The dysfunctional political climate of the Philippines has its origins in the formation of the first republic, the obvious theme of the musical Mabining Mandirigma. Apolinario Mabini (Monique Wilson) counsels President Emilio Aguinaldo (David Ezra) who repeatedly falls for the schemes of the ilustrado elite.
Mabining Mandirigma was directed by Chris Millado from the libretto by Nicanor Tiongson and music by Joed Balsamo.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
Draped in blanket, the client comfortably holds a mirror to check how his barber is making progress . . . literally under the sun and beside a city creek.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
If He Doesn’t See Your Face by Suzue Toshiro is a domestic story set inside the strict Japanese prison visiting facility room. Here, the couple – the man being the prisoner – talk about family life and son, and reaffirm their love.
This was staged at the Areté arts hub of the Ateneo de Manila University, directed by Ricardo Abad, and starred by Brian Matthew Sy and Delphine Buencamino.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
A thousand origami cranes is believed to make one’s wish come true. I have not counted how many origami cranes hang in this Japanese restaurant.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
Fast and slow: People move in their own relativity. Each person has their own pace.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
Visual Tales 