'Walang Sugat' brought to life for Ateneo's 150th year

MANILA, Philippines - This February, love blossoms in the midst of war in the Ateneo de Manila University’s production of Walang Sugat, a sarsuwela by Severino Reyes and Fulgencio Tolentino. This will be the Ateneo’s first major sarsuwela and the culmination of the school’s three-year Sesquicentennial Celebration.

Regarded as Severino Reyes’ masterpiece, Walang Sugat broadly underscores the injustice of Spanish rule even as it dances around the cruel fate of the young lovers Tenyong and Julia with humor and song. Set in the final leg of the Philippine Revolution, Tenyong is forced to leave behind his childhood sweetheart Julia to join the Katipunan. Meanwhile, Julia’s mother pressures her into marrying the wealthy Miguel instead. With no word from Tenyong as the battle prolongs, Julia gives in, but her wedding is interrupted by the fatally wounded Tenyong, who returns with a dying wish.

The production is directed by Ricardo Abad, under the musical direction of Josefino Tolledo. Jonjon Villareal handles lights design while Dexter Santos choreographs. Set and costumes will be designed by National Artist Salvador Bernal.

Part of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Ateneo de Manila University’s program 500@150, which aims to raise money for 500 scholarships this year, and to Agenda for Hope.

The show runs from Feb. 24 to 28, 2010 at the Henry Lee Irwin Theater, Ateneo de Manila University.

(For ticket inquiries and reservation, contact Ia Solis at 0921-2585000.)