Refreshing tearjerker depicts OFWs’ struggles

CEBU, Philippines - In this digital age, gadgets like cellular phones, tablets, and laptops have become a universal necessity. For the young and the old, these forms of innovations have become highly beneficial, whether for work or for entertainment. But for some though, these gadgets are not only necessities of life, but become life itself.

For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) most especially, these gadgets let them continue the life they may feel have been lost amid the challenges they face while working in foreign countries which, known to many, is far from the bed of roses most people believe it to be.

The contemporary play titled “Laptop” depicts exactly how important these gadgets are in the lives of striving OFWs. Written and directed by Msgr. Agustin “Ting” Ancajas of Our Lady of Sacred Heart Parish, “Laptop” has been screened a number of times over the past years, with some produced by Ancajas himself or by various organizations. In all instances, proceeds of the play go directly to the church.

While various stories of OFWs have been personified over and over again in a number of telenovelas and movies, the story of a relationship between three siblings who are all struggling for a better life as portrayed in “Laptop” is both refreshing and new as the magic of live theatre, plus the good production captures more emotions from a typical story like this.

The play is balanced with wit, humor and drama as the story revolves around the strong emotions of Manuel, the older brother who has worked in London for years to give his family back in the Philippines a good life, consequently giving up how he wanted to live his life. Despite having helped his younger siblings travel to London to land a job, Manuel’s bitterness has overcome him, straining his relationship with the people he has worked hard for.

“Laptop” is a tearjerker that not only those with OFW families can relate to but everyone who has their own story to tell on family relationships, sibling rivalry and personal ambitions.

The play will be restaged this October 12 at the Marcelo Fernan Press Center with a matinee show at 3 p.m. and a gala show at 8 p.m. Ticket prices are at P150 for the first show and P300 for the second. Proceeds will benefit the John Paul II home for priests.

Come November 19, “Laptop” will be staged again at the same venue for the annual homecoming of the Priests Alumni of the Diocesan seminaries of Cebu (PADS-Cebu). On Nov. 24, the Couples for Christ Cebu will be producing the play for all its members, most especially those who have kin living and working abroad. (FREEMAN)