Trickery meets Teamwork in Si Pilandok at Ang Bayan ng Bulawan

I just got home from watching a musical at Rizal Mini Theater in Ateneo. It felt so good to be back "home" especially with friends whom you shared great college memories with. Special mention to Margie, Tim and Mika. Ayan ah, na-mention na kayo! Wish granted! Chuice!

Anyway, I watched the critics'/ preview night of Si Pilandok at ang Bayan ng Bulawan


Presented by Ateneo ENTABLADO and the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation, the original musical presented a fresh take on the classic Filipino kwentong-bayan character of the clever Pilandok. Fresh because first, they tried fusing modern elements to the traditional Maranaw theme such as a Naruto character, semblance of Lady Gaga, use of high tech gadgets and even tag-lines and chants from popular TV commercials.

In addition to that, the musical successfully revisits the theme of 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution as it builds on the value of working together towards achieving a certain goal. In the case of the play, triumphing over a greedy Datu who stole the Bulawan which is their source of light, warmth and life.

I found the play really entertaining. The characters were funny, and the songs were great as they were accompanied by traditional/ ethnic instruments. The play of lights was interesting too such as the creative use of blacklight and improvised battery-operated torches.

Bongga o!

The message was something that adults could be too familiar with already. I think its a must watch for kids as they will repeatedly learn most basic values of unity, cooperation and bayanihan. A good watch for grown-ups who may want to relax, laugh a little and be entertained.

Congratulations to everyone who took part in this play! Play dates are on August 24-28 & 31 and September 1-4- all at 7:00 PM. Also on August 28 and September 4 at 10 AM and 2:00 PM. I believe it will be shown at Meralco Theater too. Tickets are at 250Php each.

Sidekwento:

Pilandok is not just a fictional character but a real ANIMAL...

Cute ka?

It is small and has a brown coat with black and white stripes. It is found in the Philippines only in Balabac island, south of Palawan. The mouse deer roams actively during the night and hides out inside the forests during the day. It is one of the country's most endangered species. (Info courtesy of PIA)