MGA KUWENTO NI JUAN
TAMAD is the latest addition to Alice Reyes Dance Philippines' expansive
repertoire of Filipino works, this time designed specifically for Children's
Dance Theater.
This new offering
marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl
Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length
choreography.
The production is
brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning
singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the
renowned Filipino Director and Broadway Designer, Loy Arcenas.
Under the
mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic
Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience
for young audiences.
The story follows
the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal
monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with
animals and his innate love for nature, they set out to find the
village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor
stolen by the greedy ‘Buwaya,’ the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ A challenge he must
complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.
Along his journey,
Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of
‘Pagong at Kuneho,’ ‘Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara,’ and ‘Buwaya at ang
Paboreal.’ Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that
guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character,
and ultimately finds the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ Inspired by the classic Filipino
children’s stories of ‘Juan Tamad,’ this production brings a new twist to the
beloved tales.
The new work will
feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with
Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted
sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John
Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as
Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as
the Gamu–gamu.
This production is
specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School
subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa
Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education.
Through dance and storytelling, MGA KUWENTO NI JUAN TAMAD offers an enriching,
multidisciplinary educational experience.
MGA KUWENTO NI JUAN
TAMAD premieres on November 10, 2024, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as
part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission
is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Please stay tuned on Cultural Center of the Philippines’
Social Media Pages for registration links.
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