About the Event
It's that time of year when the most popular bird in Philippine mythology and literature takes flight again to punish wrongdoers and reward the deserving.
IBONG ADARNA—as reimagined by playwright ED MARANAN, and given life by director ROOBAK VALLE and the actors of Gantimpala Theater Foundation—is now on its eighth year, as part of the GTF's 40th season. 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 fabulous bird, whose magical songs serve as the only cure to Haring Fernando’s severe illness brought about by a nightmare soon to befall a favorite son.
This production is based on the metrical epic poem from the Philippine Spanish colonial period, entitled 'Corrido at Buhay na Pinagdaanan nang Tatlong Principeng Magkakapatid na Anak nang Haring Fernando at nang Reina Valeriana sa Kahariang Berbania.’
The playwright has added new lines of poetic dialogue, and introduces new characters, the most important of which are a minstrel-narrator (who also plays the traditional role of the Ermitanyo) and a chorus of townspeople (Taumbayan) who comment on the foibles and frailties of Royalty.
Tony Espejo, artistic director of Gantimpala Theater Foundation, wrote in his remarks for the inaugural performance in 2010:
“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 Maranao. These original choreographies are creations of National Artist for Dance, the late Ramon Obusan.”
Playdates:
AFP Theater :
Sept. 29 - 9:00 am / 12:00 nn
Sept. 30 - 9:00 am / 12:00 nn
SM Manila :
Oct. 6 - 10:00 am / 1:00 pm
SM Southmall :
Oct 13 - 11:00 am / 2:00 pm
For more information/booking reservations, please call Gantimpala Marketing Office: +632-998-5622 / +632-872-0261 / +63921-251-3733.