'The Princess and the Red Carp' opens Theater Down South season

'The Princess and the Red Carp' opens Theater Down South season
By Walter Ang
August 30, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Manila audiences are familiar with Michael Williams as one of the long-time resident actors of Repertory Philippines and one of the original West End cast members of "Miss Saigon."

Over the past few years, he's been doing more backstage work south of the metropolis?specifically, as artistic director of his own theater company, Theater Down South (TDS), based in Alabang.

TDS' 2010 season opens with "The Princess and the Red Carp," an original musical that hews close to one of the earliest versions of the Cinderella story.

With book, music and lyrics by company member Joonee Garcia, the show started off as a small-scale Chinese New Year show that The Podium mall commissioned from the group earlier this year. Favorable audience response spurred the company to expand it to its present full-length production.

"While we're most familiar with the retellings of Charles Perrault and the Brothers Grimm, the story exists in different forms in various cultures," notes Williams. "The oldest known recorded version of the story is Chinese in origin, written down by Tuan Ch'eng-shih in the middle of the ninth century AD."

The heroine, Yeh Hsien, triumphs over adversity with the help of a magical red carp who provides her with clothes, jewelry, and, most importantly, a pair of tiny golden slippers.

"The Princess and the Red Carp" opened last weekend and runs until Sept. 19.

Family-friendly
"TDS is on a mission to encourage the theatergoing habit, especially in the suburban communities," Williams says. "Smaller family-friendly shows such as this one are a great way to introduce new audiences to the experience."

Williams relishes his role offstage at TDS.

"I've always directed. I guess it's just not publicly known," he says. "It all evolved from when I started teaching in Rep's summer workshops."

He moved up from teaching assistant to handling his own classes. Every year, he'd helm his students' culminating showcase at the end of the workshop.

"It was like my on-the-job training!" he says with a laugh. "Also, being a theater actor all of my adult life, I have learned about directing by being directed, and by exposure to different directors."

He later started to direct for Rep (recently as assistant to Baby Barredo for "Sweeney Todd") as well as for Philippine Opera Company (for "Master Class").

Inspiration and advocacy
The workshops led to teaching opportunities for several schools, either as a moderator or a headmaster for theater groups. He's been teaching in De La Salle Zobel for several years, and this spurred him to aspire for a more community-wide endeavor.

"There is such a theater culture in that school. Where do these kids and kids like these go for their theater fix? Where do their folks go?" he says. "The south is so vast, and the journey to Manila can be a deterrent. Surely there are those who would rather stay in town and might appreciate being able to watch or participate in theater somewhere nearby if they could."

This insight, coupled with a desire to spread theater (inspired by the advocacy of his own mentors from Rep, namely Zeneida Amador and Baby Barredo), drove him to find like-minded individuals.

"Before we knew it, TDS has already been around for three years!"

Multi-disciplinary
Eschewing labels such as "community theater" or "regional theater," Williams points out that the group is focused on simply being a professional theater group. It has already mounted musical versions of "Treasure Island" and "Rapunzel," as well as Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream."

"I think the theater industry today is as vibrant as it has ever been," he says. "It's high time for TDS to exist."

Given his own journey from acting to other disciplines in theater, Williams encourages his actors to work in all areas of the theater, including stage management, marketing, teaching and writing.

"This not only gives them a wider understanding of their work and uncovers untapped potential, it also adds to their skills set, making them more employable in the long run," he says.

Season line-up
In October, TDS will stage the Tony Award-winning Stephen Sondheim musical farce "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum." Sondheim is the recipient of eight Tony Awards (including one for Lifetime Achievement); an Academy Award; a Pulitzer Prize; several Grammy Awards.

This production of "Forum" coincides with Sondheim's 80th birthday, which is being celebrated with a year of concerts and revivals worldwide.

The season will wrap with a restaging of TDS' version of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," this time using a pan-Asian motif. Taking inspiration from Chinese epic films and Japanese animé but keeping the original text, the group aims to make the Bard's work more accessible to a modern-day audience.

The show is available for school tours and includes a mobile lobby exhibit and post-show open forums to encourage student learning and interaction.

TDS stages its shows at Insular Life Theater, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang. Call 0916-6436976 and 5056380, visit www.theaterdownsouth.com.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100830-289472/The-Princess-and-the-Red-Carp-opens-Theater-Down-South-season

Paper aesthetics at Yuchengco Museum

Paper aesthetics
By Walter Ang
August 16, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Paper, and the many forms it can take, is celebrated in Yuchengco Musuem's current exhibit titled "Pumapapel: Art in Paper." The exhibit features the work of seven artists, artisans, and designers who explore paper in a range of expression.

The exhibit is prologued in the interior of the elevator: the walls are covered in cross-sections of paper pads. When the doors open on the third floor, visitors are welcomed by an explosion of paper stones hanging in mid-air.

The installation, "Suspended Garden," was created by Tes Pasola and Tony Gonzales. Arranged in a circular pattern anchored by a mat of rolled up newspapers, guests are encouraged to walk through a swath in the middle of the dangling stones and to lie down on the mat to view the work from the floor.

This composition allows for other vantage points (say, looking down at it from the fourth floor balcony or circling it from the sides) and is a wonderful endeavor that plays with texture, shape, perspective, scale and mass, given its realistic looking stones that float just so, its nylon strings that create the illusion of one rigid column, and the play of small elements that comprise the immense whole.

Different characteristics
Pasola repeats the installation's convention of using detailed rudiments to build a larger scaled piece in her exhibited works. Affiliated with Movement 8, the Filipino design advocacy group, and a consistent Katha Award winner, she showcases the density of paper with broad cross-sections of tightly coiled paper strips.

Gonzales, on the other hand, mirrors the installation's aspect of shape and form though paper infused with leaves, wires and seeds, then molded into wide sheets with funneled eruptions.

The couple has been working as paper artists and paper-based product designers for decades. When approached by the museum to exhibit, they open the floor for other artists to join them.

Printmaker Pandy Aviado, a pioneer in the use and production of handmade paper in art, has collages that call to mind decoupage.

Japanese designer and papermaker Wataru Sakuma plays up the fibrous element of paper by crisscrossing pulp strands (no cutting involved) that have dried into delicate-looking spiderwebs, beehives and a street map of Manila.

The works refuse to conform to the idea that paper is something that has to be flat or whole.

Sakuma has an installation, "Storm," that uses floor-to-ceiling sheets of hole-ridden paper against a light source to showcase the material's ephemeral nature.

Sculptor Impy Pilapil, who often works with stone, stainless steel, and glass, captures motion and volume with pleated strips of colored paper positioned in curves and waves.

Joey Cobcobo combines his passions in painting, printmaking and woodcarving to create a series of paper bowls titled "Sungkaan."

Utilitarian
Art can also be useful, the exhibit seems to declare. After all, the artistic use of fibers from abaca, salago, cogon and raffia has made Philippine-made paper unique, particularly in paper crafts, Christmas decor, gifts, and novelties for the global market.

As it turns out, fabric can also be created from handmade paper threads. Master papermaker Asao Shimura has assembled samples of the fabric called shifu (via dyed kimonos and scarves) as well as the implements involved in making it. Books no bigger than the palm of your hand are also on display from this miniature book artist who makes paper out of piña fiber.

Also on exhibit are limited edition calendars created by Gonzales and Pasola with German designer and artist Inge Brune for the German gifts and home accessories company Hartmut Rader Wohnzubehor GmbH & Co. The latest calendar, "Spirit of Paper," earned a gold prize at the 60th International Calendar Show in Stuttgart, Germany earlier this year.

Paper can also be used as medium of/for instruction. Students from the School of Fashion and the Arts taking up advanced draping under the mentorship of Iskra Orendain have created couture using paper in silhouettes that range from Victorian England to Old World Filipino.

The exhibit ends with another interactive component, "Paper Play," where visitors can tap into their inner artist and create their own paper art.

To complement the exhibit, the museum will offer a series of public programs such as workshops and family art activities. Topics include paper crafts for people of all ages, handmade papermaking, and international design trends in paper.

"Pumapapel: Art in Paper" runs until November 6, 2010. Yuchengco Musuem is at RCBC Plaza, Ayala cor. Buendia Avenues, Makati City. Call 889-1234 or visit www.yuchengcomuseum.org.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100816-286976/Paper-aesthetics

Jon Santos is Irma Vep -this time, not an impersonation

Jon Santos is Irma Vep -this time, not an impersonation
By Walter Ang
August 16, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Jon Santos is known for his standup satire shows that highlight his impersonations of popular figures. With a track record of nineteen years, he has a trove of characters under his belt like Ate Vi, Basana Roces, Armida Sigyon-Makareyna, Sherap Espada, Shawie, Sen. Meeryam, just to name a few.

He will once again attack multiple roles in a single show, but this time, no impersonations. He is currently in rehearsals for Marie Eugenie Theater of the Assumption (Metta)'s restaging of "The Mystery of Irma Vep." One of Off-Broadway's longest running shows, the comedy is by Charles Ludlam, an American actor, director and playwright who founded the Ridiculous Theatrical Company in New York City.

