Applause: A Musicale Retrospect set for Aug. 4

Manila, Philippines - The thanksgiving concert, Applause: A Musicale Retrospect, showcases excerpts from Prof. Fides Cuyugan Asensio’s (photo) original libretto/lyrics.  The concerted work of the Music Theater Foundation Philippines and the University of the Philippines’ College of Music highlights the performing and creative talents/artists and the stage production team who put life to Prof. Fides’ original libretto/lyrics.  For the professor, it is her gesture of thanking the artists, supporters and friends who have been supporting her through the years.

“We look forward to your patronage and generosity to make this show possible to enable us to continue our ongoing scholarship program/s to students and scholars in the field of arts, music and music theater. Your valued and continuous support has always revitalized the cultural tradition of the Philippine theater and has promoted the cultural heritage of the Filipino people.”

The excerpts are taken from the following musical: Amy (work in progress); Larawan at Kababaihan: Mukha at Maskara, music by Dr. Lucrecia Kasilag; Mayo-Bisperas ng Liwanag (inspired from Mayday Eve of Nick Joaquin and music by Rey Paguio);  Spoliarium, an opera on the life of Juan Luna, music by Ryan Cayabyab; Why Flowers Bloom in May, music by  Dr. Kasilag;  Song of Joseph, a musical on the life, love and death of St. Joseph, music by Raymond Roldan;  and La Loba Negra, music by Francisco Feliciano.

The show is slated on Aug. 4, 3 p.m. and on  Aug. 5, 7 p.m. at the Abelardo Hall, UP College of Music.