Purely Personal
‘Caysasay’ musical opens Oct. 25 in Taal
By Josephine Darang
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 06:04:00 10/05/2008
Filed Under: history, Religions, Theatre
MANILA, Philippines - After two years of delay, the musical play “Mapaghimalang Birhen ng Caysasay ” is set to open Oct. 25, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., at the newly renovated Taal gym covered court that can accommodate 4,000 people, according to Ramon Orlina, executive producer. It’s like a coming home for the play as the miracle of the Virgin Mary took place in barrio Labag, Taal, in 1603. Singer Ogie Alcasid is going to play Haybing, who was beheaded by the Spaniards, but lived again with the help of Our Lady of Caysasay.
The script was written by Nestor Torre and music by Ryan Cayabyab. Other cast members are: Ivy Violan as Sylvia; Tommy Abuel, Fray José; Rito Asilo, Juan Maningcad; Nicole David, Laine; Andy Bais, Tiburcio; Shiela Asuncion, Dr. Elvira; Mica Torre, Tobey; Cecil Torre, Selya; and Roychel Torre, Matilde.
Successful premiere
In July 2005, “Mapaghimalang Birhen ng Caysasay” had a successful premiere at the Little Theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. It was acclaimed as Cayabyab’s best musical (Broadway style) that touched the hearts of viewers.
A road tour was held beginning Oct. 30, 2006, in Balayan, Batangas. On Feb. 24, 2006, two memorable shows were held at the Lyceum of Batangas and University of Batangas.
Far Eastern University hosted two shows on Aug. 16, 2006, at its famous art deco auditorium. It was part of the university’s cultural program. For tickets to the Taal show, text 0917-8805108.
Sayaw Foundation
It takes a lot of people who care to give sustained support for the enhancement of the status of the Filipino dancer artist as performer, choreographer or teacher. Sol Tan Gatue, president of Sayaw Foundation, and her friends care. There are 250 scholars to date who have been helped by the foundation. The first president was Mita Rufino, followed by Yaying Dragon.
The partnership with the City of Mandaluyong started in 2001 with the enthusiastic support of Cora Abalos and then Mayor Benhur Abalos Jr. and wife Menchie. The multipurpose hall of Highway Hills Elementary School was chosen as the venue of ballet and dance classes of the young dance scholars from different barangays on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Aside from ballet training from professionals in the field, Sayaw Foundation also provides the scholars with costumes, ballet shoes, leotards and tights.
Classes are conducted by Luther O. Perez and his three assistants, plus more are hired during recitals and presentations. They have trained over 250 scholars. At present, there are 85 regular beginners and advanced scholars training at Kaban ng Hiyas with three classes two times a week.
Rep. Cynthia Villar opened the same project in Las Piñas Central Elementary School with 150 scholars attending every week. Another project is being arranged in partnership with Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay this year.
Philippine Ballet Theater
These scholars performed recently in “Darangen ni Bantugen” by the Philippine Ballet Theater at the CCP Main Theater for the benefit of Sayaw Foundation. Mounted by the Filipino Heritage Festival headed by Mita Rufino, the ballet-epic directed by Gener Caringal showed the young dancers at their best. Thanks to people who care. Still, Sol Tan Gatue says, “I wish we could do more.”
Pilgrimage
Fr. Gerry Tapiador’s pilgrimage to Marian Shrines in Europe has been moved to Nov. 3. Call Sonia Garcia at 7721737 or text her at 0928-6958000. Lourdes, France, is the main highlight of the trip.
Fr. Rey Magnaye
The late Fr. Rey Magnaye was able to come out with an “Unang Alay” CD and songbook before he passed away in 1997 due to heart attack. In his memory, the diocese of Malolos is making available his CD. To buy, please text 0922-8021124 or call (044) 7910288.
Cavite mutiny
Gene de los Reyes, who built Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Gen. Trias, Cavite, is a descendant of Crisanto Mendoza de los Reyes who was one of 154 Filipinos who risked life, future, comfort and security when they joined the Cavite Mutiny in 1872. In March 1995, the Geronimo Berenguer de los Reyes Foundation published a full account of the mutiny. How to get a free copy, text Mitz Lomboy at 0917-8120690.
Living with the saints
“Living with the Saints Part II” will take place at the Resurrection of the Lord Parish in BF Homes II, Parañaque. After the successful attempt by Tony Medina of the Faithful Heroes Shining Times to acquaint people about the saints, the second time around goes on a bigger scale with the Veritas School Parents Association, the Legion of Mary and the Knights of Columbus involved.
Mary for the youth
In the morning of Oct. 18, Msgr. Mario Martinez will open the seminar on “Mary for the Youth Today” at Veritas Parochial School. Invited speakers are Fr. Zenki Manabat, Sis. Teresing Castillo and Fr. Francis Gustilo, SDB.
Healing Masses
The Matthew 8:17 Healing Ministry will hold healing Masses of Fr. Zenki Manabat on Oct. 11, 6 p.m., at Nuestra Señora de Salvacion Parish on Anonas St., NDC Compound in Sta. Mesa, Manila; Oct. 29, 6 p.m., in San Isidro Labrador Parish on Zodiac Ave., Veraville Homes I in Almanza, Las Piñas City; and Oct. 30, 8 p.m., in Edsa Shrine.
Molano exhibit
Famous jewelry-artist Celia Molano has always created her jewelry designs as the Spirit moved her. Her finished works like bracelets, earrings and necklaces bring about a feeling of peace. Celia credits this feeling to the fact that she is “anointed” by the “enchanted.” Celia Molano’s exhibit opens at the White Cube of Metropolitan Museum on Oct. 14, 6 p.m.
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