The play involves only two performers (either always two actresses or two actors) with four roles each, including a werewolf, a lord and a lady, a maid and a farmhand. "It really is very, very demanding on a performer," Santos says. "Especially with the accents and the running and the costume changes and a little bit of singing, too."

Theater
Before his entry into the stand-up comedy circuit, Santos started out doing theater work with UP Repertory Company under the leadership of Behn Cervantes. After college, he joined Tessie Tomas and Willie Nepomuceno, his idols, in the rounds of political satire shows. "My journey with the UP Theater community extended even after graduation because Willie and Tessie were both from UP and they both also had a love for theater and both also had theater backgrounds," he says.

He was last seen performing in a play for Atlantis Production's Dogeaters. In between his shows and return forays to theater, he once ran a comedy club that featured improv group Philippine Playhouse, whose founder, Ana Valdes-Lim, is Metta's artistic director. Mutual respect and admiration for each other's work has resulted in several collaborations.

Valdes-Lim got Santos to join Irma Vep in its first staging last year. "I was very honored to have been considered qualified and I immediately jumped on the chance to join," Santos says.

The play was chosen partly to service the college's Theater Arts and Media Education program. "The play is technically difficult to do, and it is an acting piece for actors," says Valdes-Lim. "We educate our students and audiences about the importance of having challenging technical and artistic productions. What better way to learn than from difficult pieces?"

Preparation
For the play, Santos is partnered with Philippine Playhouse member JV Katipunan. "Both are naturals," says Valdes-Lim. "Although both are mimics, they had to create brand new characters from scratch without copying."

While many people assume that his satire shows are mostly adlibbed, Santos reveals that the bulk of his shows are "planned, rehearsed, choreographed and directed." He knows he's done a good job when people think his scripted lines are adlibs. "The adlibs are actually planned and structured!" he says.

His pride lies in giving audiences "fully scripted shows" and he actually finds it "very, very hard not to have a full outline and set of scripts and a guide for any performance." As such, he is no stranger to the rigors of preparing for a play as taxing as this one.

In fact, the process suits his style just fine. "I am the eternal rehearsalist and I like to prepare and prepare and prepare," he says.

Santos notes that doing Irma Vep is a "welcome return to doing theater in a school setting under the supervision of teachers?professionals who have the perspective, the patience, and the discipline and the knowledge that I welcome in my work."

"I like this constant return to the academic setting so I'm always back in a workshop type of situation," he says. "I'm always stretched a little bit. I'm always reminded that certain good habits have to be worked on all over again -- with the voice, the body, with dance, with singing, and, most importantly, with working with a team."

The Mystery of Irma Vep runs Aug. 28, Sept. 4 and Sept. 11, 2010 with 2pm and 7pm shows at San Lorenzo Blackbox Theater, Assumption College, Makati City. The show comes with a Lecture Demonstration by Ana Valdes-Lim on "Rehearsal Techniques" for Directors and Teachers, a question-and-answer forum with the actors, and a backstage tour. Call 817-0757 loc. 1161 to 1163 or 894-2681.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100816-286973/Jon-Santos-is-Irma-Vep--this-time-not-an-impersonation

Edades gets auctioned, inspires building

Edades gets auctioned, inspires building
By Walter Ang
July 19, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Seven out of ten works by National Artist Victorio C. Edades, considered as the Father of Philippine Modern Art, were sold at a recent auction organized by property developer Rockwell Land and carried out by the auction house Salcedo Auctions.

The 70% clearance rate is at par with successful auctions conducted by international auction houses Sotheby's and Christie's. The auction was a first-of-its-kind in the country where all the works up for bid were by one artist.

The catalogue cover piece, Sunburst, sold for P1,077,680 to a corporate collection. The 1971 oil on canvas measuring 57.1 x 73 cm shows the full range of the artist's painterly skill in the post-Impressionist style.

The work that achieved the highest price increase was the back-to-back 29.8 x 43.2 cm 1981 pen-and-ink drawing Seated Nude Female and Nude Female which achieved P151,840?more than double the pre-sale estimate of P60,000. This piece was purchased by a private collector.

Rockwell Land hosted an exhibit of the works curated by Norma Crisologo-Liongoren prior to the auction. Both events were the developer's tribute to the man after whom its latest project is named after: Edades Tower and Garden Villas.

Naming the development after Edades follows Rockwell Land's convention of naming previous neighboring developments after National Artists in Visual Arts like abstractionist Jose Joya and transparent cubism proponent Vicente Manansala.

In its attempt to be as revolutionary as its namesake as well as acknowledging the master's interest in gardening and horticulture, the development aims to redefine urban living by incorporating space for greenery into its design.

Located in Rockwell Center, Makati City, this 50-storey residential tower is the first of four planned residential towers within Rockwell Land's master-planned 15.5-hectares. The defining feature of this development, designed by architecture firm Pimentel Rodriguez Simbulan and Partners, is the inclusion of thirty Garden Villas that will form a cluster of two-storey units, similar to townhomes, that extend from the main Edades Tower. Each of these villas comes with lawn areas.

The tower will include flat units, lofts and z-lofts (a concept pioneered by the developers that allows for two different views of the cityscape from a single zigzag-shaped unit that spans the entire width of the building) starting at 33 sqm up to 143 sqm. Certain lofts in the tower will have their own garden decks as well, creating visual breaks along the tower's height.

Aside from landscaped pocket gardens, amenities on the podium floor will include a lap pool, a fully-equipped and state-of-the art gym, full-service function rooms and a business center. The Edades Tower and Garden Villas will have an exclusive tunnel access to the Power Plant Mall as well as a central piazza to house dining establishments.

Call Rockwell Land at 793-0088.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100719-281878/Edades-gets-auctioned-inspires-building

Pretty, pampered and picture perfect at Organic Rituals Spa

Pretty, pampered and picture perfect
By Walter Ang
July 19, 2010
Manila Bulletin

When Nikki Angangco was pregnant, she still wanted to look pretty and be pampered. Her search for a nail polish that would be safe enough for pregnant women to use soon gave way to another kind of birth. Angangco teamed up with Katrina Armamento, a friend from college, and established Organic Rituals Spa.

Tucked into the mezzanine of a building in Greenhills, "More than just a regular spa, it's a lifestyle of environmental consciousness," Angangco says. "We believe beauty should be in harmony with nature at all times. We offer a broad range of soothing earth-friendly services."

To this end, Organic Rituals uses natural and organic essential oils, soaks, scrubs and lotions in their massage and body treatments. Even the aroma oils used in the reed diffusers in their treatment areas are all natural.

Vegan and non-toxic
For better looking and hydrated hands and feet, Organic Rituals uses only vegan and non-toxic nail polishes for their manicures and pedicures.

They carry the Zoya line which does not contain toluene, camphor, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate?chemicals that are harmful to the body. And, yes, this brand is safe enough for pregnant women to wear. They also carry the Sparituals line which uses organic vegan ingredients and are naturally colored and free of synthetic dyes.

Clients have a variety of choices for colors that range from sheers and pastels to dark, vampy tones, in matte and glossy finishes. They also get to bring home the single-use mani-pedi implements for their own personal use.

Waist loss
The spa has a "Waist-Loss" program that promises a loss of up to three inches off the waist while reducing body fat and weight, banishing belly bloat and polishing dull skin.

The spa owners commissioned this exclusive detox program from a US-certified fitness nutritionist and weight loss specialist. The program is comprised of a week-long diet that culminates with a whole day at the spa to relax and rejuvenate the body.

For four to six days, clients go through a nutritionally balanced, additive-free and hypoallergenic diet plan filled with foods rich in phytonutrients (to aid in flushing out toxins) and antioxidants (to reduce inflammation and bloating).

"Then you escape for a whole day at Organic Rituals where you are lavished with detoxifying and slimming body treatments while being served yummy and nutritious meals and drinks in between treatments," Armamento says. "Isn't that a great way to lose weight?"

Science-based
The day begins with a detox steam in a personal mini-tent that leaves the arms free for reading magazines or even surfing the web using the spa's free wireless internet. A coffee scrub follows, where the scrub's caffeine and antioxidants help slim and detoxify the body while exfoliating the skin.

A Puff Buster Facial is followed by a hot shower using the spa's organic shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Then, to stimulate the liver and gall bladder to release toxins, the Belly Buster Coffee Enema is performed. "The caffeine stimulates your intestines to contract and loosen any waste that's accumulated along the walls of the colon," says Angangco.

Concluding the series of treatments is their Bloat Banishing Massage, a lymphatic drain massage that stimulates the lymphatic system into eliminating metabolic waste products, excess fluid and bacteria.

"Clients usually take the `waist-loss' program prior to a big occasion like a wedding or a photo shoot or any public appearance for a special event," she adds. "But anyone can do it any time just to detox. It can also be used to jumpstart a weight-loss program or break a weight-loss plateau."

Sparty
For those inclined to just drop in for a quick escape from the stress of daily life, the spa's most popular massage is its signature Dream Weaver massage. It combines four styles and disciplines: Swedish, shiatsu, Hawaiian lomi-lomi, and sports massage.

"Our nail technicians and certified massage therapists follow international spa standards and procedures," Armamento says. "They are well-educated in analyzing skin and nail conditions and will recommend the best treatment fit for each client."

