Filipino American malong-inspired pieces at Paris Fashion Week

By WALTER ANG
Oct. 16, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

San Francisco — Filipino-American fashion line Daily Malong featured its "Rooted and Current" collection on the runways of Paris Fashion Week 2023. 

Daily Malong, founded by designer Lydia Querian, presented at Paris Fashion Week 2023

The 13-piece collection was presented at Le Salon des Miroirs. "We are proud to have presented our vibrant new collection at Paris Fashion Week," said founder and designer Lydia Querian.

"We are committed to celebrating and promoting indigenous woven fabrics from the Philippines," she said.

According to Querian, presented in Paris was a mix of summer wear-tops and bottoms, skirts, and wide brimmed hats. A couple of autumn wear-with coats and trenches-also made it to the runway, said Querian.

Honoring the malong

"It was an overwhelming experience," said Querian of the opportunity to be part of Paris Fashion Week, one of the biggest fashion events in the world.

It was not Querian's first fashion week, though, as she had also presented her creations at New York Fashion Week 2021 and 2022.

She said Daily Malong was honored to feature "relatively unspoken parts of our culture in the global fashion world."

"The common theme of Filipino fashion is Filipiniana and there are a lot more beyond it inspired from different ethnolinguistic groups in the Philippines," she said. "Our culture is so diverse that it is beautiful to present many other cultures in the Philippines and change the monolithic narrative that we are all used to hearing."

Creativity, wearability

Having worked on this collection since late last year, Querian said she sought to emphasize on creativity, wearability, and pedigree.

"We want to bring contemporary relevance to the timeless beauty of Filipino Indigenous weaving from many different ethnolinguistic groups," she said. "Each piece in the collection, from intricate weaves to bold embroideries, tells a unique story, drawing deeply from oral tradition and innovation."

"This collection is a celebration of cultural heritage and a testament to the inspiring fusion of past and present," she added.

Extensive research and collaboration with indigenous and weaving communities in the Philippines were key to the collection.

Daily Malong, founded by designer Lydia Querian, presented at Paris Fashion Week 2023 | 

Querian said her inspiration for the collection were the "rivers and mountains from [my] research journey."

The line is "harmoniously informed by a blend of ancestral knowledge and modern fashion trends," she said.

According to Querian, among textiles featured in the collection were cotton inaul from Sultan Kudarat, t'nalak from Lake Cebu, inabel from Ilocos and La Union, and those from weavers in Kuantan, Kinarayan, Binakol, and Kusikos.

The textiles used, according to Querian, included:

• Yakan weaves from Basilan and Zamboanga
• Langkit weaves from Marawi
• Kalinga weaves from Lubuagan
• Embroidery pieces from Sungco, Bukidnon

"Daily Malong's mission is to bring the Indigenous cultural inspiration from the Philippines to the global stage," said Querian.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/137812/fil-am-malong-inspired-pieces-at-paris-fashion-week

Singer-actor Jaime Barcelon to serenade fans in LA solo concert

By WALTER ANG 
Aug. 30, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

LOS ANGELES — Filipino American actor and vocalist Jaime Barcelon will serenade audiences at his solo concert on Sept. 28 titled "The Heart of the Matter." 

Jaime Barcelon

The show's theme will trace Barcelon's artistic journey "from his hometown of Metro Manila to Hollywood," where he has been based for almost a decade now.

It will be held at the Gardenia Restaurant and Lounge and musical direction will be by Gerald White.

His song selection ranges from contemporary pop hits to Broadway tunes and selections from the Great American Songbook.

"I will be singing a wide range of genres in the show," he says. "I'll be singing some classics that I was inspired by growing up in Manila by artists such as the Carpenters and standards like `Someone to Watch Over Me.'

"I'll also be singing songs made popular by singers such as the great Frank Sinatra, John Legend, Sara Bareilles and Linda Ronstadt and Broadway tunes."

Singing, acting  

"I got into singing purely because I enjoyed it very much as a kid and it did help me come out of my shell as I was painfully shy.  In my teens was when I started to get more involved with choir, school productions and taking lessons."

Barcelon sang professionally as a member of The Ryan Cayabyab Singers, a group founded and mentored by the renowned composer. He now sings with the pop gospel vocal group RAISE and the Metropolitan Master Chorale.

He eventually branched out into acting and has performed in both musical and concert galas for theater company East West Players. Other theater credits include Coeurage Theatre Co. and "Edith Can Shoot Things" at Playwrights' Arena.

Barcelon has acted in numerous network television shows spanning hit procedural dramas to sitcoms and films such as "American Auto," "Criminal Minds" and "9-1-1."

Collaboration

Barcelon first met Gerald White last year upon taking White's sight singing class. With over 25 years teaching experience, White is a prolific singer/songwriter, accomplished pianist and teacher based in Los Angeles.

"Then I started taking voice lessons with him to prepare for the American Traditions Vocal Competition. I was a quarterfinalist and got to travel to Savannah, Georgia to compete."

There, Barcelon competed with established Broadway talents, classical singers and rising jazz stars.

"I knew the competition would be fierce so I really wanted to prepare as best I could. I've been working with him ever since and I was thrilled when he said he would do my show because he's very busy!"

Meaningful

"I've been in the US for a little over 10 years now. I've found so many things meaningful! Getting a chance to act on TV is a rush of excitement and there's always a part of me that is in awe of simply being there.

"With TV I've learned the importance of focus and grounding myself. There's a lot going on a filming set so when the camera is finally on you, it's time to deliver.

"With theater, it's the community. Of course, there is also that live energy that is so palpable that makes it so special. The biggest lesson I've learned here is perseverance and finding ways to stay fulfilled because it's a very challenging industry."

