be the restaging of Menken & Ahren’s A Christmas Carol in December.

Apart from live productions, Globe has also ventured into producing original video series and films through Globe Studios. In recognition of the local independent film scene, Globe Studios launched the first-ever online film fest the Globe Independent Film Festival to fuel creativity among aspiring local filmmakers. Globe has also collaborated with HOOQ to bring the most-awaited, star-studded series, On The Job (OTJ), a spin-off from the original On The Job blockbuster hit by Erik Matti.

#PlayItRight will soon play a major role in Philippine cinema with the company supporting the upcoming Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, a nationwide week-long celebration organized by the Office of the President’s Film Development Council, where all movie theaters will exclusively screen Filipino films in line with the Buwan ng Wika.

Audiophiles and concert goers are also in for a treat as Globe brings top global music acts The Chainsmokers in September, and the first solo act of Harry Styles in May of 2018. This comes on the heels of big names that Globe brought to the country namely Madonna in 2016, and the sold-out performance of Coldplay in 2017.

Gamers are likewise treated to hours of enjoyment with highly competitive mobile games Mobile Legends, Clash of Clans, and Clash Royale, and the addictive yet physically engaging Pokemon GO.

In line with #PlayItRight, customers can access all the entertainment they crave with the new GoWATCH, which allots a separate data allocation exclusively for videos, which can be used for popular and legitimate streaming platforms YouTube, Netflix, Tribe, HOOQ, NBA, Cartoon Network, and Disney Channel Apps.

Customers may avail of GoWATCH29 for 2GB of video streaming data for as low as P29, valid for one day as an add-on to any GoSURF promo starting with GoSURF50.

For more information about the company’s entertainment lineup, visit the website at http://www.globe.com.ph/. Tickets are available now at https://www.ticketworld.com.ph. 

For more information on GoWATCH, visit the website at http://www.globe.com.ph/help/gowatch, call the Globe hotline at 730-1010, or visit any Globe Store.

Maynila Sa Mga Kuko Ng Liwanag, The Musical audition set!

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Grand Leisure Corporation, in cooperation with Fullhouse Asia Production Studios, announce the audition for Maynila sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag, the Musical on June 16, Friday, 2pm to 7pm., happening at the Architectural Center Club, 2060 Palma St., corner Rockwell Drive, Makati City.

The musical serves as tribute to the late National Artist for Film, Lino Brocka.

Maynila Sa Mga Kuko ng LIwanag the musical, highlights the life of Julio Madiaga, an innocent provinciano who wandered to Manila fueled by his romantic quest, to find and rescue his beloved, Ligaya Paraiso.

The musical version's stage director is Joel Lamangan. Libretto by Jose Victor Torres & Em Mendez. Musical Director is Von De Guzmán, Douglas Nierras is the choreographer & Jun Pablo for Production Design.

For those who will audition on June 16, they must prepare one song and one dance number.

For queries, & more information SMS/call 09179046778 (Chriz) and 09175543652 (Leslie).

Young Hya Tara with Lea Salonga's "Disney Princess: I Dare to Dream"

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Watch out for "Disney Princess: I Dare to Dream", concert on March 22, 2017 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena to see little princesses dream and wishes do come true.

Globe Live presents the musical celebration of Disney Princess movies with the competition of six young girls vying for a chance to be featured in Disney's online video series: Disney Princess: I Dare to Dream. 

Celebrity coach Lea Salonga, is the main performance of the concert with Aicelle Santos, Christian Bautista, Erik Santos, Janina Vela, Julie Anne San Jose, KC Concepcion, Morissette, Sam Concepcion and Tippy Dos Santos.

Sixteen years old, Hya Tara Leonardo, more known as Hya, is one of the six contestants. She is the breadwinner of her family. She stopped schooling to financially support her grandmother and special-needs brother. To do that, she sings and dances at clubs, private parties, weddings and such to make ends meet. Her mother abandoned them while her father passed away. She was the day's winner in the Tawag Ng Tanghalan Kids competition last February 24, 2016.