Of course, it's more fun to get pampered when friends or family are doing it together, which is why the spa offers sparties in its spacious living room setting. The high white walls provide an expansive, airy atmosphere while several oversized specially-designed couches, lounges and ottomans anchor the room. Three body massage cubicles maintain privacy with swathes of ceiling-to-floor gold curtains.

The sparty packages includes three hours exclusive use of the spa, 20 nail spa and massage treatments, souvenir gift items for all guests, as well as food prepared by The Sexy Chef, the catering service run by singer Rachel Alejandro and her sister Chef Barni.

There are four different themes to choose from. The Zen package features food such as California maki while the Oriental package includes Shanghai chicken meatballs. Veggies with hummus dip are served for the Mediterranean package, while the Continental package serves healthy mini-burgers.

Organic Rituals Spa is at Atlanta Centre, 31 Annapolis St., Greenhills. Call 661-3101.

Also published online:
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/267618/pretty-pampered-and-picture-perfect

Rizal's sarsuwela (zarzuela) gets a modern reboot

Rizal's sarsuwela (zarzuela) gets a modern reboot
By Walter Ang
July 5, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

As part of the celebration of Pio Valenzuela Day (the patriot for whom Valenzuela City is named), a sarsuwela written by Rizal more than a century ago will get a modernized retelling via a "three-in-one" show combining elements of a concert, a dance show and a play.

Reincarnated as a rock musical titled "Sa Tabi Ng Ilog Pasig," it will be staged by the Valenzuela City Center for the Performing Arts.

Director Andrei Tiangco updates Rizal's "Junto Al Pasig" (Beside the Pasig) with contemporary music and alternative rock composed by award-winning musical director Jesse Lucas and a combination of hip-hop and contemporary dance by choreographer Arnie Umayam.

This lesser known work of Rizal was written before he crafted his more famous novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo."

His one-act sarzuela was written in Spanish while he was a student at University of Santo Tomas and was staged at the Ateneo Municipal de Manila for the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception in 1880.

Philippine Educational Theater Association staged a Tagalog version in 1974 and National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin did an English translation in 1976. VCCPA's version uses a translation by librettist and production designer Jose Jeffrey Camanag.

The production will also utilize video and image projections designed by award-winning visual artist Nasser Lubay (2nd place, Celeste Prize 2009, Berlin Germany and a selected artist for Animamix International Biennial 2009).

Relate
The group had done a children's musical a few years ago and wanted to create a work for high school and college audiences.

Artistic director Roeder Camanag came across Rizal's sarzuela and wanted to stage it as a dance musical. "I wanted to do it along the lines of `Rama Hari' and `Tales of the Manuvu' by Ballet Philippines," he says.

"Students and even teachers might possibly be tired of or intimidated by Noli and Fili," he notes. The material became an opportunity for the group to introduce audiences to Rizal's other works.

"I strongly believe that students should really learn and understand Rizal because he is still very much relevant. His views and ideals can still help us understand ourselves and help us in the healing of our nation."

At the same time, "We always want to create imaginative and entertaining supplements to the formal learning provided by learning institutions, at the same time, develop the talents of budding performers and theater practitioners in Valenzuela City," he notes.

Therefore, there was a deliberate effort to make it accessible to today's audiences. Aside from the staging elements, "We tweaked the story a little to avoid confusing issues and to tighten the dialogue," he says. "But we're still 95 percent faithful to the original text and to the message of the story."

"We want students to be able to relate to the material. We want to them to open their eyes to the realities that they will soon be the leaders of this country and their political beliefs shall give shape to the future of this country."

"Sa Tabi Ng Ilog Pasig" follows the adventures of a young boy named Leonido, who, while waiting for the fluvial procession of the Virgin of Antipolo, has a one-on-one confrontation with the Devil dressed as a Diwita, an ancient Filipino God who attacks and questions Leonido's Christian faith.

"The story focuses on breaking the simplistic view that the world is black and white, where good is always good and evil is eternally bound to be bad," Camanag says. "It questions the standards of good and evil in reference to the improvement of human conditions."

Edutainment
VCCPA was formed under the auspices of Valenzuela Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian in 2006. "We're now on our fifth season," says Camanag. "The group aims to foster new avenues where the city youth can productively channel their energies and experience the benefits of being part of the performing arts."

The group provides members with free extensive training in singing, dancing and acting and produces musical productions where members showcase their talents.

To date, VCCPA has successfully produced three major original Filipino musicals, namely: "Nom de Plum," a historical play about one of the heroic characters of the Philippine Revolution, Doctor Pio Valenzuela; "Ang Mga Awit Ng Ibong Adarna," a musical based on the famous Philippine korido; and "Sangdosenang Sapatos," a stage adapatation of the award-winning children's book by Dr. Luis Gatmaitan.

A dance-centric production also allows the group to showcase the variety of its talents. "Our past productions have all been musicals. This production allows our strong dancers to take the frontline," he says.

"Our artistic direction and thrust is focused mainly on developing productions that are not only entertaining but educational as well," he adds. "Our productions are geared towards providing schools and students in all levels with innovative learning aids, positive awareness of the arts and creative experiences that elevate values and morals."

The world premiere of "Sa Tabi Ng Ilog Pasig" is on July 2, 2010 at Valenzuela City Center for the Performing Arts Theater, Poblacion II, Malinta Valenzuela City. The show will run for school year 2010-2011 and is open for bookings and showbuyers. Call 277-6100 or 277-6495 or email valenzuelavccpa@yahoo.com.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100705-279185/Rizals-zarzuela-gets-a-modern-reboot

Clara Ole's versatile vinaigrettes for healthy meals

Versatile vinaigrettes for healthy meals
By Walter Ang
July 2, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

"Vinaigrettes offer an alternative healthy way to enjoy your greens and other meals," said Nancy Hernandez, brand manager of Clara Ole Vinaigrettes, at the launch of their new line of products.

She explained that vinaigrette is a healthy option as it contains lower fat compared to dressings because vinaigrette's base is vinegar whereas dressings have egg yolks, cream and other ingredients that make it thick. What's more, the Clara Ole vinaigrettes have zero trans fat and zero cholesterol.

"Anything in moderation is healthier than overdoing it," Hernandez said. She suggests pouring vinaigrette onto a tablespoon first before drizzling it on greens. "This way, you are aware of and can control the amount. Two to three tablespoons per salad serving is okay."

Portion control is one of the usual behavioral modifications for weight management. Two tablespoons may not seem enough for people used to drenching their salads in dressing, but featured guest host Chef Carlo Miguel said that this amount can go a long way if you toss your salad with your hands to ensure that all the greens are coated.

"Just make sure that your hands are clean. This also ensures that you will avoid mashing the greens too roughly. Always pick the freshest vegetables and wash them properly using clean flowing water," he said.

Miguel is the latest winner of the reality TV show "Biggest Loser Asia." He used to weigh 300 pounds but lost a total of 120 pounds by cutting down on his food intake and exercising regularly. He now focuses on maintaining his weight and advocating the advantages of healthy eating.

Versatile
Clara Ole is manufactured by Sysu International and is actually named for the wife of the company's founder, Ruben Sysu. "Ole is a Spanish word that connotes celebration, good cheer and thanksgiving," Hernandez said.

"The brand Clara Ole calls to mind the spirit and passion of Spain and hopes to make every meal a sumptuous celebration while highlighting the importance of good health, that's why we came up with the Clara Ole Vinaigrettes."

She said that eating nutritious, highly fibrous and a well balanced meal combined with daily exercise is one sure way of attaining good health and protection from sicknesses and diseases. "It's also beneficial to your emotional and psychological wellbeing to enjoy simple encounters, like having meals, with family and friends," she added.

For family members who aren't keen on greens, Hernandez pointed out the versatility of the Clara Ole vinaigrettes. "They don't have to be used only for salads, you can use them as dips or for cooking meals, too," she said, while advocating steamed, grilled, baked or barbecued meals instead of fried food. (See sidebar for sample recipe.)

Variants
The "My, my Parmesan!" variant is made with parmesan cheese and garden-fresh herbs. "It has a cheesy-tangy taste," she said. "Besides using it with crisp, fresh vegetables, you can drizzle it over baked chicken and potatoes. It can also serve as the perfect dip for chips and it delicately complements soft Italian bread."

Hernandez recommended using the "Pesto Please!" variant to add flavor to grilled or baked seafood or chicken. "You can add a deliciously nutty, peppery flavor with a hint of fruitiness to your meals," she said. For a quick refreshing salad for the humid weather, Hernandez recommends using this variant with tomato and mozzarella slices with chopped fresh basil.

Pinoys love sweet dressings for their salads and will most likely enjoy the "Orange you Glad!" and "Mango Mio!" variants.

"The 'Orange you Glad!' vinaigrette has a citrus freshness and tart-to-sweet flavor," she said. "For a deliciously exciting contrast of sweetness, saltiness and creaminess, mix this variant with cubes of feta, blue or gorgonzola cheese."

"The 'Mango Mio!' vinaigrette instantly gives your favorite vegetable, fruit, meat and seafood salads a tropical boost. It is also perfect when sprinkled over salsa," she added.