"The Heart of the Matter" is on Sept. 28. Visit jaimebarcelon.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/135726/singer-actor-jaime-barcelon-to-serenade-fans-in-la-solo-concert

Reviews Are In: ‘Likes’ and ‘hearts’ for ‘Here Lies Love’

By WALTER ANG
July 24, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

NEW YORK — Critics have hit the "like" and "heart" buttons for "Here Lies Love," the Broadway disco pop musical about the life of Imelda Marcos leading up to the People Power Revolution. 

Arielle Jacobs (center) in Broadway disco pop musical "Here Lies Love."
Photo by Billy Bustamante, Matthew Murphy, Evan Zimmerman

The musical has finally officially opened at the Broadway Theatre after several preview performances. Direction is by Alex Timbers (Tony Award for "Moulin Rouge!").

"Here Lies Love" involves Tony Award-winners Clint Ramos and Lea Salonga. Ramos designed the costumes and Lea Salonga is performing as Ninoy Aquino's mother for a limited number of weeks. In addition, Ramos is a lead producer and Salonga is part of the producing team.

The show touts the "first all-Filipino cast to perform on Broadway." TV star Conrad Ricamora (ABC's "How to Get Away with Murder," Hulu's "Fire Island") plays Ninoy Aquino with Arielle Jacobs as Imelda, Jose Llana as Ferdinand and Melody Butiu as Imelda's caretaker Estrella Cumpas. Jaygee Macapugay is the alternate for Imelda.

Splendid  

New York Times praised the "tireless and inspired all-Filipino cast" with Arielle Jacobs delivering the catchy songs well.

Washington Post said the show is "kinetically crowd-pleasing," complimented the "splendid ensemble" and highlighted Jacobs' "loads of charisma."

Variety extolled the show as an "extreme sensory feat, unlike any attempted before on Broadway" and complimented Conrad Ricamora's "charm offensive" and Jose Llana's "simmer and swagger."

Vulture.com, the online counterpart of New York Magazine, commended how the show gives the audience "a great, unsettling time." It highlighted Melody Butiu as "especially poignant, with a powerful voice to match."

Time Out New York gave the show 4 out of 5 stars, noting that the "groundbreaking, floor-shaking" show's strategy "succeeds overall" and that its staging is "sensational" and "flashy" with an "energetic ensemble, perfectly costumed."

Costume, set, music

Across the board, critics lauded Clint Ramos' costume design. "Show-stopping" (Vulture), "expressive" (Washington Post), "move beautifully" (New York Times).

Critics also marveled at the show's set design by David Korins ("Hamilton," "Dear Evan Hansen," "Beetlejuice"). Seats from the theater's orchestra section have been removed to transform the venue into a dance club environment for audiences to stand and move with the actors. (Side seats, mezzanine and balcony seat are available.)

"Dazzling" (Washington Post), "astonishing architectural transformation" (New York Times), "revolutionized, radicalized, gleaming" (Time Out New York).

While the show's lyrics are based on actual speeches or statements by the real-life figures, its music is by Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award winner David Byrne (of Talking Heads renown) and Grammy Award winner Fatboy Slim. Fil-Am J. Oconer Navarro is the show's music director.

Critics described the tunes as having "seductive beats" (Variety) and "juicy get-on-your-feet hooks" (Vulture). They are "infernally catchy" (New York Times), "thumping . gets you into the groove" (Time Out New York).

TikTok influencers

TikTok theater influencers had been invited to watch previews of the show and have also posted their reactions.

Kate Reinking (@theatreislife) personally recommends reading the historical information materials in the lobby for audience members who are not familiar with Philippine history.

She also encourages joining in on the audience participation portions of the show. "If by the end, you [feel] `should I have been going along with that?' That is kind of that point," she explains. "It definitely does not sugarcoat [the history]. I think the show is really well done."

Ben Lebofsky (@its.raining.ben) says, "This show is designed to be an experience. It forces the audience to be complicit in the story, [which] plays into a lot of the themes of the show. They do a good job of blending the concept [of immersive staging] and the subject matter."

While he feels that the show could have gone deeper, "it never asks you to sympathize with Imelda. It's a super fun and unique theatrical experience and we just don't get these types of shows on Broadway very often."

Visit herelieslovebroadway.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/133745/reviews-are-in-likes-and-hearts-for-here-lies-love

Heroism, recipes and family in new culinary memoir

By WALTER ANG
July 19, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

NEW YORK — In her previous cookbooks, Filipino America chef Elizabeth Besa-Quirino has given readers morsels of her mother's culinary influences. In her latest book Every Ounce of Courage: A Daughter's Reflections on Her Mother's Bravery, Quirino provides a full course on the woman who raised her.

Elizabeth Besa Quirino (front) with her mother Lourdes "Lulu" Reyes Besa.

In what she describes as a historical and culinary memoir, Quirino recounts "stories of heroism" about Lourdes "Lulu" Reyes Besa. From a childhood with tragedy to life as a young socialite in the heyday of 1930s Manila, Besa eventually is thrust into aid work during World War II.

"Lulu embarked unflinchingly on dangerous missions to bring aid and comfort that meant the difference between life and death to countless Filipino and American prisoners of war, at great peril to her own life," says Quirino.

After the war, Besa received two Medals of Freedom from President Harry Truman. "Becoming the first Filipino woman and civilian to be so honored for her valiant efforts."

Saved  

Two decades ago, Quirino received a phone call from a stranger. "He told me, `You don't know me, but your mother saved my life.'

"It was an American war veteran. He contacted me by phone to tell me he had been searching for my mother for over 50 years since the war ended. There was no internet and no social media during all those years, so he was never able to find my mother.

"As a young man living in the Midwest in the 1940s, he had enlisted with the American Army Air Forces and was assigned to the Philippines. Unfortunately, he was one of the thousands captured in 1942. As a prisoner, he got very sick with malaria and other illnesses."

Quirino details in the book how Besa's connections allowed her to enter the prison camps as she clandestinely brought in prohibited medicines.

