teatro balangaw, marinduque

Looking back at Mara Unduk

2011-09-06T10:01:00.000+08:00

Marinduque's pre-colonial anitos.

Malindig volcano and Tres Reyes Islands in Marinduque

A burial scene from Mara Unduk

Article from Business World with Teatro Balangaw photo

"...villages were submerged in mud and sand, bringing havoc and destruction once again."

Mara Unduk performance for the Southern Tagalog Kundiman Fiesta"

Mara Unduk performance at Daupan Festival for the Centennial of Philippine Revolution

“Teatro Balangaw, Marinduque’s community-based theater group, will present “Mara Unduk”, a dance-drama based on the island’s mythical history as gathered from folklore. The play, first presented by the group three years ago, delivers a clear message: Nature’s violent and deadly acts are brought about by man himself. The theme is considered very timely, in the wake of the mine tailings spillage in Boac river recently, a problem which Marinduque is still recovering from at present.” (Marinduque Cultural Show Today, Manila Bulletin, May 5, 1996)

“The highlight of the program for the first day, The Story of Mara Unduk, was such a success. If the thundering round of applause could not compensate for the stress and pressure brought about by late night rehearsals, I cannot think of anything else that could. Tatlong bagsak para sa Teatro Balangaw!” (Daupan Festival Newsletter, Sept. 17, 1996)

Culminating performance at the Children and Youth Theater Festival, Fort Santiago

Bahaghari

Jubilation after a performance

A workshop with his blogger, 2008.

“Akala raw ni Benjie hindi magsisimula ng 7 p.m. ang show kaya almost 9 p.m. na when he decided to bring us back to the town plaza. Only to discover na nagsimula na pala ang Mara Unduk at matatapos na halos. Kaya hindi na nakasama si Jeffrey Santos as the supreme god “Bathala Meikapal”! (Star Nga Ba?, Alfie Lorenzo, People’s Journal, Dec. 11, 1992)

Mara Unduk

2011-03-15T15:43:00.003+08:00

Myths and legends are told, retold and re-interpreted. Events, characters and symbols intrinsic to such stories are said to contain certain truths, sparks from the subconscious, that find fufillment in time. This 1992 material, MARA UNDUK that was presented by the Teatro Balangaw group as a dance-drama from Marinduque villages to audiences at Nayong Pilipino and Fort Santiago appear to have come full circle now, as most of the episodes and characters in the story have all rendezvoused with their own destiny in the real world. Others just refer to this seeming phenomenon as plain art imitating life again and again...or life imitating art:

In the days of Bathala, when two moons still sailed the sky the earth was inhabited by highly-gifted spirit-people who lived in harmony with all existence. Such incredibly immense powers they had, for they controlled the four elements of Fire, Air, Water and Earth. Over time, however, they became too proud to the point that "Mayana", the Goddess of the Lower Moon, was angered, smashing her lunar abode onto the Earth. This was known as the First Upheaval - that which caused an island to spring from the sea. The few survivors named it "Mara Unduk", sea mountain.

The Earth was left under the care of the gentle Goddess of the Higher moon, "Buwana". A new order was established under the rule of the sorcerer, "Katalona", who dominated the people's lives. But the survivors who have learned to hunt for food have forgotten who they were or where they came from. They had no notion of their destiny.

Strange dreams haunted the people for a long time and, to understand them, a ritual was held one day. The young maiden, "Baylana" was bathed in incense and flower extracts and was put to sleep. In a trance, she spoke with the voice of the spirit protector, "Marindik".

"Alon", a hunter serving as the sorcerer Katalona's apprentice falls in love with Baylana. The relationship ended in a tragedy for the young maiden and for Katalona. For the sorcerer, Alon's mission to chart his people's destiny was loftier and more important than Alon's love for Baylana.

Such lawlessness and disorder descended upon the village that the people lost their sense of hope and direction. Marindik was displeased that she caused her dwelling on the mountaintop to emit burning rocks, and for heaven to weep. The villages were submerged in mud and sand, bringing havoc and destruction once again.

In the midst of it all, Alon finds union with his primeval past, experiences unity with the elemental spirits and with all existence. The enlightened Alon thus becomes whole again - the new TAO - the one to lead his people to their rightful and glorious destiny.

"Ang Kristo, Pasyondula"

2011-02-22T15:25:00.000+08:00

Scene from the premiere presentation of "Ang Kristo: Pasyondula", Buenavista, Marinduque, April 12 & 13, 2006.