For a more Asian flair, Hernandez suggested the "Sesame Mucho!" variant. "It has a mix of nutty, salty and sweet, complemented by a hint of tanginess that can be used as a dip for steamed vegetables and grilled or steamed seafood," she said. "You can also add it to your barbecue marinade and instantly transform the taste to a distinctly oriental caramel flavor."

For more recipes, visit www.claraole.com or call 926-8852 or 926-8859.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/food/food/view/20100701-278463/Versatile-vinaigrettes-for-healthy-meals

Cougars just wanna have fun: Crystal Orogquieta and her dalliances with younger men

Cougars just wanna have fun
By WALTER ANG
July-August 2010 issue
Asian Dragon Magazine

As told to Walter Ang, 59 year old Crystal Oroquieta talks about her dalliances with younger men.

I'm 59 years old now and have been dating men younger than me for the past couple of years.

I was only 18 years old when I got married to a college friend. I had five kids by the time I was 25 years old. My husband was intelligent and handsome but lazy as hell. To put us both through college and to put all five of my children through private school, I did all sorts of jobs, mostly selling odds and ends, from longganisa to make-up.

After I gave birth, my body became more curvaceous, more voluptuous. A lot of men would flirt with me, but I was a devoted mother and wife. No hanky panky at that time in my life. After my children were all done with college, I finally separated from my husband after being together for twenty years. There was a deep sense of liberation.

Circumstances were such that I was raised by my half sister (from my father's first wife) until I was fifteen. She was a teacher and raised me in a very orderly and strict environment. I eventually moved in with my mother who was more lenient, but after a few years, I'd gotten married and was thrust into the obligations of motherhood.

You can see that a large portion of my life had always been regimented and I didn't really have time for enjoying myself.

Finally, I could do whatever I wanted and go out with whomever I chose. I don't approach them, they come up to me. My friendly nature makes me attractive to men. I treat everyone the same, whether you're a CEO from a rich subdivision or if you're a janitor from the slums. I talk to everybody!

I remember one of the earliest relationships I had with a younger man. I was in my early or mid 40s and he was in his late 20s. All the time we were together, he never told me he was married. Well, when I found out, that was the end of that.

I just play with them, it's all for fun. Overall, it's just lust, not love. But friendship is there. And affection, too. I'm human after all. It hasn't always been all roses; I get hurt, too. But I know my limits and I always reserve something for myself. Since I have no intentions of committing to anyone anymore, they usually end up leaving when they realize they'll never have me.

When I was 48, I dated an 18 year old who was forced to dance in a gay bar to make ends meet. He had to earn whatever he could to take care of his crippled father. I bought his father a wheelchair and my boyfriend was very grateful. I helped him get a job in Europe doing administrative work for some train station and he's now married and has a family of his own.

I never expect someone younger than me to be as financially capable as I am, so I occasionally help out my boyfriends. I'm very helpful by nature, so it doesn't bother me. In fact, all of them usually refuse my help. So I'm lucky that way, I don't end up with leeches.

When I was 52, I was with a man who was around 27 years old at the time. I had no idea that he was semi-famous. As it turned out, he had occasional stints on television and total strangers would greet him when we went out. I thought he was just a very friendly person.

This time, I was the one who was given money and gifts! He would never accept anything from me and would always ask me out to dinner. If he finished projects for television, he'd call me even in the middle of the night to invite me to join him for a snack or drink.

But really, it's never about the money. It's the companionship they're after.  Someone to talk to, someone to go watch a movie with, someone to have dinner with. I like to have fun, I enjoy going out, so why not me, right?

When I was 55, I dated a 25 year old who was a deadringer for Piolo Pascual. My friends teased me all the time, saying that I was dating a "celebrity." I would reply, "I don't date ugly men."

My relationships usually last from around six months to a year. Long term relationships? Never again!  But with this one, we were together for a few years. He really loved me, even estranging himself from his family because they didn't approve. He was getting too clingy and needy. He had a temper, too. I didn't need all of that so I ended it. He wrote me a very dramatic farewell letter. "I loved you more than my own life," it said.

I think I'm still recovering from that one, but there are no regrets. For now, I just go out by myself. I play golf and tennis, I go ballroom dancing. Till the next one comes along.

Nutritious and low glycemic index sugar made from coconuts

Nutritious and low glycemic index sugar made from coconuts
By Walter Ang
June 29, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Natural alternatives to sugar are on the rise given rising costs and health consciousness. The newest kid on the block is sugar made from coconuts.

Coconut sap, if distilled, turns into wine. If fermented, it turns into vinegar. To derive sugar and syrup, the sap or sweet toddy is boiled in an open container, then allowed to cool and used as a syrup or allowed to solidify into granules. "It has a sweetness that brings to mind the fresh white flesh of a young coconut," says Jenery Lim, president of Benevelle, the company that manufactures Benevita Organic Cocosugar and Coconectar.

"You can use cocosugar or coconectar for your coffee, tea or juice. You can even use it for food preparation or baking. The fine brown granules of cocosugar have a sweet nutty flavor. Coconectar has a thick honey-like consistency and is perfect for baking and for breakfast meals like pancakes," he says.

The health benefits are the strongest selling points. "It is also rich in potassium which makes it good for the heart, and it has higher amounts of nutrients compared to refined white sugar and brown sugar," he adds. Cocosugar contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, chlorine, magnesium, and sulfur.

Cocosugar also has glutamic acid, the most common stimulating neorotransmitter in the nervous system. "It plays a role in the normal function of the prostate gland in men," Lim says.

Slow burn
Lim's quest to provide natural and organic food to the public was borne out of a personal reason. "Diabetes runs in my family. My grandfather died from the complications of diabetes. I know for a fact that there's a lot of people craving for healthier alternatives to the artificial sweeteners flooding the market," he says.

Diabetes is a disease caused by both hereditary and environmental conditions. It's characterized by high blood sugar levels that are not processed effectively or efficiently by the body.

"In preventing and treating diabetes, it is important to control the intake of sugar. The glycemic index is one way to do that," Lim points out. Glycemic index (GI) is a measurement of how much the blood glucose rises after a food is eaten. Foods that break down quickly during digestion and release glucose rapidly into the bloodstream have a high GI; foods that break down slowly and release glucose gradually, have a low GI.

"GI of 55 or less is low, 56-69 is medium and 70 or more is high," he says. "Cane sugar has a GI of 63-73 and honey has 64. Cocosugar has has a low GI of 35, as tested by Food and Nutrition Research Institute, which makes it suitable for diabetics and the health-conscious alike."

He also notes that athletes and weight-watchers prefer to take foods with low GI as these types of foods fuel the body longer without a "sugar rush" and makes one feel full longer.

Good life
His company's name is inspired from the word "benevolence." "`Bene' means `good' and `velle' means `to wish.' That's our core value, to treat everyone with benevolence," he says. "Our cocosugar is under the brand "Benevita Organic Cocosugar." `Vita' means `life,' we want people who will use our coconut products to experience the good life in a healthy, all-natural way."

Lim's ethics extend to his farmers in General Santos City as well. "We practice fair trade and our partner farmers are compensated well. When people buy our products, they are helping improve the lives of communities in the countryside," he says.

Having observed the current practices in local production of coconut sugar and syrup, Lim insisted on the need for better production materials and equipment to ensure health and sanitation standards.

Bellevelle's processing plant uses all stainless steel equipment to prevent contamination and its partner farmers have to undergo training in organic farming and Good Manufacturing Practice principles before they are accredited.

Lim says he has done his homework so that he can proudly say, "Benevita coconut products are 100% natural, free from additives and artificial flavoring."

"We are BFAD-approved and we are certified organic by the Organic Certification Center of the Philippines," he says. "This just proves that our product is of international quality ? something we Filipinos can be proud of."

For details, call 711-1884 or visit www.benevelle.com.

Positive in, positive out: Philips health and wellness gadgets and appliances

Positive in, positive out: health and wellness gadgets and appliances
By Walter Ang
June 29, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

In computer programming, there is the concept of "garbage in, garbage out." This means if you input incorrect data into a program, obviously, the results won't be any good. This is an appropriate analogy for our own bodies and lives as well.

Of course, the opposite holds true. Philips launched several products in Boracay, in an event dubbed "Wellness in Paradise," to show how its diverse line of health and wellness electronic products can help Filipinos put more positive elements into their lives.

The line-up of products began with Philips Go Gear MP3 players. "It's important to have some time to yourself, either when you're relaxing at home or while going to work or when you're in a crowded area, if you're listening to your favorite music, it can give you a bit of an escape" said Victor Caindec, senior business development manager of Philips Consumer Lifestyle Philippines.

The Go Gear players come with Philips In-Ear Headphones that has rubber tubular earpieces that cuts out a surprising amount of ambient noise, courtesy of an angled acoustic design based on the anatomy of the human ear. The speaker tubes conform to individual ear canal shapes to deliver sound directly to the ears while creating a snug seal to block out noise. For comfort, the ear caps are made from ultra-soft silicon and have interchangeable sizes.

Relaxation in
As more and more urbanites join weekend fun runs and sporting events, the Philips InfraCare infrared lamp can be a handy home-based salve for sores and aches. "It comes with a 300 watt infrared halogen lamp to provide deep penetrating warmth to relieve muscular pains and stiff joints," said Caindec.

