‘Siddhartha: The Musical’ returns on Cebu stage

CEBU, Philippines - Fo Guang Shan Philippines, in collaboration with Buddha’s Light International Association, will stage “Siddhartha: The Musical” at Cinema 1 of SM City Cebu on December 8-12.

 A sneak peek of “Siddhartha: The Musical” was held November 10 at Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple, V. Rama Ave, Cebu City.

 Directed by Sarah Mae Enclona-Henderson, with musical direction by Jude Gitamondoc, “Siddhartha: The Musical” tells the story of Siddhartha, the prince who relinquished his royal status to seek enlightenment. He would eventually become the Buddha, the awakened one. As an infant, he was prophesied to be either a great king or an enlightened monk.

 In trying to prevent him from becoming a monk, his father the king kept him within the ease and boundaries of the kingdom. Siddhartha grew up wholly oblivious to the pain and suffering all around him. However, during a trip outside the palace grounds, he came face to face with the hostile realities of old age, sickness and death. His heart was so affected by the sight that he left his family and set out into the world to look for a way to end all human grief.

 In the course of seven long years of probing and self-examination, he finally accomplished illumination and became the Buddha. From then on, he advocated the practice and proliferation of The Noble Path, setting in motion one of the oldest and richest religious traditions of all time. In dealing with grand themes such as impermanence, causes and conditions and interconnectedness, at heart, Siddhartha is still a coming-of-age story of a young man, searching for the significance of life.

 The musical is based on the book “The Biography of Sakyamuni Buddha” by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order. Most of the songs used in the musical are also based on the writings of the Venerable Master.

 The cast of over 70 volunteer actors and dancers showcases the musical and performing talents of Filipinos, predominantly of Cebuanos.  “Siddhartha: The Musical” is the group’s 100th show and has been shown in 12 countries within 10 years.

 For more information and inquires about the upcoming staging of "Siddhartha: The Musical,” check out the Facebook page of Siddhartha The Musical Philippines. (FREEMAN)