Nick Joaquin’s MGA AMA, MGA ANAK caps Tanghalang Pilipino’s strong 27th Season of Social Dramas
Tanghalang Pilipino, the resident theater
company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines presents its final stage
offering for its 27th season, opening at the Tanghalang Aurelio
Tolentino (CCP Little Theater) this February 21st. “Mga Ama, Mga Anak,” written by National
Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin based on his short story “Three Generations”,
and translated into Pilipino from the original English “Fathers And Sons” by
National Artist Virgilio Almario and Jose Lacaba, Jr., is a poignant drama in
three acts. Featuring stage luminaries Spanky Manikan (Carias Monzon), Robert
Arevalo (Carias Monzon), television actress and host Jacquilou Blanco (Sofia
Monzon), noted young actress Cris Villongco (Bessie), and multi-awarded
singer-actress Celeste Legaspi, the story revolves around former town
illustrado and Caritela king Zacarias Monzon, his fall from power and wealth,
and his gnawing conflicts with his son and his family, amid dementia and
unresolved issues. Cruelty, hedonism, disloyalty, and suffering marred his past.
Now, so close to death, Carias still has the reins over his resentful son, his
confused grandson, and a benevolent martyr of a mistress, until they decide it
was time to cut loose and be responsible for what they are and what they will
be. Award-winning director and stage actor Joel Lamangan directs this
production for Tanghalang Pilipino.
TP exemplifies Filipino literary classics and
artistry, and focuses on social realities through artistic expression on stage.
Also leading the sterling cast is Tanghalang Pilipino’s Artistic Director and
premier actor Fernando ‘Nanding’ Josef who plays Celo Monzon, Carias’ son.
Noted actress Madeleine N. Nicolas (Nena), Peewee O’Hara (Mrs. Paulo), Banaue
Miclat Janssen (Nena) and Marco Viana (Chitong) are also in the cast, as well
as understudies from the TP Actors Company -- Lhorvie Anne Nuevo, Nicolo Magno,
Jonathan Tadioan and Doray Dayao. Production Design for the play is by Tuxqs
Rutaquio, Lighting Design is by Monino Duque, and Sound Design is by TJ Ramos.
“Mga Ama, Mga Anak” is on stage on Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 3:00pm and
8:00pm, and Sundays at 3:00pm, from February 21 to March 9, 2104, at the
Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theatre). Photography for this production is provided by Manila Avid Photographers and David Fabros, with make-up and hair styling for some of the artists by Geno Padilla.
Tickets are available at the CCP Box Office
at PhP800 / PhP400 (students with IDs), with a 20% discount for senior
citizens, government employees and PWDs. For inquiries, contact Tanghalang
Pilipino at (02) 832 3661 (Ms. Cherry Bong Edralin, Head of Marketing.)