The comfortable warmth created by infrared light penetrates deep into the skin allowing muscles to loosen up and relax. The warmth also increases blood circulation, sending oxygen-rich blood to stressed or aching muscles.

The Infracare's angle can be adjusted to treat areas such as the shoulder and neck, the lower back, a thigh or an arm. It also comes with a digital timer to set your own personal treatment time.

Nutrition in
"Nutrition is one of the most important elements in keeping healthy," said Caindec as he showcased the Philips Rice Cooker with Artificial Intelligence and the Philips Aluminum Collection Blender.

The rice cooker has automatic cooking programs to control the right cooking temperature to better preserve freshness and nutrition. The extra-thick non-stick inner pot ensures even results and prevents burned rice at the bottom. It comes with a timer for busy moms who can preset the rice to start cooking while they're on their way home from work.

Singles will appreciate the cooker's dedicated program for cooking small portions while parents whose children are leaving for college in a few weeks might want to think about giving them this cooker since it comes with preset programs for congees, stews, and, surprise, cakes!

The blender features a 750 watt motor, which can handle fruits and vegetables to ice, and a multi-speed function that allows users to blend, crush and cut to almost any consistency they want.

"It has a filter to separate seeds and pips and a special smoothie function for homemade smoothies. It's cheaper to buy your own fruits and other ingredients and you can control the amount of sugar or syrup you add into your concoctions," he says. "You can even add alcohol to your drinks occasionally," he adds with a laugh.

Inner and outer glow
Music for better disposition, relaxed muscles for fluid movement, and good food for better nutrition: a healthy body will radiate an outer glow. But it doesn't hurt to get a little help when it comes to personal grooming.

For the ladies, Philips has the Ladyshave Body Contour electric shaver that closely follows the curves of the body, "allowing you to shave and trim to perfection on even the most sensitive areas without running the risk of cuts and nicks." It has a bikini trim attachment and can be used dry or wet in the shower.

For gentlemen (and ladies who need gift ideas for the men in their lives), there is the Philips Arcitec electric shaver. It has three independently flexing heads that swivel to "ensure optimum skin contact in curved areas like the neck." This shaver can also be used dry and wet.

"We want Filipinos to know that Philips provides the best electronic products for your lifestyle and for your health and wellness," said Caindec. "It's all about bringing comfort, convenience and pleasure to the lives of our customers. We want to show how Philips can add to the enjoyment of one's life."

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/wellness/wellness/view/20100629-278079/Positive-in-positive-out-Health--and-wellness-gadgets-and-appliances

Red candle launch supports anti-AIDS campaign

Red candle launch supports anti-AIDS campaign
By Walter Ang
June 25, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

The simple act of buying a candle can let you help eliminate AIDS in Africa. Diptyque, known for its line of more than 50 scented candles, has teamed up with Product Red, a charity marketing movement that enables its partners to donate profits toward funds for stemming the spread of AIDs in Africa.

Rock musician Bono (who is also a Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur and a Knight of the British Empire) created Product Red together with Bobby Shriver, nephew of former US President John F. Kennedy and brother of California first lady Maria Shriver, in order to "make it easy for people in the shopping malls ? to get AIDS drugs to Africans who can't afford them."

Companies like Apple, Gap, Converse, Dell, Starbucks and Nike, among others, partner with Product Red to develop a specially co-branded product. A portion of the profits from these partner products are then donated to The Global Fund, an international financing institution that supports prevention, treatment and care programs against AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.

Over five million people have already benefited from Red since it was founded in 2006.

Manila
The world is getting smaller everyday and shoppers in Manila can be part of the Red campaign. Rustan's, the exclusive distributor of Diptyque, launched the Diptyque Red special edition candle at the Ayala Musuem.

Ten percent of all sales of the special edition candle is donated to support The Global Fund's "Born HIV Free" campaign?with a single goal where no child is born with HIV by 2015. The campaign was originated by former model and current First Lady of France Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, a Global Fund Ambassador.

Dina Tantoco, Rustan's Marketing Communications Head, addressed invited guests. "Rustan's cares ?[and] it is our hope that you will find it among your caring selves to join us and be with us for this noble cause as well," she said.

The launch was supported by The Peninsula Manila Hotel, Wine Story and the French Embassy, highlighted by an exclusive performance from the Eolipile French Contemporary Dance Company.

Guests included Silvana Fornari, wife of Italian Ambassador to the Philippines; Guillermo Luz, executive vice president of the Ayala Foundation; jewelry designer Roberto Coin, entrepreneur and socio-civic leader Lizzie Zobel, Michael Huang, assistant to the president of Rustan's; TV personality Kim Atienza and his wife Fely; and fashion designer Lulu Tan-Gan together with the founder and artistic director of Eolipile French Contemporary Dance Company Lin Yuan Shang.

Special edition
The special edition candle is made from rooibos and other vanilla varieties, all harvested through fair trade practices, and comes packaged in an African wax print design.

The rooibos provides "a fresh aroma with balanced notes of virginia tobacco, mate (a tea made from yerba mate leaves) and red fruits," while Indian vanilla adds "hints of grass and hay-like quality." Madagascar Vanilla rounds out the scent with "sensual undertones of wood and balsam."

Diptyque actually started out as a fabric store in France in 1961, but when three owners (painter Desmond Knox-Leet, set designer Yves Coueslant, and Christiane Gautrot, who worked in architecture at the time) started offering perfumed colored candles in 1963, it steered the brand towards another path. They launched their line of fragrances five years later.

Purchase of Diptyque Red special edition candles will fund grants that serve programs in Ghana, Lesotho, Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland, and Zambia. Sixty seven percent of all people with HIV live in Africa yet the continent is home to just 10% of the world's population. The disease is the leading cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa. The programs include interventions targeting women and children such as education, HIV testing, counseling, medication and the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmissions.

Diptyque Red special edition candles are exclusively available at Rustan's Makati Grandmall, Alabang Town Center, Shangri-la Plaza.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/fashionandbeauty/fashionandbeauty/view/20100625-277371/Red-candle-launch-supports-anti-AIDS-campaign

Wifibody Independent Contemporary Dance Festival returns to roots

Wifibody Independent Contemporary Dance Festival returns to roots
By Walter Ang
June 21, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

For this year's Wifibody Independent Contemporary Dance Festival, "it's back to basics, back to remembering, finding the ground once again after the numerous outward flights," says festival director Myra Beltran.

The Wifibody festival features dance shows in various venues as well as photo and video exhibitions, plenaries and workshops that all focus on dance or choreography. The name of the festival was borne out of a desire to engage the public, especially younger audiences weaned in a digital age. "Wifibody allows everyone to access contemporary dance," she says.

This year's theme is "Body and Memory." "It is when the body remembers that one proceeds to create. And when the body remembers, there is dance," notes Beltran. "This festival allows us to `remember' how we grew, how we got to where we are, and trace where we are going."

The festival has been has been organized annually since 2006 by Contemporary Dance Network Philippines. The group, currently chaired by Angel Lawenko-Baguilat, is composed of contemporary dance companies, artists, school-based organizations, critics and institutions, whose goal is to promote contemporary dance in the Philippines.

Memory
"We go back to or `remember' the idea that contemporary dance was borne out of the struggle of undaunted spirits facing great odds, equipped only with the vision to make dance accessible to all," says Beltran.

"In this field, there have been innovations in aesthetics, training and producing work ? thus, contemporary dance not only thrives in the Philippines today, it is a sector that is dynamic and exciting!"

In line with honoring the past and its roots, a photo exhibit with video portraits celebrates ten choreographers who have been influential in the crafting and direction of the festival. "We celebrate this sense of history inherent to the festival. As artists, it's important we acknowledge the influences that helped us grow," she says.

Beltran points out that the festival is distinguished by its innovative use of traditional spaces and its exploration of non-traditional spaces. In this vein, this year's festival will be held in three different venues: Dance Forum Space in Quezon City, the Greenbelt Malls in Makati City, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in Pasay City.

Choreography
The major components of the festival include IndepenDance, one of the major shows featuring new choreographic work. This year, some of the artists participating in IndepenDance include
Ava Maureen Villanueva and Rhosam Prudenciado Jr. of Airdance, Gerardo Francisco of Ballet Manila, Herbert Alvarez of U.P. Dance Company, and Christine Crame of Seven Contemporary Dance Company.

As part of the festival's thrust to be an incubator for fresh talent, there is the New Choreographers Competition, which allows up-and-coming regional choreographers and dancers who have not yet created any major full-length work to premiere solos or duets.

To reinforce the focus on choreography, no set pieces are allowed to enable audiences and judges to experience the emphasis on "the level of dance research in theme, aesthetics, process and its innovative application." The awards for this competition will be supported in part by the CCP and the Japan Foundation.

The Emerging Talent Showcase showcases young talents from various independent groups and school-based groups. This year, participating groups include Sofia Zobel Elizalde's Steps Dance Studio, Shirley Halili-Cruz's Quezon City Ballet, Teatro Baile de Cavite, Carmona Dance Group, Marikina Ballet, Sanhiyas Pangkat Mananayaw, UP Pep Squad and BP Kidz.