Hya Tara Leonardo

"I want to be rich like people who have iPhones," she said. Hya wants to be a Broadway actress and singer, just like her idol Lea Salonga. She's always dreamt of performing in front of a large audience. On March 22nd, one of her dreams will come true.

Let's see the magical performances of these young dreamers with the help of various mentors headed by Disney legend Lea Salonga, theater actress Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, social educator Efren Penaflorenda, veterinarian Dr. Nielsen Donato, animator Tito Romero, chef Jessie Sincioco, and YouTuber and host Charisma Star. 

The other five contestants dream to be featured in Disney's online video series are Sirach Catipay, Stephanie Jordan, Jaden Narvios, Liana San Diego, and Alexi Tan. 

Watch and enjoy "Disney Princess: I Dare To Dream Concert" to see the magical adventures and their wishes and dreams do come true. 

Get 50% discount on every "Disney Princess: I Dare To Dream Concert" tickets by simply using the Promo Code = Pbnet143 via https://smtickets.com/events/view/5485 or over-the-counter.

The maximum single transaction using the Promo Code is buying six (6) tickets.

The Promo Code is available starting today until March 22, 2017, courtesy of the partnership between Globe Telecom and the Philippine Bloggers Network (PBNet).

#idaretodream #createbigdreams

#pbnetworkph #pbnet #GlobeTelecom 

TP presents “Pangarap sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw” by William Shakespeare

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TANGHALANG PILIPINO (TP) presents  William Shakespeare's “Pangarap sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw” traslated by Rolando Tinio and will be on September 30 to October 16, 2016

William Shakespeare’s PANGARAP SA ISANG GABI NG GITNANG TAG-ARAW (Midsummer Night’s Dream) in a Reimagined, Provocative Staging 

Carlos Siguion-Reyna, director of TP production “Walang Sugat” and known for his films “Azucena,” “Kahapong May Dalawang Bata,” and “Ang Lalaki sa Buhay ni Selya,” brings his thought-provoking creative interpretation of Shakespeare’s Pangarap Sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw (Midsummer Night’s Dream) translated by national artist Rolando Tinio for a limited three-weekend run from September 30 to October 16, 2016.

Presented by Tanghalang Pilipino, the company behind “Mabining Mandirigma,” “Zsazsa Zaturnah,” and “Himala The Musical,” the production’s strong cast will be led by Audie Gemora, Liesl Batucan, Teroy Guzman, Skyzx Labastilla, Richard Cunanan, Kristofer Kliatchko, Rafa Siguion-Reyna and Jackie Lou Blanco, with the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors’ Company.

We experience a juxtaposition of two worlds—Athens, the home of the powers-that-be, all rigid and structured vis-à-vis the home of the enchanting creatures, the forest, a place where unbridled passions run free. The double entendre of Shakespeare's comedies lends itself to bouts of mild sexual humor. “The rich text from both Shakespeare and Tinio has allowed us to use a mishmash of English and Tagalog – using these two languages to reflect the conflict between order that has gone fascist and the idea of passion gone chaotic,” says Siguion-Reyna. There is a study of contrasts: ‘fakery vs. authenticity,’ ‘reason and sanity vs. emotional lunacy,’ and ‘ego vs. evil’ among the revolving theme of the play. Siguion-Reyna shares, “We’re going with that kind of schizophrenia and it’s coming out organically.”

THEME and MOOD

“Pangarap sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw is not a whimsical story for me. It’s not about harmless fairies having fun, nor a Victorian-setting / Peter Pan type of story. There are lots of dark elements in this play. We went for thematic manifestations and the suggestion of fascism and passion instead of constricting the play to a certain period. In fact, I even thought about setting it in a mental hospital, a 19th century Spanish precolonial period, traditional Philippine mythology, or a totalitarian state – but that was reducing the play. ,” shares Siguion-Reyna.