TEATRO BALANGAW PHOTOS

2011-01-22T09:10:00.003+08:00

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Malindig peak

2010-07-17T11:46:00.003+08:00

How it looks like at the peak of Marinduque's Mt. Malindig. Malindig was derived from the word "malindug" which means steep and elegant. It was the inspiration for Teatro Balangaw's first dance-drama, "Mara Unduk" presented at the Boac Covered Court in 1992, on the occasion of the Boac Town Fiesta. The dance-drama was a re-interpretation of Marinduque's folk history.

GINTONG BINHI, golden seed

2010-06-19T16:17:00.001+08:00

“GINTONG BINHI”, the 1st MIMAROPA Arts and Culture Summit, part of the NCCA Institutional Promotion in the Regions was conducted on February this year as part of the Philippine International Arts Festival 2010 and 90th Anniversary of "Araw ng Marinduque". Venue was at the Provincial Training Center in Tamayo, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque

The project was an offshoot of the 1st Luzon Arts and Culture Summit held in September last year in Malolos, Bulacan, and participated in by representatives from Marinduque led by this blogger. The Marinduque project was designed to promote the NCCA programs in the region; refresh the skills of Arts Councils & Organizations in Program Development, Project Management, & Proposal Making; establish NCCA desks in LGUs, schools, & cultural institutions; reinforce the LGU-NCCA partnership in arts & cultural promotion; and organize an adhoc of Regional Arts & Culture Network in the region.

Above are the participants to the forum who came from Occidental Mindoro, Romblon and the six Marinduque municipalities.

Walang Sugat in Marinduque

2010-06-18T16:05:00.001+08:00

"Walang Sugat", the well-loved sarswela masterpiece by Filipino librettist Severino Reyes was presented in Marinduque in February 18 & 19, 2010, only the second time it was seen on the island after more than a century. This zarzuela was first presented here in 1902 on the occasion of the Boac town fiesta with no less than then Fiscal of Tayabas and future Philipine president, Manuel L. Quezon as guest of honor.

That original production was mounted by Gran Compania de Zarzuela Tagala of Manila and was brought to Marinduque in the same year it was premiered to the world.

The 2010 production was staged by Barasoain Kalinangan Foundation, Inc. (BKFI), recipient of CCP's Gawad para sa Sining as best theater group in the Philippines.

The project highlighted the 90th Anniversary of "Araw ng Marinduque" and Philippine International Arts Festival 2010 celebration on this island, spearheaded by the provincial government of Marinduque in cooperation with National Commission for Culture & the Arts (NCCA), CCP, BKFI and the island-province's six municipalities.

The occasion also served as an avenue to promote NCCA programs and partnership with LGUs in the MIMAROPA Region with the holding of the "Gintong Binhi" the 1st Mimaropa Arts & Culture Forum

VIVA MARINDUQUE! Ani ng Sining in Marinduque 2009

2010-06-15T15:29:00.023+08:00

The project was conceptualized in response to an invitation from the NCCA to propose a project in line with the celebration of the Philippine Arts Festival in 2008, where the province of Marinduque was involved.

A grant of PHP 100,000.00 was given by the Commission to the Provincial Government of Marinduque, and quick response from all sectors to support the project was likewise accorded.

In 2008 Ani ng Sining in Marinduque was undertaken via a cultural showcase that included the various art forms from February 6-26, 2008. A series of shows was presented in all the six (6) municipalities of Marinduque that involved 100-120 artistic and production staff.

All the municipalities contributed their own showcases/numbers through songs, dances or plays, making it a truly unifying project. It might have been the longest Philippine Arts Festival held in a particular locality.

Critical acclaim to the project by those who were able to watch it was strengthened by two separate resolutions – one from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Marinduque which praised the project for having “exuded the province’s unique culture, customs and traditions which were hailed by most of those who witnessed the various activities and presentations relative to the same”

and “ despite the limited time and budget of the provincial government and the six municipalities, it did not constrain them from organizing a committee that made the event a success and even strengthened a collaborative effort with the national government offices/agencies and other organizations that led to such an achievement”.

The second resolution was adopted by the Sangguniang Bayan ng Gasan which stated that “those who were able to watch the presentation of this theatrical production can not help but admire the depth of its message, the beauty of its choreography, and the craftiness of its adaptation of light and sound effects and musical scoring”,

that “Viva Marinduque is truly reflective of the richness of Marinduque’s beliefs, customs and traditions, and can also be an effective vehicle in the preservation of these cultures”;

further stating that the participation of Gasan youths “in this theatrical production have elevated them to a new dimension of skills, confidence and discipline” and that Viva Marinduque “is worthy of watching again and again and again”.