"That phone call changed my life. I knew very little about my mother's life during World War II. She never talked about it. He urged me to start writing my mother's story."

Recipes

Quirino's previous titles include How to Cook Philippine Desserts, Cakes and Snacks: Filipino Cookbook Recipes of Asian in America and My Mother's Philippine Recipes : Filipino Cookbook Recipes from Asian in America.

Responding to the Instant Pot craze a few years ago, she released Instant Filipino Recipes: My Mother's Traditional Philippine Food In a Multi-Cooker Pot.

To write about her own mother's life, Quirino's years-long research included old letters and photographs. She also looked into news clippings, magazine articles and history books. "The books I read brought me back to different eras. The more I read, the more historical information I found about my family."

What she anchors her book on is her use of generational family recipes. "The chapters begin with me cooking a different dish from my mother's time. Each recipe brought me back in time to the stories she used to tell me about the war, about my grandparents and great grandparents.

"There are 24 recipes in the book. In the process of my historical and culinary research, I went back to the time my mother was born, to the era of my grandparents at the turn of the 20th century."

Some of the recipes Quirino features in the book include Mom's Shrimp Toast, ensaymadas, pancit molo soup, beef morcon, tibok-tibok and ginataang bilo-bilo. "Food plays a large part in my family."

"In my mother's story, I discovered a complex life full of joy, sorrow, selflessness and survival. I learned precious lessons about how the timeless bonds of family, the steadfast strength of faith and the power of an indomitable will can provide solace and sense in a world of uncertainty."

Visit TheQuirinoKitchen.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/133508/heroism-recipes-and-family-in-new-culinary-memoir

Bounty hunter chases Filipino immigrants in thriller novel 'Multo'

By WALTER ANG
July 14, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

SAN FRANCISCO — Filipino American author Cindy Fazzi is releasing her new thriller Multo, featuring Fil-Am bounty hunter Domingo, who trails undocumented immigrants while writing an advice book for those aspiring to live in the US.

Cindy Fazzi

Domingo's latest job is to seek out biracial Filipino woman Monica Reed, the only fugitive who has ever escaped him and the only one he's ever released against orders. The hunt uncovers a dangerous truth that Reed is determined to publicize even though it puts her life in danger.

The book has been decades in the making with Fazzi's own experiences as an immigrant inspiring the book's milieu. "I first wrote the manuscript that became Multo back in 1995 when I was a green card holder waiting for my US citizenship," says Fazzi.

Interest and inspiration

She had arrived a few years prior to take up graduate studies in journalism at Ohio State University after working as a reporter in Manila and Taipei.

She was then accepted in an internship program with the Associated Press and was offered a full-time job at its conclusion. "I started working in the Columbus Bureau [in Ohio] one month after I received my master's degree. I became a naturalized US citizen in 2000."

"I became interested in fiction writing in graduate school. I actually had the time and motivation to read, write, and discuss books with friends. It was a luxury I never had while working as a reporter.

"The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan was one of the first books I read when I arrived in the US. She inspired me to write fiction, not only because her book is about Asian Americans but because it was so successful. She was proof that there's an audience for Asian American writing."

Attuned

While developing the manuscript, Fazzi had first created the Monica Reed character. "I was very attuned to immigration problems," she says. After reading a New York Times article about a bounty hunter who specialized in deporting undocumented immigrants, she was inspired to create the Domingo character.

"It took me two years to write the first version of the book, which was universally rejected by literary agents who considered it `uncommercial.'"

"I set it aside and wrote other novels. Multo sat in my computer for years." It refused to disappear. "I rewrote it in 2008 and then again in 2017."

Debut thriller

In the intervening years, her articles have appeared in Electric Literature, Catapult, Forbes, and Writer's Digest. Her short stories have appeared in Tough, Snake Nation Review and Copperfield Review.

Fazzi worked on two other books. She wrote romance novel In His Corner under the pen name Vina Arno in 2015, published by Lyrical Press. Next came historical novel My MacArthur in 2018, published by Sand Hill Review Press.

When it comes to writing, Fazzi relies on a routine. "It's really important that I start my day early, at 5 a.m. And that I start it with about 10 or 15 minutes of meditation.

"As a former reporter, I can write anywhere, anytime, but it won't necessarily be optimal. I write best at home where I'm surrounded by familiar things.

"A UC Davis mug that my daughter gave me, for coffee while I'm writing. A `lucky' bamboo plant that's five years old. A little figurine of a laughing Buddha, which Filipinos consider lucky. A small bowl of quartz stones that I've received from friends and family over the years."

Fortune favors the persistent. "Multo was acquired by Agora Books last year, 27 years after it was conceived. It's my third published novel but my debut thriller," she says. Multo will be available starting September 2023.

For book signings and other author-related events, visit cindyfazzi.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/133206/bounty-hunter-chases-filipino-immigrants-in-thriller-novel-multo

‘To Ken with Love’ premiering at NewFilmmakers LA’s fest

By WALTER ANG 
June 7, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net

LOS ANGELES — Filipino American Mike Talplacido's short film To Ken with Love is premiering on June 17 at New Filmmakers Los Angeles' monthly film festival.

Mike Talplacido (left) with Maria Isabel Lopez.

The film focuses on Ken Jones, a flamboyant talk show host who relishes being the "whitest gaysian ever." Ken's perfectly curated world of glitz and glamour is suddenly rocked by a work incident involving his network TV executive boss, along with the arrival of Marikit, a young Fil-Am intern. He also has to contend with the reappearance of his mother, who he has not seen in decades.

Ken's colorful persona belies internalized racism. He does not see himself as Asian and the one thing he really wants is to be accepted and validated by white people. Ken must deal with the toxic tokenism at work and carve a path towards embracing his roots and identity. Will Ken find a way toward finding out who he really is?

First-time filmmaker Talplacido says, "The film is a story about family, relationships and the journey towards finding one's true authentic self."

