As we step into 2024, the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) embraces its mission with renewed vigor, presenting a bold and compelling collection of new theater performances. Under the banner of “CONTROL + SHIFT: Changing Narratives,” PETA sets out to redefine stories, challenge assumptions, and transform toxic narratives, ultimately reclaiming and reshaping the stories of the Filipino people.

The Visionaries Behind the Revolution

PETA artists, in collaboration with creative partners and collaborators, have passionately crafted eight new works, blending devised performances with the re-staging of the acclaimed “KUMPRONTASYON.” This groundbreaking collection will grace the stage at the PETA Theater Center from January 12-14 and 19-21, 2024.

CONTROL + SHIFT : Changing Narratives features eight new works, devised performances, and the re-staging of KUMPRONTASYON at the PETA Theater Center from January 12-14, 19-21, 2024.

Unveiling the Narrative Alchemy

Momsilogues: A Savory Journey of Life and Love

Zoe Damag, Julia Enriquez, Pia Viola, and Gold Villar-Lim’s “Momsilogues,” directed by Gold Villar-Lim.

Directed by Gold Villar-Lim, “Momsilogues” takes center stage, unraveling the intricate tales of single mom foodie vloggers. In this interactive vlog about tapsilog, the audience is invited on a savory journey delving into the realms of career, love, and motherhood.

Ang Mga Halimaw sa Compound Z: Rethinking Monster Myths

Directed by Norbs Portales, Sabrina Basillo’s “Ang Mga Halimaw sa Compound Z” weaves a gripping narrative. A journalist interviews recovering “halimaw” as they reintegrate into society, uncovering shocking revelations that could reshape humanity’s destiny. This play explores the construction of monster myths and their impact on young Filipinos.

Albularyo: A Movement Journey into Folk Healing

Direction, concept, and choreography by Carlon Matobato, dramaturgy by Ian Segarra

Carlon Matobato’s creation, “Albularyo,” is a mesmerizing movement performance delving into the world of Filipino folk healing. It aims to heal not only the ills of the body but also the nation, offering a unique exploration of our cultural roots.

Children of the Algo: Navigating Gen Z Realities

Directed by John Moran, Mixkaela Villalon’s “Children of the Algo” explores the hidden realities of Gen Z content creators in the digital age. With wit and vulnerability, the play challenges viewers to see beyond the algorithm, unveiling deeper truths.

Kislap at Fuego: A Fairytale Amidst Revolution

Directed by Maribel Legarda and J-mee Katanyag, Filipino translation by Gentle Mapagu

Dominique La Victoria’s “Kislap at Fuego” transports audiences to an unexpected fairytale set amidst the Philippine Revolution against Spain. The play seeks to reshape conversations about love, rebirth, and revolution.

/ (Slash): Navigating Influencer Culture

Directed by Meann Espinosa

Liza Magtoto’s “/ (Slash),” directed by Meann Espinosa, delves into the complex world of influencer culture. As an influencer’s best friend faces cancellation, the play explores loyalty, righteousness, and branding in the industry.

Ang Parangal: A Humorous Take on Inept Governance

Direction & concept by Eric dela Cruz, adaptation & co-conceptualized with Michelle Ngu-Nario

Directed by Eric dela Cruz, “Ang Parangal” adapts Miloš Forman’s 1967 comedy film, The Fireman’s Ball. The play unfolds as a group of barangay tanod organizes a community celebration, showcasing the dire ineptitude in governance, proving that spectacles and good intentions aren’t enough.

Nakatala Sa Tubig: Women’s Roles in Times of War

Direction & concept by Eric dela Cruz, adaptation & co-conceptualized with Michelle Ngu-Nario

Glecy Atienza’s “Nakatala Sa Tubig” (Staged Reading) collaborates with Anthony Cruz & Bobet Mendoza to present a performance discourse on water and the lives and roles of women in times of war. In this adaptation of Miloš Forman’s 1967 comedy film, The Fireman’s Ball, a group of barangay tanod organizes a community celebration in tribute for their retired barangay captain but crumbles in the face of their dire ineptitude. Spectacles and good intentions are not enough to make up for incompetence in governance.

Pilipinas, Geym Ka Na Ba?: Dark Twists in Childhood Games

Directed by Kovi Billones with directing guidance from Ian Segarra

In this devised performance by Umalohokan, Inc., directed by Kovi Billones with guiding insight from Ian Segarra, Kyle Saldonido’s “Pilipinas, Geym Ka Na Ba?” explores the dark twists in childhood games that the residents of Barangay Pinapili must conquer to leave an obscure playground.

KUMPRONTASYON: Theater as a Platform for Difficult Conversations

Melvin Lee’s “KUMPRONTASYON” presents three plays – Allan Palileo’s “Lakambini,” Guelan Luarca’s “The Impossible Dream,” and Joshua Lim So’s “A Color for Tomorrow.” This production serves as a powerful platform for difficult but necessary conversations on unresolved historical and political events.

The Power of Theater

These thought-provoking performances aim to use the power of theater as a platform for collective meaning-making and social transformation. PETA invites everyone to join this theatrical revolution and witness the empowering stories come to life! For more information and ticket reservations, visit tinyurl.com/PETAControlShift. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a narrative transformation that might just change the world.