The project encompassed popularly known Marinduque rituals and traditions such as “Putong” and “Moriones”, as well as pre-colonial beliefs and practices, its native language (Marinduque Tagalog), considered, according to a study, as the root or among the roots from which modern national forms of speech have sprung,

mysticism, native dances, and recently discovered old Marinduque songs and music, original contemporary songs and other artistic expressions (festivities, theatre, traditional crafts, native musical instruments, morion masks and other masks, visual arts and showcase of live butterflies).

Production numbers organized by the various municipalities during the performances in said municipalities shall be part of this project.

In line with NCCA’s stated objectives for the arts festival celebration the project’ objectives were:

1. To celebrate the fruits of the creative efforts of the past year’s artistic creations.

2. To promote the Filipino creativity, specifically of local and indigenous talents, through various forms of artistic expressions.

3. To provide a venue for broader participation in creative activities.

4. To drumbeat “Araw ng Marinduque” as a new avenue for cultural-tourism promotion and development in the province.

The project also aimed to raise the level of cultural awareness among local artists and the community, in general.

It was expected to pave the way for the honing of local talents, as well as strengthening their network among other artists, cultural workers and arts enthusiasts within and beyond the island-province.

The project was, likewise, seen as a rare opportunity to raise the level of local and national awareness on Marinduque’s rich cultural heritage.

Specifically, the following were re-staged:

1. “MORYONAN” – a dance-drama on Marinduque’s famous Lenten tradition). Twelve (12) actors shall perform this new dance that depicting the initial preparation of ‘moriones’ practitioners up to the mock chaseing, capture and beheading of Longhino. Other Holy week rituals shall be incorporated in the re-mounted production.

2. “BULONG” (pronounced Boo’-long) – a dance-drama on teleportation, a belief that old folks and the young in far-flung areas still cling to. The travel into another dimension in time and space is used as a device to present different folk beliefs and episodes in Marinduque’s cultural evolution, i.e. pre-colonial Marinduque, local customs and traditions, belief in anito (Pastores), underworld characters (aswang, enkanto, white lady, duwende, etc; introduction of Christianity, clashes with pirates, etc.

3. “AWIT SA PULANG LUPA” – a dance-drama with original song by Eli Obligacion on the battle of Pulang Lupa, where Filipinos staged a major victory over the Americans. The brief drama shows how the community was disrupted by the arrival of American troops who engaged the local revolutionaries in a battle that exploded at Pulang Lupa; the defeat of the foreign invaders and eventual surrender.

4. “KALUTANG” (Wooden musical instruments) – to be performed by the only known group of young boys and old men who have mastered Kalutang playing.

5. “HARANA” – local songs of courtship

6. “PUTONG” – the local welcome or thanksgiving song-and-dance ritual given to honorees that involves crowning them with flowers, showering of petals and leaves, tossing of coins and fun.

7. LOCAL FOLK DANCES & FOLK SONGS – provided by the Marinduque State College, through its cultural group, "Sambayang Sining Lahi".

BULONG PART 1

2009-08-21T14:47:00.004+08:00

Excerpt from "Bulong" dance-drama on Marinduque's folk beliefs and culture. Presented by Teatro Balangaw as part of Araw ng Marinduque-Ani ng Sining in February 2009 in the six towns of Boac, Buenavista, Gasan, Mogpog, Sta. Cruz and Torrijos.

BULONG PART 2 (Excerpt)

2009-08-21T14:25:00.005+08:00

Excerpt from Teatro Balangaw's "Bulong" dance-drama, Marinduque, Philippines, Feb 2009. This dance-drama was first staged in Gasan in 2002 as part of the Araw ng Gasan celebration started that year, original cast composed of students from Bangbang National High School. The following year it was mounted in Buenavista with students from Marinduque Victorians College. In 2006 students from Buenavista National High School and Marinduque Victorians College joined in the staging of "Bulong" for the town fiesta celebration. In 2007 it was re-staged as part of the first official celebration of "Araw ng Marinduque" with students from Marinduque Midwest College and presented in all of Marinduque's six municipalities, (VIVA MARINDUQUE! project), the first such performance-tour conducted in the island province. In 2008 the provincial tour was repeated with students of Bognuyan National High School and selected out-of-school youths from Gasan (shown in this video).

MORYONAN, THE DANCE-DRAMA

2009-07-02T08:40:00.003+08:00

Bhong Macunat's last work. He organized some out-of-school boys from barangays Bognuyan and Bacong-Bacong in Gasan to perform this dance drama. They also served as our production crew in all the seven Viva shows throughout this island-province(two shows in Boac and one each in the other five towns).