Collaborators

Talplacido has written the screenplay, directs and plays Jones. Fil-Ams in the cast include Pinky Albea, Jefferson Carvey, Marco Torres, and Ashley Rapunao.

Seasoned actress Maria Isabel Lopez, plays Jones' mother in the film. Lopez performs alongside her daughter Mara Lopez, who is essaying the role of Marikit.

The film also features costumes designed by Kenneth Barlis, who was a finalist on the 19th season of Project Runway.

Other Fil-Ams involved in the production include director of photography Luke Dejoras, music composer Jamie Pangan, editor Seth Dacio and co-Producer: Julian Bataclan.

Focus

For June, coinciding with Pride Month, the film series' programming focus is "LGBTQ+ Cinema." Talplacido says, "This film is my love letter to the gay Asian community. This story needs to be told now.

"There's still a lot of negative stigma towards the LGBTQ community. While there has been a strong momentum going on for diversity and inclusion, there is still so much more that we need to do to further create change and make a positive impact.

"I was inspired to tell this story because it is something that I have seen in my own community. I realize much of this phenomenon was really a result of internalized racism. As a Filipino American and an

Asian American, I have seen so many of us struggle with our own identities. Many of us have felt `not enough' and, as such, have chosen to stay away from our own identities and culture.

Unique beauty

"Worst, a few others I know have even `hated' themselves for being who they are. Myself included at some point in the past. It is important for actions to start from within ourselves. We must smash every bit of notion related to internalized racism. We must learn to love who we are and embrace our unique beauty," he says.

Maria Isabel Lopez echoes the need for a more accepting society. "At the end of the day, all we need is love. I love the story and the message behind the film," she says.

Talplacido hopes to enter the film in other upcoming film festivals in the US and internationally. For organizations interested in screening the film, email tokenwithlovefilm@gmail.com.

Visit newfilmmakersla.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/130880/to-ken-with-love-premiering-at-newfilmmakers-las-fest

‘Here Lies Love’ Imelda musical slammed by Broadway union

By WALTER ANG 
June 1, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

NEW YORK — "Here Dies Love of Live Music," notes one comment on social media reacting to the latest hurdle faced by the Broadway-bound musical "Here Lies Love."

Television star Conrad Ricamora (ABC's "How to Get Away with Murder,"
Hulu's "Fire Island") plays Ninoy Aquino in "Here Lies Love,"

The musical has already been provoking strong sentiments due to its subject matter, the life story of Imelda Marcos. (Read about it here.)

Now it has angered the industry's musicians union because it will not be using a band or orchestra for its production.

The musical is staged in a dance club setting with its cast singing to recorded music. The producers say this staging device is, "part of the karaoke genre inherent to the musical."

"Here Lies Love" features all Filipino American actors leading the cast, with Arielle Jacobs as Imelda Marcos, Jose Llana as Ferdinand Marcos and Conrad Ricamora as Ninoy Aquino.

Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians says its contract with the Broadway League, the trade organization representing Broadway producers, guarantees the use of a minimum number of musicians for musicals in certain theaters, specifically 19 for the Broadway Theatre.

The union's president Tino Gagliardi has said, "A show with no live music . is absolutely an existential threat to Broadway . by using just pre-recorded tracks, it not only cheapens the art, it's putting jobs and livelihoods at risk."

Explainer

A statement from the producers, which include Tony Award winning costume designer Clint Ramos and Pulitzer Prize winner Jose Antonio Vargas, said, "Since 'Here Lies Love' was first conceived 17 years ago, every production has been performed to pre-recorded track; this is part of the karaoke genre inherent to the musical and the production concept. The music for 'Here Lies Love' was inspired by the phenomena of 'track acts' which allowed club audiences to keep dancing, much like this production aims to do." 

Tony Award winner Lea Salonga and Grammy Award winner Fil-Am singer H.E.R. (Gabriella Wilson) are part of the producing team.

The show's producers have been negotiating with the union to have the show declared a "special situation" to allow for the pre-recorded tracks instead of live instrumentalists. In a statement, the producers said, "We will continue to work in good faith with the union to move through the steps of the contractual process."

Social media

In the show's social media accounts, it has posted a lengthier explanation of its staging conceit, that composer David Byrne intentionally employed performance styles that are conceptually aligned and because of the show's subject matter. Disco track acts and karaoke, which both use vocalists singing along to pre-recorded, synthetic tracks.

"Disco Track Acts, popular in the 1970s and '80s disco scenes, were disco singers who popped into dance clubs unannounced, handed the DJ a cassette tape of a song, and sang live to it on a temporary platform as the crowd danced.

"Karaoke, or sing-along, is deeply rooted in Filipino Culture-and the diasporic Asian culture at large. In the Philippines, karaoke is ubiquitous, crossing class, generational, and economic lines. Almost every Philippine home has a karaoke machine.

"While visiting the Philippines to conduct research, Byrne realized that not only was Karaoke inescapable, it was also prevalent in Imelda Marcos' political strategy.

"The slickness and artificiality of the music relates directly to the synthetic seduction of political figures. [the musical's] every moment is informed by the concept of dance club Track Acts and Karaoke."

The posts go on to say that "Here Lies Love" is "not a traditional Broadway musical" and denounces "artistic gate-keepers."

Reactions in the comments support and oppose the situation. One comment reads, "If it is not a traditional musical, it should not be in a traditional musical theater."

Another states, "As a Filipino musician and scholar, I already find the subject matter of this show deplorable, but to disregard live musicians? Musical theatre is about the liveness of performance."

One comment states, "The criticism is all from people who haven't seen the show. There is nothing for live musicians to play. Do you go to Fatboy Slim and DJs performing at dance clubs and lament they don't have live musicians?"