On site and online
This year's Uncensored Bodies Dance Video Competition invades cyberspace by allowing entries to be posted on Youtube.com and allowing online voting. The competition encourages the use of dance in film or the creation of film specifically for dance. "This competition is not about video documentation of live performances. It is consciously a venue for filmmakers or dancers who merge the use of video with or in dance and vice-versa," Beltran says.

"We wish to extend the language of dance in the manner that only the filmic language and image can achieve. We will put emphasis on the videos that most articulate the concerns of contemporary dance."

To allow broader appreciation for dance, the people who are and can be involved in it, and the spaces where dance can be experienced, the festival also features Dance-on-Site, a series of performances that are created for non-stage venues or areas. Usually held at the ramp or driveway in front of the CCP Main Theater lobby, Dance-on-Site normally concludes the festival with a free public dance party.

Wifibody Independent Contemporary Dance Festival 5 runs June 25-27 at Greenbelt Ayala Malls, June 26-27 at Dance Forum Space and culminates on July 2-4 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Festival passes, day passes and student/senior discounts available. For details, visit www.contempodancenetphil.org or call 0917-576-0212.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100621-276662/Contemporary-dance-festival-returns-to-roots

Painting by numbers with Marlon Magbanua

Painting by numbers
By Walter Ang
June 21, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Marlon Magbanua will hold a painting exhibit with a video and sound installation at White Wall Gallery titled "Rooms" where he explores notions of how color, sound and movement can be quantified and then, turning the idea on its head, qualified into art.

The thirty-something artist almost sounds like a scientist or college professor when he explains the concept of his show. He has long held a theory wherein he believes "every color corresponds to a sound and vice-versa."

Magbanua points out that this idea is most apparent in computer software used to manipulate images and sounds. Musicians, DJs and recording engineers know there is math and numbers inherent in musical notes, pitch and octaves; they use numbers in mixing and editing sound. Advertising and publishing professionals are familiar with the number coding in control color hues and shades in computers and preparing colored inks for printing.

"Colors and sounds all have corresponding numbers. If you substitute a number value for every color and for every sound, you can find the equivalent sound for every color and vice-versa," he says.

This scheme came together for him when he stumbled across the works of Peter Meijer's work on "seeing with sounds." "Meijer created a program that helps blind people `see' what's in their environment using sound. His work inspired the concept of my show," says Magbanua.

Feelings
For this one-man show, his fifth, Magbanua will install a video camera "to capture all the elements of what's going on in the gallery and, in real time, a software program will translate movement into sound."

He adds, "The whole show is about the `experience' of being interpreted through sound and into my canvas." If the exhibit is beginning to sound like a technology showcase, don't be alarmed. Magbanua is all about the feelings intrinsic to his abstracts.

"My paintings are filled with emotions. I compare them to songs that were created and inspired by emotions," he says. It seems Magbanua has a lot of it going on right as he is working with canvasses that are bigger compared to his previous works.

"But size doesn't matter. What is important to me is the satisfaction after finishing each piece. It's like making love," he adds.

Discovery
His own love affair with painting came about as a culmination of years of self exploration. He loved to draw as a child. In college, when he occasionally cut classes, he'd visit galleries or hang out in Luneta Park to people watch and sketch.

Iloilo-born and Cavite-based, he worked briefly as a graphic artist and as a musician in several bands. "But I couldn't see myself in these lines of work," he says. "I tried to figure out who I am and what I really wanted to do. I found it in painting. With painting I'm able to combine my passion for music and what I've learned in graphic design."

Now that he's found what he's been looking for, he proclaims, "I have no intention of doing paintings just only to please other people for them to buy my works. I do what I want to do. The best part is, I'm happy."

He enjoys the discovery process of threshing out his concepts into his paintings. "My work doesn't fall into any particular genre. Maybe you can call it sound art but it's beyond music. There's no exact definition of sound art anyway," he says.

Nonetheless, he does not overanalyze the process. In his abstractions using acrylic, acrytex and graphite, Magbanua notes that his colors, strokes and volume of layers are all the result of his moods. "It's like composing a song," he says. "Songs have colors, you just have to feel it."

Breakthrough
There is no doubt that music plays an integral part in Magbanua's creative process. In most of his paintings, one notices a consistent motif that's almost a literal translation of sound in visual form: a parabola always seems to be present, a single arching black sound wave connecting swathes of colors. "The parabola is a visual sound. It pertains to a fast time signature of sound," he says.

It's a bit disarming to find out that he prefers to paint in silence. "I don't listen to music when I paint," he says. "I want it to be quiet because the music in my heart and mind is what I paint."

Given his varied passions and options for output, Magbanua feels that he might eventually explore multimedia art or new media art. "The discipline would be cross-disciplinary or multidisciplinary since I work with performance art, sound art and painting. I'm still searching for a software program that will give justice to my ideas," he says.

"For now, I enjoy painting. Maybe in time, when my concept is ripe and if I'm able to create art and combine it with a software program, I can make a breakthrough in science," he says with a wink. "I'll make a program that will decode a painting that actually contains a hidden password for a military operation."

"Rooms" opens on June 26. Whitewall Gallery is at 7467 Bagtikan Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City. Call 710-7439.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100621-276667/Painting--by-numbers

Hamilo Coast protects "Amazon of the Seas"

Hamilo Coast protects "Amazon of the Seas"
By Walter Ang
June 30, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last year, photographers Jürgen and Stella Freund embarked on an 18-month photojournalistic expedition throughout the Coral Triangle, six million square kilometers of ocean reputed to be the world's center of marine life, located from the Philippines through Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

The Coral Triangle is home to 600 out of 800 known corals and 2,700 types of fish, among other flora and fauna. The abundance of life is so high that the region has been called "the Amazon of the Seas."

Unfortunately, together with Indonesia, the Philippines hosts the world's most threatened coral reefs, with less than thirty percent in good condition. Overfishing, coral mining, sewage, chemical pollution, global warming and dynamite fishing continue to plague these marine ecosystems.

The Freunds took images with a variety of cameras from 35 mm to digital to "investigate the connectivity between the wildlife and peoples of the region, and the threats they face" and to document the conservation efforts of the organization World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), formerly known as World Wildlife Fund.

One of the areas they were able to visit was Nasugbu, Batangas, where Hamilo Coast is located. The Freunds arrived in Manila recently and their work was discussed at a presentation made by Hamilo Coast. The presentation focused on the steps this real estate development by SM Land has been taking to actively work with (instead of against) nature.

"Hamilo Coast encompasses more than ten natural coves and is envisioned as a network of communities with various types of living experiences, from exclusive residences to world-class resorts," said Tristan Dela Rosa, SM Land marketing and sales senior vice president. "It can be considered the first coastal residential community in the Philippines deliberately planned for ecological sustainability."

Resource regeneration
To wit, out of Hamilo Coast's total land area, only one-third or 1,800 hectares will be developed, leaving the rest of the property untouched and preserved.

SM Land worked with the local government to have three coves within Hamilo Coast declared as marine protected areas?legally managed and restricted for conservation purposes to reverse damage caused by illegal fishing methods and pollution.

"Pico de Loro Cove and Santelmo Cove are nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles or pawikans such as the Olive Ridley Turtles, one of the smallest of its kind in the world. Etayo Cove is a prime diving site," said Dela Rosa.

Over a hundred True Giant Clams have been planted along the coast to help re-propagate marine life. "Evidence suggests that biodiversity levels are on the rise, as reflected in the increased catch-rates of local fishermen," he said.

It has also partnered with WWF to monitor the property's ecological footprint?the amount of resources used in daily operations offset by the land's capacity for regeneration. "Hamilo Coast will be able to manage its impact on the ecological balance of the property so that guests can enjoy the area's natural splendour without damaging it," he said.

Vigilance
It has also engaged the surrounding communities by supporting several cooperatives in the area with up to 400 local residents as members.

The Kaagapay ng Mamamayan para sa Kalikasan cooperative handles landscaping and beach maintenance. "They've helped restore the damaged mangroves by planting mangrove seedlings, about 20,000 to date," said Dela Rosa.

Another cooperative, Samahan ng mga Mamalakaya ng Papaya, patrols the vast waters of Hamilo Coast to catch illegal fishing activities. "Since they started in 2001, illegal fishing in the area has declined. They've convinced many of the small fishermen who engaged in dynamite fishing to join their group instead," he said. The group also does coastal clean-up operations.

The efforts at ecosustainability and regeneration will not only benefit Hamilo Coast's future residents, but also protect a vital portion of the Coral Triangle. Batangas is actually situated in the Verde Passage of the Coral Triangle, the area with the most number of fish species in the world.

"The Verde Passage has once been described as the 'center of the center of marine biodiversity' given the density and concentration of its coral and underwater life compared to the rest of the Coral Triangle," said Dela Rosa. "This is part of the development's appeal: an opportunity to live in an expansive natural setting across coves that have mountain ranges, unending views of the South China Sea, and teeming marine and terrestrial life."

Given this kind of environment, he notes that it's but natural for Hamilo Coast to promote the protection of and interaction with nature. "We want the residents to engage in leisure programs based on land and sea activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, mountain trekking. We want to be a sanctuary for both nature and the humans so dependent on its riches."

