I almost didn't go since I was a bit tired last night and I still have to pack for my trip today. But since I wouldn't have the chance to catch the play anymore cause they're closing this weekend, I forced myself to get up and go and was I glad I did. The turn out was pretty impressive. It was Thursday night and the theatre was packed. I just wish that local productions from Tanghalan Pilipino in Manila is supported the same way by Filipinos.
The set was sparse with only a few corrugated metals and a brick wall to serve as a back drop. The actors were also dressed simply down to the bare minimums. Their performance though is another matter. With only 6 actors and a one-man sound machine, they were able to transport the audience to Manor Farm. They were very effective and their transition from one animal to another is quick and really impressive. I particularly liked the scene where Mollie, played by Denise Tan turns into a vulture.
While the show, infused with local and modern flavors, was fun, I did feel a bit disconcerted and depressed. It's simple message of absolute power corrupts rings so true in my beloved country. I hate to admit it but I had such high hopes for GMA when she first came into power. Fast forward to 9 years later and the country is in a much sorry state. How timely is that the previous night, I was reading the Wallace report shared by some of the tweeties that I follow. There are a couple of scenes in the play where the pig and a news report tell the inhabitants of the farm of the improvements all over. The truth of the matter is that they are left in a similar state from the previous regime. Exactly what the Filipinos have been fed through the palace's press releases. Three more days and it's the elections. I just wish that most of my countrymen could have seen this production...not that we need any more wake up call.
No comments:
Post a Comment