Visit Herelieslovebroadway.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/130396/here-lies-love-imelda-musical-slammed-by-broadway-union

Filipino American ‘cowgirl fights for justice’ at NY playfest

By WALTER ANG 
May 31, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

NEW YORK — Filipino American composer and playwright AJ Layague shines a light on the importance of justice with her new theatrical piece. Her play "Cowgirl Katarungan Is Fixin' to Fight" will be staged at the PanAsian NuWorks Festival. 

Kayla May Paz Suarez (left) and Michaela Jose are in the cast
of AJ Layague's "Cowgirl Katarungan Is Fixin' to Fight."
Photo by Thomas Lynch 

In the play co-directed by Ely Sonny Orquiza and Kayla May Paz Suarez, the title character is a "Filipinx-American cowgirl truth-teller, detective poet" who recounts, in rhyming verse, four vignettes dealing with anti-miscegenation, fraud, misogyny and public rudeness and privilege.

The play's roster of characters comprise imagined figures and real persons from history such as Filipino immigrant Salvador Roldan, who wanted to marry white British woman Marjorie Rogers in 1931 but was denied by the courts.

Ed Gonzalez Moreno is projection designer, Aria Renee Curameng is costume designer and the playwright herself is handling sound design. Cast includes Paz Suarez and Michaela Jose.

Layague's credits as a composer include music for Shakespeare productions at Keck Theater/Occidental College in Los Angeles; film; a Star Trek video game; and chamber music for string quartets and chamber orchestras, among others.

Musicals she has composed include "A Good Boy" (co-composer), "Lucy Larcom," and "The Ilustrados," which features a wide range of Filipino music influences including Visayan folk tunes, kulintang and Fil-Am DJ culture.

Plays include "The Ballad of Timo and Mel" and "Kasparov in 45/Deep Blue in 19" which recounts the famous chess rematch in 1997, from the viewpoint of Billie, a young Filipina chess prodigy.

Family

Layague celebrates and honors her family with this piece, combining the passions they've nurtured in her as she was growing up.

"I grew up in a family of specialized knowledge," she says. "Both my mother and my maternal grandfather emigrated from the Philippines as scholars who specialized in American culture and history. This unique mix of worlds, being brown in a white-centrist world, yet educating Americans on their own histories and policies, became a fascination to me as a writer and composer."

Her grandfather, Aquilino Layague, taught at Silliman University, Dumaguete City and at Buena Vista University, Iowa. Her mother, Elmira Layague Johnson, taught at different universities, including Syracuse University in New York and West Virginia University.

"She was one of the first Asian women deans in the US  at College of the Desert in Palm Desert. She and my dad, Eugene Johnson, met as faculty at Franklin College."

"My strongest memories of childhood are cautiously asking my Filipino grandfather to turn down volume of the television, which was usually blasting `Bonanza' or `Gunsmoke' or some other western. I knew him as an intense professor who specialized in the history of colonization."

"Only after he passed away did I see and fully understand all the newspaper articles that heralded him as a resistance leader in the Philippines during World War II. The hero that I thought only existed in fictionalized, Americanized westerns."

Music and history

Layague says that theater and music is crucial to her "engagement with Filipino and Filipino American history." This is connected to her work as an ethnomusicologist. She'd lived and studied music in Southeast Asia.

 "I am most interested in how music-cultures and cultures can evolve, respond, and even thrive during colonization. And how they sound and re-sound post-colonization.

For example, she says, "When you hear and play kulintang you also hear the sophisticated metallurgical techniques of a gong culture which thrived and survived centuries of colonization."

"So much of my artistic journey is connected to my cultural roots journey. How do I honor my ancestors and my background? How do I do their stories justice? Cowgirl Katarungan has been a way to embody and recognize and connect to those who came before."

"Cowgirl Katarungan is Fixin' to Fight" runs June 6 to 10. Visit Panasianrep.org.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/130194/fil-am-cowgirl-fights-for-justice-at-ny-playfest

Filipino American artist serves Seattle community through dance

By WALTER ANG
May 25, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

SEATTLE — Filipino American choreographer Bennyroyce Royon will premiere his new contemporary dance piece "Begin Again" about letting go, reinvention and finding balance for a post-pandemic future. 

A dancer from Bennyroyce Dance Company rehearsing for "Begin Again." 

The piece will be performed by his dance company Bennyroyce Dance at the Filipino Community of Seattle's (FCS) community center, May 26-27-28. Each performance includes a post-show question-and-answer session.

Royon says, "It is my choreographic response to trauma, loss and moving forward." The 45-minute work includes visual design elements using props and video projections that invite performers and audiences alike to reflect, dialogue and move.

The company currently consists of dancers from Seattle and New York, including Fil-Am Annamarie Doucette.

The dance company has appeared at prominent theaters and dance festivals across the country and has received grants and creative residencies. Bennyroyce Dance has performed in Velocity Dance Center, The Theatre at Meydenbauer Center and the Roxy Theater. In New York, it has performed at Repertory Theater at Hostos Center for the Arts and Culture, Baryshnikov Arts Center, Ailey Studios, and Salvatore Capezio Theater at Peridance, among others.

Dance

Royon moved from the Philippines to Seattle when he was 12. "My first intro to movement was learning Filipino folk dances as a young child growing up in the Philippines. When I moved to the US, I started learning ballet, modern, and jazz at a local ballet school."

Once he was accepted to The Juilliard School in New York, he began to consider choreographing. "My experience at Juilliard opened up a whole new world for me to explore, beyond performance and into realms of dance making, collaboration, and the idea of being a global citizen artist."

As a performer, his credits include "The King and I" (Broadway), "Artist of Light" (Off-Broadway), "Madama Butterfly," "Turandot" (Metropolitan Opera), among others. He has performed with dance companies such as Sidra Bell Dance New York, Carolyn Dorfman Dance, Collective Body Dance Lab and is a founding member of Bad Boys of Dance.