SETTING

Siguion-Reyna continues, “We are keeping the woods – its sense of wonder and magic in the woods’ acts.” The foggy woods bring that certain kind of lunacy distinctly found in Midsummer’s Night’s Dream and its otherworldness. “This allows the audience to analyze the play – which is abstract enough and open to interpretation. They can read the circumstance that’s relevant to themselves – politically or from another point of history.” See what the woods are in your life; what the court is in your own life. With costumes not period specific, this play crosses time and culture. It’s a think piece that allows your imagination to run wild. “It’s very liberating.”

CHARACTERS

Theseus is the force of order in the first place, bringing that cold, sterile feeling. Puck and Oberon will do anything to enforce certain magic. Free-spirited Puck is an assemblance of the courtlife. In the woods, the characters are unpredictable in what they will do.

CAST 

“I went into rehearsals as if the two great playwrights, Shakespeare and Tinio, were in the room with me. I had so much fun exploring this play with the cast and I’m enjoying the fact that I can’t fully grasp the entirety of the play. We’re finding it out together. Here, we are exploring the roles of men and women, and sexual and gender politics, among others. I’m working with a great cast,” Siguion-Reyna fondly shares.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Between the horror and the comedy, the mix results in to a provocative staging where you can find yourself in your very own “woods,” a place filled with uncertainty, magic and wonder - anything can happen there; and when you come out of the woods, how does it change you?

Pangarap sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw opens on September 30, 2016, 630pm at the Tanghalang “Watch Pangarap and experience virtual love, rejection, and emotional transformation,” invites TP artistic director Nanding Josef. 

Pangarap sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw, an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s classic, A Midsummer Night’s Dream from Rolando Tinio’s Filipino translation, follows one of Shakespeare’s most controversial works. 

Notable members of the Artistic Staff are: Rody Vera (Dramaturg), Toym Imao (Set Designer), John Batalla (Lights Designer), TJ Ramos (Sound Designer), and James Reyes (Costume Designer). 

Pangarap sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw runs at the Cultural Center of the Philippines on these dates and times: 

September 30, 2016 (Friday) – 8PM  

October 1, 2016 (Saturday) – 3PM & 8PM 

October 2, 2016 (Sunday) – 3PM 

October 7, 2016 (Friday) – 8PM 

October 8, 2016 (Saturday) – 3PM & 8PM 

October 9, 2016 (Sunday) – 3PM 

October 14, 2016 (Friday) – 8PM 

October 15, 2016 (Saturday) – 3PM & 8PM 

October 16, 2016 (Sunday) – 3PM 

For more information, contact Tanghalang Pilipino Foundation, Inc. at (02) 832-1125 loc. 1620/1621| Direct line: (02) 822 6920 |Lorelei Celestino: (02) 915 607 2275 

Short Film Festival propels students to great achievements

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True to its commitment of being the steward of young film-makers towards success in the local motion picture industry, Black Barong Film Festival (BBFF) showcased the best short films at The BBFF: Invitationals 2016.

In partnership with SineReel X slated last April 20, 21 and 22 at the Thomas Aquinas Research Center Auditorium of the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Manila, the event marked the festival’s first extended run since its inception in 2009.

“We received an overwhelming response from students in different colleges and universities, and because there were many excellent entries, this year’s three-day festival aimed to provide the avenue for young talents to celebrate their achievements and compel them towards future excellence,” said Executive Director Nico Hernandez.

More than creating a platform to exhibit student films, Hernandez added that BBFF believes that peer recognition is essential for the youth to gain confidence in their chosen craft. 

With a mission to support, promote and fuel the passion of the new breed of film-makers, the festival premiered works by students of San Sebastian College Recoletos-Manila, University of the East (UE), Far Eastern University (FEU) and the University of Santo Tomas (UST). 

“We started with less than 10 entries, and we’ve grown to about 60 short films on average each year. The selection of finalists is a critical process. We invited the schools in the University Belt which were able to produce excellent and winning films in the past.”

Sharing the vision of producing and presenting top quality Filipino movies, ABS-CBN Star Cinema rallied their industry veterans to take part as the festival’s 2016 judging panel. Esteemed jurors included Star Cinema’s Creative Manager John Paul Abellera, Head of Production Marizel Samson Martinez and Creative Supervisor and Screenwriter Roumella Nina Monge, internationally acclaimed writer-director Antoinette Jadaone, and award winning cinematographer for film and television Herman Claravall.