ANI NG SINING IN MARINDUQUE

2009-07-02T08:26:00.002+08:00

This is the introduction of the Ani ng Sining-Viva Marinduque video with remarks by Governor Bong Carrion. Selected sequences of that video will be posted on this blogsite.

2009-06-24T01:36:00.002+08:00

Slideshow of Viva Marinduque. Background music performed by Pangkat Kalutang of Bangbang.

"BILA-BILA" BUTTERFLY

2009-06-10T23:22:00.000+08:00

MSC Sambayang Sining Lahi dances "Bila-Bila", composed by Prof. Rex Emmanuel Asuncion as part of "Viva Marinduque '09".

TORMEA CHOIR

2009-06-10T23:13:00.001+08:00

"TORMEA Choir" of Torrijos. The best singers of the Torrijos Municipal Employees Association under the baton of the multi-talented Jess Briones.

"MARINDUQUE AKIN KA"

2009-06-10T22:54:00.004+08:00

"Reunited Choir" of Boac.

"Marinduque Akin Ka"

Titik at Musika: Eli J. Obligacion

Isang paraiso sa gitna ng dagat

Ay muling nabuhay

Sa aking pangarap ngayon

Kahapo'y di mawaglit sa aking isip

Ngayo'y buhay ka't di na panaginip.

Marinduque akin ka

Puso mo'y puso ko

Awit mo'y awit ko di ba

At ngayo'y magkayakap

ang ating damdami'y iisa.

Isang paraiso'ng ilaw sa karimlan

Batis ng pag-asa

Bayan ma'y sadlak sa dusa

Kahapon mo'y may pait, luha at sakit

Ngayo'y nagising diwa'y nagupiling.

Marinduque gising na/akin ka

Puso mo'y puso ko

Awit mo'y awit ko di ba/di baga

At ngayo'y magkayakap

Ang ating damdami'y iisa.

(Repeat Koro)

Ang ating damdami'y iisa

Marinduque akin ka.

"HAPIT HIMIGAN"

2009-06-10T22:22:00.003+08:00

"Hapit-Himigan" was a choral competition, one of many activities, held in connection with this year's "Araw ng Marinduque" celebration at the Boac Covered Court. "Marinduque Akin Ka", a song I wrote way back in 1992, as the theme song of "Mara Unduk" was chairman, Fe Corazon Recalde's choice as the contest piece.

For many years now, the said song has been sung by the Provincial Capitol Choir as part of their repertoire when performing for official guests and for out of town performances.

Participating groups were Gasan's "IFI Choral Ensemble" of the Parish of St. Joseph, "Reunited Choir" of Marinduque National High School and Boac North District, "Live Echoes Choir" of St. Mary's College of Marinduque, "Mogpog Municipal Chorale", and "TORMEA" Choir of Torrijos.

Judges were Prof. Norma Soldevilla of Gasan who also notated the contest piece, Dr. Roberto Montellano of Boac, Prof. Anacleto Mendoza of Sta. Cruz, Dindo Asuncion and myself. The "IFI Chorale Ensemble" (shown in photo), garnered the championship trophy, TORMEA choir was 1st runner-up and "Reunited Choir", 2nd runner up. Thanks to Ms. Recalde's efforts, there was a huge audience turn-out with municipal choir fans providing moral support to their entries.

OLIVER "BHONG" MACUNAT, 22

2009-06-06T16:00:00.004+08:00

Bhong Macunat (to the right) and me.

Bhong first joined our community theater group last year (2008).He was in charge of designing and making the special hand props and in supervising the stage preparations for our performance tour in the six towns of Marinduque. For this year's "Viva" project, however, he focused on creating additional dance movements for "Moryonan".

I first spotted Bhong when he was still a member of a modern dance group that joined local contests. They performed during the Buenavista Fiesta in January 2008, and there, he simply stood out among the dancers. I offered him the "Katalona" role in "Bulong" but was not interested, preferring to join us only as a member of the production staff.

During Viva rehearsals he supervised the warm-up exercises. He had an ability to command the attention of everybody with his smile and presence.

Because of his good looks and pleasant disposition, Bhong was extremely popular especially among the girls. They had fun imitating his antics and sensual gyrations when he did the exercises. He'd often say: "Hindi ko hinihingi na maging magaling kayo! Hinihingi ko lang na sundin ninyo ang pinapagawa ko!" (I'm not asking you to do it well! I'm just asking you to follow what I ask you to do!)
.
I practically begged him, again, to do the "Katalona" role this year. Bhong didn't have to be directed. I knew he'd come up with the most unforgettable Katalona performance ever. But he didn't budge, and I could only be sad about it. He was bent, as before, on working only behind the scenes.

