Gantimpala Theater revisits 'Ibong Adarna'
MANILA, Philippines - Gantimpala Theater’s Ibong Adarna, one of the Philippines most popular folk tales, flies high with a new script by Edgar Maranan, under the direction of Roobak Valle.
This play narrates the tale of the three brothers, Don Pedro, Don Diego and Don Juan, sent by their beloved mother Reyna Valeriana to capture the supernatural bird, whose magical songs serve as the only cure to Haring Fernando’s slow death.
The story of this production is based on Corrido at Buhay na Pinagdaanan nang Tatlong Principeng Magkakapatid na Anak ng Haring Fernando at nang Reina Valeriana sa Kahariang Berbania.
Tony Espejo, artistic director says, “What is interesting and exciting about Ed Maranan’s script is that it captures the whole essence of the original corrido. The audiences can expect new characters, kingdoms, and adventures by Don Juan. Also, director Roobak Valle makes it more visually and aurally appealing. He adds the music and dances of the Maranaos. These original choreographies are creations of National Artist for Dance, the late Ramon Obusan.”
The members of the Gantimpala Actors’ Company perform with Arron Villaflor (Don Juan), Noel Escondo (Don Diego), Arkin Da Silva (Don Pedro), Joey de Guzman (Ermitanyo), Billy Parjan (Haring Fernando), Pamela Hundana (Reyna Valeriana), Abel Napuran (Haring Salermo), Anna Deroca (Maria Blanca), Elrica Laguardia (Prinsesa Leonora), Jomelle Era (Prinsesa Juana) and Matthew Manalaysay (Ibong Adarna).
Assisting Valle and Maranan in bringing the corrido to life on stage are Andy Villareal (lights designer), Marciano Viri (choreographer), Charyl Chan de Guzman (production manager) and Joey David (stage manager).
Performances are slated on Oct. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, and 10, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., at AFP Theater in Quezon City; and Oct. 15, 16 and 17, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at SM Southmall Cinema 6, in Las Piñas City.
The National Parks Development Committee (NPDC) and Everbilena support Gantimpala Theater’s Ibong Adarna.
For bookings and tickets, call 899-5745, 896-3503, or visit www.gantimpalatheater.multiply.com or www.facebook.com/gantimpala.
