Bakunawa, diwata, duwende, kapre feature in play about teenage bullying

MANILA, Philippines — Ada, Lundag sa Hiwaga, a dance performance that features Philippine mythical creatures will be staged beginning Monday, Dec. 11 to Tuesday, Dec. 12, at the 5F Theater of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Design + Arts Campus.

A tale of self-discovery and the effects of teenage bullying, the story centers on the life of high school student Ada, who suddenly faced day-to-day intimidation from her once close friend Maggie after an incident during a wholesome game.

With her lost confidence and morale, she found hope after she discovered and entered the magical world called Hiwaga.

Ada then explored an adventure filled with challenges and heartbreaks through a new domain inhabited by mythological beings such as bakunawa (serpent-like dragon), diwata (fairies), duwende (dwarfs), and kapre (tree demon). They all assisted her to open up with her true identity.

The 90-minute production was written by Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awardee and staging company Langgam Performance Troupe Artistic Associate Jay “BJ” Crisostomo IV. It was directed by Benilde Dance Program educators and industry experts Madonna Tinoy and Mycs Villoso. The full-length play was produced by Benilde Dance Chairperson and training school Australian Conservatoire of Ballet (ACB) accredited examiner Nina Anonas.

Choreography was by Tinoy, Villoso, and Anonas, and was co-chreographed by Benilde Dance alumna and first resident group of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Ballet Philippines soloist Monica Gana.

It will showcase the talent and skills of the young student-artists led by the Dance Program, in collaboration with Creative Industries Management, Culture-Based Arts, Music Production, Production Design, and Theater Arts Programs of the Benilde School of Arts, Culture, and Performance (SACP).

Ada, Lundag sa Hiwaga, will be staged from Dec. 11 to 12, with screenings at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

It will be held at the 5F Theater of the Benilde Design + Arts Campus, 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila.

Tickets are available at P600.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/benildearts.