“To encourage the students to pursue a career in film making, this time around, the winners will have intership opportunities with Star Cinema. We are happy and grateful for this partnership because with their support, they will also hone and refine the skills of these fresh talents,” Hernandez stated.

Among the 41 finalists featured, the short films produced by FEU garnered the most awards.

Top rank was given to Keep Right, collecting awards for Best Picture, Best Screenplay, Best Production Design and Best Musical Score. The film also earned Best Direction for neophyte director Yesh Burce, and Best Actress for Divine Aucina. The Special Jury Prize, considered as the closest contender for Best Picture, was awarded to the short film Pitik-Bulag. 

Other films of note are Kalabit for Best Sound Editing, Dulog for Best Trailer, and Buffering - with a moving performance by Paulo Alinario, received the Best Actor Award. Excellence in visual execution was given to UST’s Pag-Uwi, which collected Best Cinematography and Best Editting.

Inspiring the creativity of the aspiring youth, winners at The BBFF: Invitationals 2016 received a PHP 50,000.00 film grant from Open Reel Film Gears and, a chance at valuable mentorships and learning from the best professional film-makers in the country. 

“From this point on, we not only recognize the best short films, we also take part in shaping the future of these students. It is our genuine honor to recognize the achievements of the students and we’re very excited for a bigger and better Black Barong next year. ” 

For more information and updates, find the Black Barong Film Festival on Facebook or follow @Black Barong on Twitter.

Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group Looking for new “Miss Saigon” cast

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Miss Saigon put Filipino talent on the map and showed the world how good Pinoy performers are.

Now, years after the first batch of Filipino talent made its mark in London’s West End—and all over the world—a new group of Filipino talent is out to replicate that success when the Miss Saigon company returns to the country to seek out local artists to join the musical.

Lea Salonga, who was the musical’s first Kim (and who went on to great success on Broadway and elsewhere in the theater world) says that if there’s anything Miss Saigon has done, it’s show to the world that the Filipino artist is one that is reliable, dependable, and able to interpret musical theater with the best of them.

“We are artistically right up there, and it makes me proud when any one of us gets that moment in the sun on the international stage. To see many of my friends in the West End and on Broadway makes my heart feel full,” says Lea, who went on to win major awards for her performance.

Singer and stage actress Isay Alvarez played the original Gigi to Lea’s Kim. She too, is grateful that Miss Saigonpaved the way for Pinoy artists to be recognized all over the world.

Being in the musical was both fun and challenging, says Isay. One of the hardest things was learning to work with the sheet music.

“Our counterparts read notes. They were sight readers. But the Pinoys were ingenious,” laughs Isay. “We brought our trusted tape recorders. In terms of adjustments (that we had to make), I’d say it was understanding the ways of our co-actors and production staff. Coming from a different culture was one thing, but they were understanding and Miss Saigon was a very mixed cast anyway.”

The auditions were also fun, but nerve-wracking. It was the first big test they all had to face.

“I was quite nervous, but during that time I was young and eager and my dreams were bursting out of my pores,” recalls Isay. “And to have the Cameron Mackintosh group in the audience was very exciting. They were very professional, and the English are proper anyway, and not intimidating at all. I should say they were very accommodating and I think they were really impressed that they found a mine of talents. They went to many cities and realized that Manila has what they need.” 

However, Carla Guevara-Laforteza says that passing the auditions was just the beginning.

“When we passed, we became scholars of the ‘Saigon School’ wherein we were pre-taught the songs and the choreography of the show. From there, we were handpicked on who would be assigned to go to what production (UK, Australia, Germany, and so on). Those chosen for Germany were required to learn the show in German.”

Of course, adjusting to a whole new lifestyle was part of the deal.