As a choreographer, Royon has received commissions from Atlanta Ballet, Ballet Hispanico, Point Park University, Mason Gross School of the Arts and The Joffrey Academy of Dance, to name a few.

Community

"Begin Again" is partly borne out of Royon's partnership with FCS, where he is the Culture and Arts Program Coordinator as well as its first-ever Artist in Residence.

Founded in 1935, FCS is a nonprofit social service organization providing affordable housing, senior services, youth development and STEM programs, arts and culture programs, and basic needs programs such as food bags and warm meals.

"I'm grateful to FCS Executive Director Agnes Navarro for providing me a creative home during an important juncture of my choreographic career," he says. "My residency involves providing community members access to high-caliber, deeply inspiring, and transformative dance experiences."

For FCS, Royon has helped organize the FCS Kalahi Dance Group, a Filipino folk dance troupe composed of children, teens and adults. He's also involved with programming for seniors, families and the general public. "I've hosted several events so far this year including an open swing dance social."

Last year, he organized a cultural event for Filipino American History Month. "I curated a showcase of Seattle-based Fil-Am talent including musicians, dancers, singers and a drag queen. I shared a short excerpt of my work `Homebound/Alaala' as part of the program."

"All of these events employ my creativity and choreographic talents. It has been overwhelming but deeply rewarding to serve my community in this way."

Discounts are available for students, seniors and military.  Visit Bennyroyce.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/129708/fil-am-artist-serves-seattle-community-through-dance

Modern take on ‘Noli Me Tangere’ goes onstage at Hollywood Fringe Fest

By WALTER ANG
May 16, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

LOS ANGELES — A modern adaptation of Jose Rizal's classic novel Noli Me Tangere will be staged June 4-25, at the Hollywood Fringe Festival. 

Casey Estorque (left) as Cris Ibarra and Marco Torres as Don Santiago
in rehearsals for "Don't."

Written and produced by Mike Talplacido and titled "#Don't," the play reverses the gender of the main protagonist and adds characters not found in the book. There are other twists in store to make the story more relatable to the audience, according to the playwright.

The play's producers aim to entice audiences and readers who may be unfamiliar with the book by using the premise that Cris Ibarra, after seven years pursuing higher education in the US, returns home to the Philippines to avenge the death of her father.

Noli Me Tangere was published in 1887 when the Philippines was still under Spanish colonial rule. "After its release, the novel became instrumental in initiating Filipino nationalism that ultimately led to the Philippine Revolution in 1896. Not only did it awaken sleeping Filipino awareness, but it also established the grounds for aspiring to independence," says Talplacido.

The production is a Filipino American endeavor, directed by Randal Kamradt and coproduced by Miralee Menzies with production design by Lawrence Ramirez. Casey Estorque leads the cast as Cris Ibarra. Cynthia San Luis plays Maria Clara, Arianna Basco plays Sisa and Mark Labella plays Damaso.

Awareness and relatability

Talplacido says the intention of developing a modern take on this classic story is to reignite political and social awareness among audiences.

Talplacido says "I have spent a lot of time talking to a lot of younger Filipino Americans on my podcast 'Kiss My Mike' and on the Clubhouse app."

"There's just so much interest from the Fil-Am community to learn more about our history and connect with our culture but not a lot of interesting and exciting new ways to do so."

"Thus, as a screenwriter, I decided that my next project would have a historical component, but I also wanted to present it in a new and fresh way. I picked Rizal's work because to me, it's a staple for understanding Philippine history."

Different take  

Talplacido started writing "#Don't" in 2022 originally as a seven-episode limited TV series. "I soon realized later in the process that it would be much harder and more expensive to produce as a TV show. That's when I decided to convert my script into a play."

Cynthia San Luis rehearsing for her role as Maria Clara in a stage adaptation of Noli Me Tangere. 

"In terms of research, I re-read Noli Me Tangere and immersed myself into re-learning Philippine history."

Nevertheless, he points out that the play is a different take on Rizal's work and has a different story.

Characters he's created for the play include Jessica Ressa, a news reporter who "covers the nefarious world of drug trafficking, graft and corruption, and the unscrupulous politicians involved" and Bulldog (played by Fil-Am celebrity singer-actor Boy Rose)," a cop and an ultimate henchman who will do anything he's told."

"They were added to help convey some of the modern underpinnings of the story."

Bridging gaps

He shares what cast member Camille Aragon, who plays Victorina, wrote on Instagram, "In many ways this creative process is bridging the cultural gap and shining a light on an important story of our beloved Philippines, that I and many other Filipinxs raised outside of their homeland, may otherwise not know."

Talplacido says sparking this of sentiment is "the kind of impact that I am hoping we can achieve through the show."

"Overall, in this adaptation, there's a lot of focus on female empowerment, diversity and inclusion and pop culture. I cannot wait for the audience members to see our play."

"#Don't" runs June 4-25, 2023. Visit Instagram.com/hashtag_dont.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/129125/modern-take-on-noli-me-tangere-goes-onstage-at-hollywood-fringe-fest

Broadway’s George Salazar in stage romcom; gives dating advice

By WALTER ANG
May 9, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

LOS ANGELES — Filipino American Broadway star George Salazar headlines the world premiere of dark romcom "The Bottoming Process."

George Salazar (left) and Rick Cosnett rehearsing for "The Bottoming Process."
Photo by Jeff Lorch

Salazar's credits include "Be More Chill" on Broadway (Lucille Lortel Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical), "The Lighting Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" on Off-Broadway and "Little Shop of Horrors" at the Pasadena Playhouse.

The play is penned by Nicholas Pilapil and directed by Rodney To. Starring opposite Salazar is television mainstay Rick Cosnett ("The Vampire Diaries," "Quantico" and "The Flash").

The play is a co-production of the IAMA Theatre Company, of which To is associate artistic director, and the Los Angeles LGBT Center.