During the cast party at my Bahaghari house, Bhong asked for the tarpaulin streamer for "Viva Marinduque" as a souvenir, and I was only too happy to hand it over to him.

A month after the Viva project, in March, he texted to say he's back in town and had a new cellphone number. He was back to Marinduque after spending a few weeks in Manila. By this time we, the Teatro Balangaw group from Buenavista, Gasan and Boac were busy with rehearsals for "Ang Kristo: Pasyondula", passion play.

Asked Bhong if he could please help us with the rehearsals. We only had a couple of weeks to mount it.

I never got to see him, again.

A couple of days later, he figured in a motorcycle accident in Bognuyan, Gasan where we used to hold rehearsals for "Moryonan" and "Bulong". The accident turned fatal.

Oliver 'Bhong' Macunat.

So young, so full of life and talent and promise.
Our dear Bhong said 'goodbye' at 22.

VIVA CAST 09

2009-06-06T14:44:00.002+08:00

The VIVA MARINDUQUE 09 cast arriving in Santa Cruz town for the last performance.

BUENAVISTA COASTAL PARK

2009-06-06T14:19:00.001+08:00

We chose the newly constructed coastal park in Buenavista as venue for our theater presentation as the stage at the town' covered court was too small to hold over a hundred performers.

This open space allowed freer movement for the performers and even for the huge audience expected to watch.

"BULONG" MURAL

2009-06-06T14:18:00.002+08:00

Installing the "Bulong" backdrop mural painted by artist Raymond Go as his personal contribution to Teatro Balangaw.

2008-08-06T15:24:00.000+08:00

Pls also visit http://marinduquegov.blogspot.com for current updates on Teatro Balagaw activities.

2008-05-26T16:15:00.001+08:00

2008-05-18T12:56:00.001+08:00

After "Viva Marinduque" Teatro Balangaw mounted "ANG KRISTO: PASYON-DULA" in the municipality of Gasan with top-caliber stage and movie actor JOHN ARCILLA portraying "Kristo". The three-hour play received a standing ovation from the critical Gasan audience.

Days before the showing flyers were distributed by not exactly unknown entities questioning the use of a professional actor! Ay sus!

The municipal government now wants "ANG KRISTO" presented annually every HOLY THURSDAY at the town's Guingona Park. It must be noted, however, that the Passion Play could not have been mounted without the participation of the former actors from Buenavista who joined the 1996 premiere presentation in said town. We had intended to make it an annual Buenavista Balangaw project but, but... I would say the play sana should be viewed in Buenavista yearly (J.E. SISON, the actor was with the original cast). We'll see.

I have started posting videos of some of our projects at http://marinduquegov.blogspot.com/ before I lose everything. At the height of "Ang Kristo" rehearsals, I lost my handycam and all the pictures of our projects from January to March mysterously disappeared from my laptop. The few photos I posted on this blog are what remains now, although the footages of the 6 performances in the municipalities of Boac, Buenavista, Gasan, Mogpog, Torrijos and Sta. Cruz remain intact on mini-VDs. It will take time to get them on the pc. Life goes on...

(Above photo: Was in Bagtingon one day in January. That's one of the few places in Marinduque which still mirrors life on this island about fifty years ago. That's Pastores hill in the background, where the only catalogued Tagalog anito was found by Frenchman Alfred Marche in 1881, in a cave there keeping watch over the pre-colonial dead. I thought finding a rainbow between me and the cave at 4:00 pm was some sign... whatever.)

"PASTORES"

2008-03-03T11:54:00.003+08:00

Pastores is the name of the Tagalog anito found in Marinduque and featured in a "Bulong" scene.

"BULONG"

2008-03-03T11:51:00.002+08:00

Scene from "Bulong" presented in Sta. Cruz Feb. 17, 2008.

"MORYONAN", Sta. Cruz

2008-03-03T11:47:00.005+08:00

"MORYONAN" Final performance in Sta. Cruz after series of performances in the six Marinduque municipalities.

"MORYONAN"

2008-03-03T11:47:00.004+08:00

"Moryonan" scene in Sta. Cruz during the last of six performances February 2008. Venue ws the Sta. Cruz Gym.