For details on the Freund expedition, visit blogs.panda.org/coral_triangle. For details on Hamilo Coast, call 858-0333 or 819-1673 or visit www.hamilocoast.com. 

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/homeandentertaining/homeandentertaining/view/20100630-278288/Hamilo-Coast-protects-Amazon-of-the-Seas

Ten years of imaging instruction with Philippine Center for Creative Imaging

Ten years of imaging instruction
By Walter Ang
June 14, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Digital technology has become so integrated into photography, videography and graphic design that it's difficult to imagine working with these mediums without the use of computers and gadgets. But beyond the availability of powerful hardware and the intricate software that make these machines or gadgets run, the knowledge or ability to use these tools is actually the key to unlocking results.

The Philippine Center for Creative Imaging has been teaching Pinoys and foreigners alike how to use creative applications for print, web and multimedia to further personal hobbies and professional careers for the past ten years.

PCCI tags itself as "the country's premier digital arts training center," but there is no hubris here. After all, it's run by industry-recognized practitioners, has a complement of 50 available courses taught by a pool of more than 20 industry-certified instructors, and boasts of being the authorized training center of several global image and video manipulation software companies.

First
The training center was borne out of Mariano "Jun" Miranda's passion for digital arts. He's been the president, creative director and resident photographer of PixelMagic, a digital imaging studi, since 1996. That was the same year he founded the International Designers Network Club-Philippines with other digital artists, layout artists, graphic artists, and photographers.

"We became the first Filipino organization of digital artists who aim to promote the use of computers and different software as a new medium for visual art," he says. To fund its activities, the club would hold seminars with Miranda and other members like award-winning artist and Cocoon Magazine Art Director Guillermo "Ige" Ramos as speakers. Participants clamored for more and sparked an idea in Miranda.

"I'd been going to the US to study digital imaging and how to use software like Adobe Photoshop," says Miranda. "I fell in love with the concept and convinced the club's board members to open a computer training center in the Philippines." The club incorporated the Philippine Center for Creative Imaging with Miranda as the president and program director.

"From day one, I knew that for PCCI to succeed, it had to establish credibility in the market. Any Tom, Dick and Harry can teach Photoshop but are they recognized by Adobe?" he says. He promptly returned to the US to become the first Adobe Certified Expert and Adobe Certified Instructor in Photoshop and Lightroom in Asia. He also became a Certified Technical Trainer for the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance and Instruction and for the Computing Technology Industry Association.

Industry recognized
"Now we're celebrating not only our 10th anniversary as a computer training center but also as an Adobe Certified Training Center. We are the first ACTC in Southeast Asia," he says. PCCI has gone on to pass the requirements of other companies to become their certified training partner in the country. In 2003, PCCI became the first and only Apple Authorized Training Center in the country. In 2005, it also became the first and only Corel Training Partner in the Philippines. It's also the Epson Digital Learning Center. Canon has appointed PCCI to be its training partner for its cameras, printers, and scanners, as has Wacom for its tablets.

Miranda discerned that post-graduate training for professionals would have to be handled differently from college classrooms. Unlike college students, professionals bring their knowledge and experience to the classroom, which become the foundation for further learning. "Professionals relate and strengthen what they already know with new information. We use this instructor-led, participant-centered method of instruction at PCCI," he says.

"We tap practicing digital artists to become our instructors. Participants benefit from the instructors' real-world experience," he adds. PCCI's roster of instructors include filmmaker Adolfo Alix, Jr. and photographers Raymund Isaac and Patrick Uy. 3D animation instructor AJ Siytangco works for Industrial Light and Magic-Singapore; After Effects instructor Robert Quilao directed Dayo, the first Philippine all-digital full-length animated film; and Corel instructor Sonny Leon is recognized as one of the country's top Corel artists. "We also have Ed Yap, Managing Director of iMag magazine; Stanley Coloma, a multi-awarded multimedia designer; and Dopy Doplon, an award-winning book designer in our pool," he says.

Students have included the World Health Organization, ABS-CBN, GMA 7, Sykes, Aboitiz, 3M Philippines, Hallmark, Central Bank of the Philippines, Accenture, Supreme Court of the Philippines, the US and Australian embassies, Ayala Foundation, Bayantel and Bayer Philippines, among others.

Forecast
From its initial offering of ten courses, PCCI eventually added the entire offering of Adobe, to include video editing, animation and video effects, and web design. It has also added videography, cinematography, editing and 3D animation classes.

"Now our most popular courses are the photography courses. We are the only training center in the Philippines that offer 24 courses on photography," he says. "This includes food, jewelry, product, wedding, commercial studio, architectural, fashion, and even nude photography." It has even given a workshop on "techniques of creating art-like images that touch the heart and soul of others."

Miranda foresees the popularity of digital photography to continue for the rest of 21st century. He also dispels the notion that animation is a popular choice. "Contrary to initial expectations, the demand for animation courses have not picked up. Maybe because of the price of the software. The course itself is expensive. Plus, video editors earn more than animators."

In this vein and riding on the current interest in independent films, he predicts that "video-production and video editing will become popular since the new digital cameras are also equipped with HD video capability." "We plan to strengthen our video courses to offer `indie'courses and we're adding more courses that are not software-specific," he says.

As part of PCCI's 10th anniversary, the center plans to offer scholarships to four deserving individuals. "Our scholars will take all photography and Photoshop classes for free," he says. Miranda is still working on the components of the scholarship (like trying to wrangle free cameras for the scholars) and will announce the mechanics at a later date.

PCCI will hold its 10th Anniversary celebration on June 19, 5-7 p.m. at the 15th Graphic Expo and the Photo Video Expo at SMX Convention Center. Call 759-3087 or email 10years@pcci.com.ph.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100614-275443/10-years-of-imaging-instruction

Audie Gemora-all set for "Equus"

Audie Gemora-all set for "Equus"
By Walter Ang
May 31, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

The play "Equus" re-entered the public's awareness when it was revived on London's West End, and later on Broadway, a few years back with Daniel Radcliffe (otherwise known as The-actor-who-plays-Harry-Potter) as the lead character Alan Strang.

Also in the news was the fact that Radcliffe had to spend quite a bit of time onstage fully naked, as required by the role.

These are two major considerations that Audie Gemora is contending with as he prepares to direct this play for Repertory Philippines. He reckons that there will be people in Manila who will watch the show because of the Hollywood connection and of the nudity in it "but that's not what the play is about," he says.

The play, written by Peter Schaffer, is about a psychiatrist, Martin Dysart, who attempts to treat a young man, Strang, who has a pathological fascination with horses replete with religious and sexual overtones.

It premiered in 1973 in London and moved to Broadway, winning the Drama Desk Award Outstanding New Foreign Play, New York Drama Critics' Circle Award for Best Play and the Tony Award for Best Play.

Easy
Despite the material's sensitive topics, the staging it behooves, the unpredictability of how Manila audiences might react, and the challenge of finding an actor who's willing to accept the role of Strang, Gemora is calm and confident. He throws his shoulders back and says, "It's going to be easy."

Rep staged Equus in the late 70s with Leo Martinez as Strang and Jose Mari Avellana as Dysart. "Part of the decision to restage it this year was because of the awareness that the Radcliffe production had created," he says. "People are excited to see what the play is all about."

Rep artistic director Baby Barredo had invited Gemora to be part of the company's Arts Council, the group that selects the plays and musicals that are included in their season line-ups. "We threw around some ideas and this play came up, although I didn't even think they would seriously choose it."

At a casual get together earlier this year, not only did Barredo inform Gemora that the play was already in the line-up, she also assigned him to helm it. "At first I really didn't want to do it because the play is serious and heavy and I'm known more for directing musicals. But I didn't buckle."

Actors' director
He's read the text and points out that all the play needs to get off the ground is "good acting." "I consider myself an actors' director," notes this recipient of 2009 Philstage Gawad Buhay for Outstanding Male Lead Performance in a Musical (for Sweeny Todd).

Gemora has appeared in numerous productions, such as A Chorus Line, Evita, West Side Story, Amadeus, and Les Miserables for Repertory Philippines; Florante at Laura, El Filibusterismo, and Noli Me Tangere for Tanghalang Pilipino; and Joseph the Dreamer, and First Name for Trumpets.

Aside from being an actor and director for the stage, Gemora also does work for television (he's a judge on a TV talent show), is a recording artist, dancer, choreographer, host, and voice talent for commercials.

This interview was conducted after the auditions and Gemora is currently selecting the cast. He plans to cast a young actor close to the age of Strang to provide audiences with a fresh perspective. "I want the actor to work on instinct versus relying on a mannered approach to the role," he says. "I want someone without too much theater training so he will not `act' so much."

Context
Beyond the intention to cast strong actors to support the lead, Gemora plans to spend "hours and hours" with the cast to dissect the underyling truths and emotions of the text and contextualizing the psychiatric modes used in the story.

"This play is set a few years after the 60s, when there was a school of thought premised on the acceptability of insanity. People were asking `what is normal exactly?'" he says.