In the play, fledgling 20-something Fil-Am writer Milo (played by Salazar) and famous middle-aged novelist John mate, date and cohabitate. As Milo's career skyrockets, his rising star soon rivals and outshines John's. They grapple with race, sex, power and stereotypes, all to find out who's really on top.

Pilapil explains that the play's title holds multiple meanings, one of which is the slang term for the receptive role in gay sexual dynamics. "But it also references the power struggle between John and Milo and the ways we all can be our own downfall [in relationships]."

Special

Salazar appreciates the opportunity to perform in a play. "As someone who broke into the business doing musicals, it's often difficult for me to be seen as someone who can 'handle' a play," he says.

"It feels amazing to get to stretch my 'play muscles.' In some ways, I find musicals to be easier than plays because you have an orchestrated score to help tell your story, high notes for the climactic moments and songs to provide the emotional height. You don't have all that to rely on in a play, so it feels more bare. I honestly love that vulnerability."

Salazar feels a kinship with the character he is playing. "I'm telling a story that is so close to mine. I'm playing a Filipino, a well-written gay Filipino, for the first time in my career and it feels like an absolute blessing.

"The first time I read the script, I was a sobbing mess. This play made me feel seen in a way that I rarely get to experience as a person of color, as a Filipino. I felt the weight of what I was working on: someday, queer Filipinos and other Asians who share my experience, who share Milo's experience, will sit in a dark theater and watch a new, original, daring play about them. I'm so looking forward to looking into the [audience] and seeing their faces."

New works

He also relishes the chance to develop a character from scratch. "I've spent the last ten plus years falling in love with developing new work. The process is scary at times as we're creating something new, implementing rewrites daily, but it's thrilling and so rewarding."

Salazar praises his collaborators Pilapil and To. "They listen to actors and build a character around the person playing the part. The actor's DNA [becomes] intertwined with the character's. It's very special. Our rehearsals have been an absolute blast, the room is full of love for each other and the play. The days we do our most emotionally challenging work still brim with joy.

As far as giving dating advice to young Filipino Americans, Salazar has this to share, "Know your worth and know your value. Your 20s are a confusing time of figuring yourself out, making mistakes and having your heart broken. All these things assemble who you are meant to be. Learn from those mistakes and the heartbreaks, put yourself back together and hold yourself to a higher standard.

"We are a resilient people and someday, someone wonderful will come into your life. I dated a bunch of duds and now I share my life with someone who makes me happy, who supports me, and who treats me as an equal. Never settle!"

"The Bottoming Process" runs May 18 to June 12. Visit iamatheatre.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/128631/broadways-george-salazar-in-stage-romcom-gives-dating-advice

Los Angeles arts group to host community night for Filipino American musical

By WALTER ANG
May 4, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

LOS ANGELES — Filipino American composer Paolo Tirol's musical "On This Side of the World" will have its world premiere with theater company East West Players on May 13, during a special Filipino Community Night.

Zandi de Jesus and Cassie Simone rehearsing a scene from "On This Side of the World."

This world premiere is produced in association with The Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS), host of the community night, which will include a pre and post-show reception featuring food and drinks.

Created with and directed by Noam Shapiro, the musical gives voices to Filipino immigrants navigating old lives and new beginnings.

A woman flies from the Philippines to America with a one-way ticket and a suitcase full of stories. Each story is collected from immigrants who came before her: tales of overseas workers, young lovers, gossipy church ladies, millennial princesses and first-generation Americans. She replays these stories in her mind as she searches for the courage to embrace her future.

Filipino Americans in the cast include Steven-Adam Agdeppa, Zandi De Jesus, Michael Palma, Cassie Simone, Andrea Somera and Shaun Tuazon. Melvin Biteng and Justine Rafael are understudies.

Other Fil-Ams involved in the production include music director Marc Macalintal and choreographer Anjanette Maraya-Ramey.

Rich Tapestry

Tirol's music directing credits include "Reefer Madness," "Drowsy Chaperone" and "The Wedding Singer."

He handled the orchestrations for Ma-Yi Theater's off-Broadway staging of the musical "Felix Starro," based on Lysley Tenorio's short story. He is working on the music, lyrics and book for "Dear America," adapted from the memoir of journalist and activist Jose Antonio Vargas.

"'On This Side of the World' is one of the most transporting and moving new musicals I have encountered in a long time," said Snehal Desai, East West Players' producing artistic director. "It explores the beautiful ways in which we immigrants contribute to the rich tapestry of what it is to be an Asian American."

Desai added, "We're proud to be able to world premiere this humorous, inventive, and deeply heartfelt new musical in partnership with FilAm ARTS. We hope to pay homage to and honor the countless immigrants before us who took the first, daring steps to leave all that they know behind with just a suitcase and their dreams in hopes of building a better life for themselves and their families."

Unique identity

FilAm ARTS is a resource for Fil-Am artists and culture bearers outside the Philippines to "cultivate a community who are rooted in our collective history and actively striving to represent, celebrate and express Filipino culture and our unique Filipino-American identity."

(From left) Steven-Adam Agdeppa, Shaun Tuazon and Michael Palma in rehearsals.

It also serves as a cultural consultant to other organizations actively looking to further Filipino representation in the global community.

"We have been so fortunate to have Paulo Tirol and Noam Shapiro as part of our FilAm ARTS pamilya," said Giselle Töngi-Walters, FilAm ARTS Executive Director.

"We are honored to have presented highlights from 'On This Side of The World' two years ago. This spring collaboration between East West Players and FilAm ARTS is a testament of our community and cultural partnership. We look forward to seeing you at the theater!"

"On This Side of the World" runs May 11-June 4 at the David Henry Hwang Theater, Union Center of the Arts, 120 Judge John Aiso St., Los Angeles.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/128189/los-angeles-arts-group-to-host-community-night-for-fil-am-musical

Filipino American composer-librettist has musicals on both coasts

By WALTER ANG
May 1, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

SEATTLE — Prolific Filipino American theater composer and librettist Justin Huertas is orchestrating a symphony of his works this year for audiences coast to coast.