SETTING UP THE "VIVA" STAGE IN MOGPOG

2008-02-28T15:23:00.001+08:00

BACKSTAGE

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On the way to Sta. Cruz

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WHAT IS "VIVA MARINDUQUE!"?

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EVENT PROGRAM
“VIVA MARINDUQUE!”
(Ani ng Sining sa Marinduque:
Philippine Arts Festival 2008)

Proponent : PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF MARINDUQUE
Implementation: February 1-21, 2008
Source of Fund: NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR CULTURE & THE ARTS (NCCA); PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF MARINDUQUE; THE MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS OF BOAC. BUENAVISTA, GASAN, MOGPOG, TORRIJOS, STA. CRUZ & OTHER SPONSORS.

Background: THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF MARINDUQUE IN COOPERATION WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY THEATER GROUP, TEATRO BALANGAW HAS JUST SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDED A PROVINCIAL TOUR OF THE CULTURAL SHOWCASE "VIVA MARINDUQUE!", WHICH WAS PRESENTED IN MOGPOG FEB. 12, STA. CRUZ FEB. 17, BOAC, FEB. 21, BUENVISTA FEB. 22, TORRIJOS FEB. 24 AND GASAN FEB. 26.
Project Coordinator:
ELI J. OBLIGACION, Consultant for Cultural Affairs & Tourism Development, PGM; Founder and Artistic Director - Teatro Balangaw.

Description:
A performance and production showcase featuring Marinduque culture through dances, music, songs, theatre, film, architecture, visual arts and providing a venue for broader participation. It is a venue for the development of a truly Filipino artistic production and the promotion of artistic excellence.

Mechanics:
The program is expected to be interactive; collaborative; slated in public places within the date of implementation. Performing group is given flexibility to carry out activities beyond traditional arts expressions, so long as program is based on indigenous strengths, talents, skills and resources of the province.
Guidelines in the implementation, liquidation, documentation and terminal report preparation of the NCCA grant has been provided by the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Division (PMED).

EVENT PROGRAM:

The Marinduque program, through a multi-media production and information campaign, aimed to establish the island-province's influences and significance in the development of the national culture in general, and Tagalog culture in particular.

Cultural and historical researches are major components of this project which goes beyond the traditional arts expressions for which Marinduque has been known for, such as moryonan and putong which remain important features.

The whole production encompasses Marinduque’s pre-colonial beliefs and practices, language, mysticism, native dances, recently discovered old Marinduque songs and music, contemporary songs, revolutionary struggle, the Battle of Pulang Lupa, and other artistic expressions (festivities, theatre, traditional crafts, masks, and live butterflies).

Specifically, the project featured the following:
1. “Moryonan” – a dance-drama on Marinduque’s famous Lenten tradition (12 min.)
2. Native Dances, plays or songs (from Mogpog (“Battle of Camarin”,) Boac, Gasan, Torrijos and Buenavista presented local dances; Sta. Cruz presented 'Harana' and a choral rendition of the municipal hymn. For the presentations in Torrijos and Gasan, the Viva Marinduque cast was joined in by a dance group from Buenavista National High School with a dance from Libas, Buenavista.
3. “Bulong” (pronounced Boo’-long) – a dance-drama on teleportation, a belief that old folks and the young in far-flung areas still cling to. The travel in time and space is used as a tool to present different folk beliefs and episodes in Marinduque’s cultural evolution. (35 min)
4. “Labanan sa Pulang Lupa” – a dance-drama with original song on the battle of Pulang Lupa, where Filipinos staged a major victory over the Americans. (8 min)
5. A mini-feature on one of the U.N. Millenium Development Goals, "Poverty Alleviation" was created by the Teatro Balangaw Ensemble and presented in Boac.
5. “Kalutang Music” – (8 min)
6. “Harana” – featuring local songs of courtship. (12 min)
7. “Putong” - (Finale) (15 min)
8. Art (as stage backdrop) (Done by artist Raymond C. Go).

Teatro Balangaw undertook the work in cooperation with the Department of Education, Municipal Governments, Kalutang Band, Marinduque Capitol Choir, Bangbang National High School, Marinduque Midwest College, artists and youth groups.

This project, hopefully, shall be further developed as Marinduque’s official cultural showcase for presentation in festivals outside the province to help generate interest on the island, promote culture, arts, tourism and economic development in the locality. (As of today, NCCA, through representatives who have monitored the Marinduque project is already considering "Bulong" to be presented in Manila by end of March in connection with the World Theater Week festival.)

VIVA MARINDUQUE!