Lea had to give up her ‘sheltered’ life to be able to do the things she did there. “The toughest adjustment was just living a less-than-sheltered life. In Manila, all I had to worry about was school and whatever work I happened to be doing. Now, I had to learn how to take public transportation, and write checks for the monthly utilities, in addition to study my music, dialogue, and figure out how to do kissing scenes with a romantic opposite for the first time. 

Now, #TeamMissSaigon is back and looking for new talent. Auditions are presently ongoing with Atlantis Productions helping to coordinate the search.

Lea, Isay, Carla and other Miss Saigon alumni have words of encouragement and advice for those considering trying out for the musical.

The first thing, says Pinky Amador, is to realize that sure, it’s fun and it’s an honor to be chosen from among so many artists, but it’s also all about hard work and dedication from the moment one sets foot on the audition stage.

Her advice is to keep in mind that it just isn’t the best singers who make it.

“I have always maintained that in the end, the choices aren't just all about the best voices. They are about the best WORKERS. Remember, you will be working far away from home and facing many personal and artistic challenges. So they need to know that they can trust you. Be professional in every way. Show them they can invest you. Look at everyone they chose: they’re all people with high standards, all exacting and all with impeccable work ethic.”

As always, Lea’s advice is to be professional, even when one is just auditioning.

“First and foremost, show up prepared. Second, show up BEFORE your appointed time. Third, have fun! Enjoy the experience for what it’s worth. You may or may not get the job, but at least you can say you sang for some of the best creative forces in the world. That’s a pretty huge deal in and of itself.”

"Miss Saigon,” a sung-through musical, features music by "Les Misérables" collaborators Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil, and lyrics by Boublil and "Closer Than Ever's" Richard Maltby, Jr. with additional lyrics by Michael Mahler, based on Giacomo Puccini's popular opera "Madame Butterfly.”

For more information contact (0995) 534-8371 or like the MISS SAIGON 2016 AUDITIONS page on Facebook.

Workshop on Vocal Production for Musical Theater at the CCP

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An intensive Workshop on Vocal Production and Interpretation for Live Stage Performance for musical theater actors will be held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines on April 26-May 1, 2016. The Workshop will be conducted by musical director, vocal coach, composer, pianist and educator from New York Carmela Sinco. The Workshop will be limited to only 15 participants.

The Workshop module will be conducted in the manner of a masterclass and will focus on each of the particular abilities of the 15 individual participants who will receive intensive training on vocal production and interpretation for live stage performance. The participants may choose to focus on songs sung in musicals, operas, and/or art songs. The Workshop will end with a Culminating Program on May 1, 2016.

Ms. Sinco has a Master of Arts in Music Theory and Composition (New York University), a Bachelor of Arts in Piano Performance (University of Hawaii) and years of private studies with composers and pianists (solo and collaborative) in New York City, Hawaii and Europe. Ms. Sinco has worked in various musical theater and operatic productions, cabaret and vocal concerts in Europe, Asia and in the USA. As a composer, her credits include having composed and produced the music for documentary film and television series aired on PBS, CUNY TV, various local stations and film festivals in the USA and abroad. She has also composed works on commission by musicians of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Her one-act opera, Raya and Sag-In, with music, story and libretto by Ms. Sinco, had its world premiere production in NYC in 2009. As an educator, Ms. Sinco has worked with students of all levels and ages privately, semi-privately and in classes throughout the tri-state area, addressing her students’ goals and aspirations be they professional or simply for enjoyment and fun.

As a pianist, her performances have taken her around the US and across borders into Europe, Asia and Africa playing in music festivals and other concerts and events. As a music director, band leader, orchestrator, music arranger and keyboardist, she has worked with modern music production companies and off-Broadway productions in New York City. Experiencing New York City and all its music activity, she has also been keyboardist and vocalist for various independent original rock and funk bands performing in the New York City and New Jersey club scenes.

She has run her vocal workshop for live stage performance twice in Manila, first during the New York-Manila Musical Theater Workshop organized by the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2014 and again for Tanghalang Pilipino in 2015, targeting advanced and professional level performers. Most recently she ran a version of the same workshop for vocalists in Kampala, Uganda in December 2015 where she has also been developing music educational systems addressing different levels and cultural influences for the last two years. Recently she has also served as a consultant for a NYC education company, helping them develop a music academy curriculum in Vietnam.

