This is
“The Quest for the Adarna”, REP’s Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA) season-ender for 2019. A musicale targeting the young kids but will also appeal to the
not so young (those who had Ibong Adarna in their schools). The play was
written in English for a much wider audience. This was Repertory Theater’s
first adaptation of a Filipino classic literature.
An
adventure themed play set in the magical kingdom of Berbania. Relieve the
timeless Filipino classic in a visually interactive theatrical play, done the
REP way. A very simple yet effective set, paired with some awesome music and
choreography and a powerhouse cast complete this highly engaging show.
Everyone
who have taken Ibong Adarna in high school can relate to the story of the royal
family and the three princes’ quest to capture Adarna to cure their father,
King Fernando’s illness. All eyes will be at the adventurous journey of the
Princes, through the colorful light show, great music and dance easy to absorb
lines that are well suited for the kids. The play also featured shadow play to well
represent some scenes that could be rather be hard to portray in some other
way.
The
audience has been part of the play with some interactive participation from
the actors, where the kids really enjoyed. The musicale will appeal to the
whole family composed of great casting, music, lyrics and kid-friendly lines
with contemporary dance, ballet and even rap.
Being
accompanied by three kids ages 11, 7 and 5, clearly, the show was successful in their
goal of entertaining young audiences by looking at the reactions of these kids
all throughout the run. They were all very attentive and listened to every
scene and took part in the interactive portion of the production. And they keep
talking about the show for a couple of days.
From the
words of Jada, an 11 year old, about her favorite character and take away from
the show: “My favorite character was Maria Blanca, the eldest Princess of the
Crystal Kingdom, she was independent and can do things by herself. The best
lesson of the story was the importance of forgiveness and forgiving others.”
As for
Jensen, a 7 year old, he said that Prince Juan was his favorite because he is
brave and saves his father. He learned being kind to others is very important.
‘Suitable
for children of all ages, The Quest for the Adarna is an original RTYA
Production under Creative Director Joy Virata, assisted by co-directors Jamie
Wilson and Naths Everett, with music by Rony Fortich, and book and lyrics by
Luna Griño-Inocian.’
The Quest
for the Adarna teaches life lessons about family, courage, forgiveness and love.
This was also mentioned by the wonderful director Jamie Wilson during the
introduction of the show.
You can
still watch “The Quest for the Adarna” at OnStage Greenbelt until January 26, 2020
because ‘WE WILL NOT TELL YOU THE PASSWORD’.
Text by Jacky Lenn Francisco
Photos by Leo Francisco
Comments