BALANGAW CAST PHOTOS

2008-02-28T14:13:00.002+08:00

FOUR ELEMENTS

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Facilitators during the workshop in January '08. From left: Eli, Frank Rivera, Joseph Ogalinola. Ian Sotto

VIVA CAST 2008

2008-02-28T14:02:00.002+08:00

Souvenir photo at the Gasan Kiosko.

CULTURAL VISIT MAKING A LASTING IMPACT...

2007-11-29T15:30:00.002+08:00

The following article was front page headline in the recently launched newspaper, THE WEEKLY MARINDUQUE, which I edit. The stage play referred to was a huge success... that artistic and creative inspiration derived by a supportive audience are just now beginning to surface...

FROM MARAWI TO MARINDUQUE -

CCP’S SINING KAMBAYOKA ON GASAN STAGE!

They were hailed in 1997 by the Cultural Center of the Philippines as the best theater group in the country. Their most successful work, “Broken Dream”, a dance-drama that revolves around the lives of the people of Mindanao caught in the conflict of war and how that war and greed shattered the people’s dreams, is the Philippines official entry to the “2006 Contacting the World Festival” in Manchester, England and the “Aberdeen International Arts Festival” in Scotland.

Sining Kambayoka Ensemble (SKE) is the resident theatre company of Mindanao State Univesity, Marawi City. Leaving an impressive mark among the critical audience worldwide in UK, they returned to the country to wow more audience from Luzon, Visayas and their native Mindanao where they have become a household word.

Reviews from England included the following remarks: “ The company has no fear! They tried new ways of expressing themselves while still holding on to their traditions. Taking the risk was fantastic. They made a beautiful piece that challenged you to think about the world!”, wrote Dianne Thornton, artistic facilitaro of the CTW Festival.

“The company made a bold and brave decision to make a narrative that drew on traditional performance linked to contemporary stories!”, said Noel Greig, festival artist mentor. “There was a high level of drama which kept it moving at a pace which was entertaining. It was very epic and almost “operatic” in its style and form”, said artistic director Sam Scott of New Zealand.

As part of CCP’s outreach program to bring theatre to the grassroots communities (a purpose not really akin to the Marinduque audience where a few theatre groups have survived a different type of conflict), SKE will conquer the Gasan stage with their world-renowned piece.

The Marinduque performance is part of the outreach tour that includes Pila, Laguna, Colegio de San Agustin (Nov 7), Miriam College (Nov 8), Malolos, Bulacan (Nov 10), Arellano University (Nov 13), San Fernando, La Union (Nov 15), Marikina (Nov 15), and Gasan, Marinduque (Nov 18).

The Marinduque performance comes at a time when the newly-installed administration of Gov. Bong Carrion has declared the development of traditional arts and culture as a major component of the eco-tourism and cultural-tourism package being promoted by his administration to spur economic development.

“We also have made sure that the production will be made accessible to the less privileged members from the barangay communities by bringing the show to Gasan”, said Carrion. “It is also a recognition of the initiatives made over the years by the people of Gasan in cultural and tourism development.

Mayor Vicky Lao Lim of Gasan has sought the help of individuals and schools to ensure the success of the project: “We have a very small budget for cultural programs and had to tap the assistance of our culture-bound kababayans who are enthusiastic to see this world-class show!”

Director Carmencita Bernardo of the outreach and exchange division of CCP and the office of the governor’s consultant for cultural affairs and tourism development, Eli Obligacion are the principal coordinators for the show.

The show will be preceded by a mini-workshop for local arts groups to share with them the kambayoka theater form as well as Mindanao music and dances. On the other hand, the Gasenos have volunteered to hail the group through their traditional “Putong” and “Kalutang” music. Bernardo has guaranteed that the performance, interaction and workshop are very unique learning experiences that will surely be educational and engaging.

Showdate is on Sunday, November 18th, at 7:00 PM at Gasan Municipal Tennis Court.

Sining Kambayoka hailed in Manchester

Biodiversity at the peak of Malindig Volcano

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photo by Jovs Lilles

VICE GOVERNOR TOMPIZARRO

2007-10-18T11:45:00.003+08:00

CARRION'S 1ST 100 DAYS

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At the provincial capitol's session hall.

The Participants & Guests

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Elected officials, national and provincial department heads, barangay captains, supporters.

Flowers and songs

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Orchids from Bangkok ordered by Armi Carrion, Alln Macapugay rendering a nationalistic song,"Dakilang Lahi"

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Gov.Carrion and Vice-Gov. Pizarro, Mrs. Carrion and Jaime Barbosa, prov. admin. Below is emcee, Ms. Marian Cunanan of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO)

at the Marinduque Capitol Session Hall

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Board members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Marinduque.
The Capitol CHoir singing "Lupang Hinirang". Sb Member Bong Raza, Jr; SB meber Jasper Lim escorting the Governor and his First Lady to the session hall.