"In this day and age when we have children killing more than thirty people in their schools in one go, what Strang does in the play seems to pale in comparison. Audiences will wonder what the big deal is all about. So it's not about the case nor the boy per se."

Gemora points out that "contrary to what people think, the play is actually about the psychiatrist and how he sees all that's missing from his life when he encounters Strang's passion for his, albeit in a very weird form, `religion.'" "And that," he says "is as deep as it gets."

"Equus" runs July 9 to 25 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Ayala Mall. Call 887-0711, 887-0737 or 887-0742.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100531-272968/Audie-Gemora-all-set-for-Equus

Miguel Castro: He acts, he sings, he cuts paper

He acts, he sings, he cuts paper
By Walter Ang
May 24, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

For someone who was told for more than a decade that he couldn't sing, Miguel Castro has spent the last five years proving this notion wrong and has even set his sights on opera singing in the future.

After Castro decided to leave his bucolic childhood in Lipa behind to pursue higher studies in Manila, he soon had to choose between college and his growing interest for the performing arts.

The stage wooed him over from the classroom and he hasn't looked back since. Cutting his teeth with Gantimpala Theater Foundation, Castro started out developing his acting chops under the tutelage of theater pillars Tomy Abuel, Mia Gutierrez, and Ronnie Lazaro.

After doing straight plays for more than 15 years, Castro broke out as a singer in a big way, as the lead for the musical "St. Louis Loves Dem Filipinos" by Dulaang UP in 2005. "I've always loved singing since I started acting in 1989. But every time I auditioned for musicals, I would be told to stick to acting," he says with a laugh.

The validation being recognized for his talent and positive reviews spurred him to release a CD, cheekily titled (perhaps to prove detractors wrong) "Miguel Castro Sings." He eventually joined Armida Siguion Reyna's Aawitan Kita Productions, doing monthly live concerts.

Opera
In 2008, a friend texted him about an audition for someone who could sing "Bituing Marikit." "I went not knowing it was for the Philippine Opera Company," he says. "When I saw the name of the company, I wanted to back out. But the girl at the counter urged me to go ahead since I was already there."

Only two people passed that audition. He was accepted two days later and has been performing and touring with the company's subgroup "Harana" ever since.

"It's composed of eight classical singers doing Filipino Classics," he says. "I'm not an opera singer, but since I joined them, I've learned a lot just by being with them and observing them. I've been getting further voice training under Pablo and Camille Molina and Myrna Lopez. For now I'm in classical singing but opera is my new goal."

After a successful international show in the Netherlands last year, Harana will venture on its first Visayan Tour this month as part of the National Heritage Festival celebration. The show consists of six suites: the Igorot, Maria Clara, Rural, Folk, Muslim and the Contemporary, in a showcase of song, dance and drama.

Paper cutting
In between local and international tours with Harana, this second of ten siblings helps run his family's paper products business, distributing journals, stationeries, and craft products, some of which he designs himself.

His creativity with paper led him to discover paper cutting. "It's my latest adventure. I started cutting long before I even knew there was such an art form. All I know is that it's originally a traditional Chinese art form," he says. "These are expressions of my ever wandering thoughts and ever restless hands."

Although he'd exhibited masks he'd designed in the early 2000s, the year he joined Harana was also the year he debuted as a paper cutter in a group show in Arts Center, Mega Mall. "The theme was 'Society According to Brian Gorrell.' I made three images of `socialites' in Manila," he says.

Exhibit
His first one-man show was at Nine Gallery. Since then, he's been exhibited in Germany, New Caledonia and Sydney. Two of his works have even been bought by the Cultural Council of Noumea for permanent exhibition.

He was recently invited to exhibit in Tap Gallery, Sydney again for its Mardi Gras exhibit. "It was titled `Senses, Sensitivities, Sensualities,'" he says. "It celebrated gender, politics, and social awareness." He submitted a work titled "... and on the 8th day Society created Poverty" that eventually became part of the 2010 Amnesty International Art Exhibit in Sydney.

Castro uses a scalpel instead of scissors and creates works usually using single-piece, hand-cut paper sheets. The intricacy of his past works has been shown in cut-outs of human torsos that highlight the body's muscle striations and hair strands; and in cut-outs of landscapes with trees that feature furcating and curling tendrils and branches.

His past works have an undercurrent of forlornness about them. With enigmatic and evocative titles like "Vanity" and "Mo(u)rning," the cut-outs have a preoccupation with eyes: sometimes with longing or dejected gazes, sometimes disembodied, sometimes completely missing.

He imbues an earnest energy and thought process into his artwork. "Every exhibit I've ever done never had any specific theme. I sometimes deal with current issues but I usually just want to showcase paper cutting itself," he says. "What I offer is my skill in executing thought-provoking images."

Harana performs in SM City Cebu (May 18), Bohol Cultural Center (May 21), SM City Ilo-ilo (May 23), CAP Auditorium Antique (May 25), Capiz Gym (May 27), Puerta Princessa (May 29); call 892-8786. For details on Castro's exhibit of paper cuts at Avellana Gallery, opening on June 12, call 833-8357.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/artsandbooks/artsandbooks/view/20100524-271679/He-acts-he-sings-he-cuts-paper

Have Eagle Creek bag, will travel

Have bag, will travel
By Walter Ang
May 9, 2010
Philippine Daily Inquirer

This summer, exploring the country is one of the options for travel. And if you really think about it, traveling within the Philippines is easy. Buses in Manila travel to any point in Luzon, and there are ferries and planes to take you anywhere else you'd like to visit. So all you really need is a sturdy bag to put some clothes and personal items in and you're good to go.

To kick off this summer's adventures, Eagle Creek travel bags took a group of media members to Caramoan in Camarines Sur to check out the sights, to road test their bags, and to introduce their Global Citizenship campaign.

The campaign wants all travelers to be more aware and mindful of the impact of their actions to the environment, both natural and social. Responsible traveling is the only way to go these days. You can't just go into a new place with its own culture and start throwing around your weight, your trash, your germs, your rules. Being respectful and keeping an open mind and seeing how you can help the locals while you have fun is the battlecry.

Hotspot
The Bicol region is accessible from Manila by bus. Take the buses bound for Naga City that leave Manila at night so you can sleep on the way. You'll arrive in Naga just in time for breakfast. You'll have to drive to Sabang port for a boat ride to Caramoan.

We checked out the hottest spot in Caramoan right now: Gota, a small cove with narrow beaches that have the same talcum-powder sand that Boracay is known for. Gota is gaining a reputation with European travelers since the France, Turkey, Israel, Bulgaria and Serbia editions of the reality-show Survivor were shot there.

There's buzz that the American edition might shoot there soon. Aside from small islands with beaches, the area has rocky terrain, caves, limestone hills, coral-rich dive spots, a subterranean river, lush forests and mangrove areas.

We did a bit of island hopping and also went to Hunungan Cove, just off Gota Beach, where waters are calm year-round because it's sheltered by a small island. A fifteen-minute boat ride from Gota is Matukad Island, full of white puka shells, corals and pinkish sand.

Activities
These different environments allow visitors to do a host of activities from as mundane as fishing or sunbathing for hours on the beach to more outdoorsy stuff like hiking, camping, rock climbing and mountaineering. I took the sunbathing and lazing about route while all my companions scampered here and there, running and throwing frisbees, and swimming from islet to islet. Phew!

But I did join them in hunting for the old sets (the voting area) of the Survivor show. With a bit of looking (and if no new shoots are scheduled; they close off the area when Survivor has shoots there), you'll spot it in one of the beaches the area.

These varied terrains and conditions were also actually the perfect testing ground for the Eagle Creek bags. They have a wide line of different bags and luggage, but I tried out the Twist 22, a backpack whose straps can be folded in to transform itself into a wheeled-handcarry with a retractable handle. (There is another line that transforms into duffel bags.) Since its size meets most airline standards for carry-ons, you can imagine hopping off a plane and getting down and dirty right away.

Transform
In backpack mode, it has an internal frame that's curved to fit the body's contours and the bag's mesh-and-foam construction allows for air ventilation. The shoulder straps are ergonomically contoured and an adjustable padded hip belt protects your back from the bag's wheels and transfers weight evenly.

The buckles, zippers, webbing and fabric choice of each Eagle Creek bag is selected based on rigorous lab and field-testing. In the Twist 22's wheeled mode, the oversized off-road rubber wheels prevent it from falling over itself. Rubberized runners protect the bag's outside edges and backside, perfect for someone like me who is prone to dropping all my travel gear in a fit when I get tired and cranky (or when I'm falling all over myself from clumsiness).

There seems like the bag has a gazillion pockets on the front and side, which is a great way to help you categorize and organize your items. You'll never run out of places to shove your stuff into if you're in a hurry. Toiletries can go in one pocket, food in another, water bottle in the other one, and so forth. If you like to stuff your bag to the brim, it has compression straps inside to help keep items in place.

For the more organized traveler, all Eagle Creek bags are compatible with the Pack-It organizer bags. Little mesh bags that keep your clothes neatly in place while minimizing wrinkles (if you roll them up first).

Call 303-1234 and 567-0611 or email philippines@primergrp.com.

Also published online:
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/travel/travel/view/20100509-268843/Have-bag-will-travel