Ms. Sinco is composing the music for her second opera on commission, with a world premiere performance scheduled for February 2017 in Manila, Philippines.

Acceptance to the Workshop will be based on the merit of submitted applications. Deadline for submission of applications is on April 12, 2016. For fees and other information, please contact the CCP Artist Training Division at 832-1125 loc. 1604/1605 or email (ccp.artist.training@gmail.com).

ALMOST, MAINE is a mythical place, owing no real geographic reference except to the human heart.

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It is cold bleak landscapes, difficult to live in, and even harder to endure, but somehow the people that inhabit this place still manage to fill it with warmth, love, friendship and hope. It is their emotional journey that makes this place, located in the loneliest and most solitary corners of our hearts, still a place worth living.

Written by John Cariani, ALMOST, MAINE is one of those endearing plays that captures your imagination almost immediately, and never let’s go. With 19 characters played by a cast of only four people, it is most definitely an actor's piece. Two men and two women playing a host of complex characters is a daunting task indeed, and after several rounds of auditions and readings, the actors were finally found.

In the end, Reb Atadero (The Graduate, The Horse And His Boy) Caisa Borromeo (The Secret Garden, Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady), Natalie Everett (The Secret Garden, The Game's Afoot) and Jamie Wilson (Run For Your Wife, The Bridges of Madison County) were chosen to take up the acting chores.

All veterans of Repertory Philippines, the excitement at being cast in ALMOST, MAINE quickly overshadowed the hard work that would soon follow.

In the director's chair, another Rep veteran takes the helm. Always an artist of incredible vision, Bart Guingona (4000 Miles, The Normal Heart) has never been one to do a play as it is written, and has put his own twists and turns on this wonderful material. 

With stage design by Baby Imperial and Coco Anne, lighting by John Batalla, sound design by Jethro Joaquin and costumes by Marta Lovina, ALMOST, MAINE promises to be a strong offering in Repertory Philippines' 2016 season. ALMOST, MAINE opens at the Onstage Theater in Greenbelt One, Makati on February 19th.

Open Call Auditions in Manila for Miss Saigon

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Cameron Mackintosh announces Open Call Auditions in Manila for various upcoming global productions of Miss Saigon, the record breaking production that is taking London by storm and opens on Broadway in 2017. Auditions will be represented and facilitated in Manila by Bobby Garcia and Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group (ATEG) and held at the Opera Haus (3657 Bautista St., Makati City), in March. 

“Miss Saigon’s producing and creative team will be flying in from London to hold auditions for various upcoming global productions of the hit musical. I look forward to working with them in discovering a new generation of Filipino talent to shine on the international stage in Miss Saigon the way Lea Salonga, Joanna Ampil, JonJon Briones and Rachelle Ann Go, among many others, have in the past.” says Garcia.,who was also an Associate Director for Miss Saigon.

“We are searching for Kim, The Engineer, Thuy, Gigi and all Asian Roles in the musical. From leads to ensemble, from singers to acrobatic dancers, we encourage performers throughout the Asian region to come to Manila and audition for Miss Saigon.” added Garcia.

Trevor Jackson, Head of Casting for Cameron Mackintosh, said "Since casting for Miss Saigon began in the mid 1980's the Philippines has been integral to the show as a place to find exceptional Asian performers of World Class ability. Our teams have been returning regularly ever since. Filipino artists are the heart and soul of this show.”

"Miss Saigon,” a sung-through musical, features music by "Les Misérables" collaborators Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil, and lyrics by Boublil and "Closer Than Ever's" Richard Maltby, Jr. with additional lyrics by Michael Mahler, based on Giacomo Puccini's popular opera "Madame Butterfly.”

Audition requirements will be announced soon.

For more information contact (0995) 534-8371 or like the MISS SAIGON 2016 AUDITIONS page on Facebook.

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.