Balangaw Ensemble doing Doxology

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Doxology video in YouTube. "Carrion's 1st 100 Days"

View of San Andres island, Mogpog, taken by Jovs Lilles

2007-10-17T13:03:00.001+08:00

LONGHINO MASK IN GASAN. NOT BLIND.

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ELI

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By portrait artist Mario Panis

Marinduque Symbols

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Photo of Lt. Governor Juan Nieva, Bong Carrion's great grandfather. (right). Gov. Jose Antonio "Bong" Carrion (left); the Province of Marinduque Official Seal, "Battle of Pulang Lupa" logo.
Visit "SEARCHING FOR SYMBOLS" in YouTube.

"AWIT SA PULANG LUPA"

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"Awit sa Pulang Lupa"

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Teatro Balangaw Ensemble of Bangbang in a dance drama presentation of "Awit sa Pulang Lupa" written and directed by Eli Obligacion. Sung by the Capitol Choir.

Visit "Awit sa Pulang Lupa" on YouTube.

Joven Lilles and Gerry Jamilla as bikathon and marathon organizers

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Joven hands over cheque to winner. Gerry announcing the winners. "Team Boac" wins the Bikathon. Torrijos competitor is marathon winner.

Venue: Torrijos poblacion. "Battle of Pulang Lupa" commemoration 2007.

First Marinduque Bikathon

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BALANGAW REHEARSALS FOR PULANG LUPA

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Jonard plays Capt. Maximo Abad, the Pulang Lupa hero. Cast from Bangbang National High School. Last photo is the grand prize winner in the "On-the-Spot Painting Contest" held at the Pulang Lupa Shrine in Brgy. Bolo for elementary and high school students.

PULANG LUPA TRANSFORMATION

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From a shrine neglected to one considered sacred. Young students express their feelings through water color and latex on canvass. ANpavilion was constructed to 'highlight' the mural. The obelisk. The bushes cleared.

Pulang Lupa Battle Site in state of neglect

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How Pulang Lupa Historical Site looked in July 2007, two months before the event and its transformation. The cast of Teatro Balangaw rehearsing.

CARRION INAUGURAL STAGE

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Sworn into office by Supreme Court Associate Justice, Presbitero Velasco.

From left of photo: Gov. Carrion's sisters Puchi and Bing, Gov. Carrio and wife Armi, brother Ramon and Associate Justice Velasco.

CULTURAL NUMBERS

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Teatro Balangaw ensemble and Kalutang providing entertainment.

GOV. BONG CARRION'S INAUGURAL SPEECH

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MARINDUQUE'S NEW GOVERNOR, JOSE ANTONIO N. CARRION

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OLD MARA UNDUK PHOTO

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"Mara Unduk" (black & white photo) from an old local paper circa 1997. Photo was taken by Mar Cortez, and published in a local tourist brochure in the same year.

The original photo graced the walls of the Marinduque airport lounge together with other photos of Marinduque landscapes, industries and people. Then it disappeared.

After 10 years of disappearance, a huge tarpaulin print of said photograph resurfaced during the inauguration of Gov. Carrion - as backdrop for both sides of the stage. It was reproduced from the miniature copy (size as big as a thumprint), that saw print in the 1997 tourist brochure.

VIEW FROM MY WINDOW

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Nothin' is repeated, it changes everyday. The sunset views on the distant mountains of Mindoro island yonder...

BALANGAW captured by Dindo Asuncion

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"Hi Eli, Someday soon enough, Teatro Balangaw, (despite the bickerings - sana nga wala na by now) will find the proverbial pot at the end of the "rainbow." Chasing rainbows are for others; Teatro Balangaw will make its own.Noting the abscence (rather the lack of it) of graphics in your Blogsite, I made one for you, it may add balance to the fascinating ACTS portrayed by your text.To use or not to use this image, that is the question, is your call, of course. ;-) Goodluck!Dindo"

- e-mailed by Dindo 6 July 2007. I never had luck to open my previous blog for sometime now. And things have happened since 2006's "Pasyon-Dula" in Buenavista. May be time for a new blogsite, anyway. So I start with this one.

Longinus is Blind No More!

2005-01-25T15:29:00.004+08:00

Blood Line is King by Ramond C. Go

2005-01-24T15:34:00.001+08:00