Justin Huertas

This May, his musical "Lydia and the Troll" is scheduled to run at Seattle Repertory Theatre.

In June, Huertas will star in the New York premiere of his musical "Lizard Boy" by Prospect Theater Company.

"The Mortification of Fovea Munson," whose music he composed and wrote the lyrics for, just finished its run at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.

Huertas' other credits include "Howl's Moving Castle" with Book-it Repertory Theatre and "The Lamplighter" with 5th Avenue Theatre.

He has been steadfastly and meaningfully incorporating his Filipino American heritage into some of his works. His "The Last World Octopus Wrestling Champion" is a pop-rock musical about a Filipino American family whose matriarch is a wrestler of octopi from the Pacific Ocean and his "We've Battled Monsters Before" with ArtsWest is loosely adapted from the 16th century Filipino epic poem Ibong Adarna.

He also clearly has a love for his hometown, setting "Lizard Boy," "The Last World Octopus ." and "We've Battled Monsters Before" in Seattle, "the Emerald City," filling them with specific neighborhoods and local landmarks.

Troll

In his latest work, co-created Ameenah Kaplan, Huertas has crafted another love letter to the city. This time taking inspiration from the Fremont Troll, also known as the Troll Under the Bridge.

The 18-foot public sculpture in the Fremont neighborhood clutches an actual Volkswagen Beetle and was created by four local artists in the 1990s.

Huertas creates an origin myth for the troll in "Lydia and the Troll." In the musical, singer-songwriter Lydia feels held back by her creative block and her toxic relationship to her boyfriend. A mysterious stranger offers her the chance to change her life and she may end up sacrificing more than she ever imagined.

In a previous interview with Encorespotlight.com, Huertas explained that Lydia becomes cursed and spends the rest of the story trying to reverse the situation. The musical will involve puppets and shadow play.

Lizard Boy

"Lizard Boy" is described as a "comic book adventure and coming-of-age love story." In the musical, Trevor, a young man with green scaly skin, goes on a first date that spirals into a mythic and transformative journey as he confronts villains, monsters and, ultimately, himself.

The musical has appeared at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe Festival and won six 2021 San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle Awards, including Best Entire Production. The show was originally commissioned, developed by and received its world premiere at Seattle Repertory Theatre.

Lizard Boy has been called "ingenious" (San Francisco Chronicle), "phenomenal" (San Jose News), "ferocious and funny" (Seattle Times) and "wildly original" (The Guardian).

The original cast recording, which is available online, has been streamed over three million times on Spotify.

"Lydia and the Troll" runs May 5-June 4 in Seattle. "Lizard Boy" runs June 1-July 1 in New York. Visit Linktr.ee/justinhuertas.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/127817/fil-am-composer-librettist-has-musicals-on-both-coasts

New play in Chicago explores Filipino American family resilience

By WALTER ANG
April 26, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

CHICAGO — Filipino American community arts organization Circa Pintig is staging a story about Filipino American resilience. 

Heather Jencks (left) and Ginger Leopoldo
rehearsing for "Daryo's All American Diner."

In "Daryo's All American Diner" by Conrad Panganiban, a Fil-Am family struggles to keep a family business open at the height of the pandemic. They survive a traumatic act of violence that leads to an act of grace.

Set in the fictional town of Lakeside, Illinois, 40 year old May is faced with the diner's mounting expenses and the possibility of having to sell it. Her mother, April, and her African American surrogate aunt, Alberta, suffer racial hatred. How will they find a way to keep the business afloat while honoring the legacy the diner's founder?

The play is presented as part of the group's 32nd theater season and is directed by Luis Pascasio.

Cast includes Heather Jencks, Ginger Leopoldo, RJ Silva, Cary Shoda, Amanda Payne and KC Khan with music and sound design by Demetrio Maguigad and set design by Larry Leopoldo.

Inspired

When Panganiban was approached by Circa Pintig to write a play that touched on anti-Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) violence in America, he felt "it was a daunting task, but a welcome challenge."

"I've been so fortunate to have written quite a few plays that revolve around social justice," he says, referring to his plays "Esperanza Means Hope," about domestic violence in the AAPI community and "Welga," about Filipino American contributions to historical labor rights issues.

He wanted to use theater to unite communities and was inspired by a real experience. "There's a cafe I frequent in Alameda, California, run by an Asian American family that serves classic `American' diner food.

"The clientele is very diverse. Being in a small community, it was so encouraging to see how the customers interacted with the staff. That seed of imagining how these diners would react if one of the staff would be attacked and how a community can be united because of that act inspired the story of the play."

Hope

Panganibans' previous collaborations with Circa Pintig include "The Perfect American" in 2018, which was presented as part of the 100 Acts of Resistance Play Festival. "Prior to that, they produced an evening of my short plays in 2014."

"It's an honor to have already established a relationship with them where they trust me and my writing style of blending social justice, community building, humor, and family dynamics to take on this topic."

It is important to Panganiban that audiences carry hopeful resolutions out of the theater and into their communities to share with friends and family. "Especially when it feels like much of the country, communities and even families are divided on so many subjects," he says.

"As a playwright, it's always a dream to be able to put my words into the bodies of amazing artists to show how hope for a better tomorrow can keep a person going, no matter how bleak things get."

"I'd love for audiences to remember that each person has a voice. That if a person sees something wrong done, that they are capable of reaching out for help."

"Daryo's All American Diner" is staged in partnership with the Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble and is double billed with the ensemble's production of "The Wasteland."

Runs May 5-20. Auditorium of Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster in Chicago. Visit circapintig.org.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/127546/new-play-in-chicago-explores-fil-am-family-resilience

Filipino American choreographs Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale musical

By WALTER ANG
April 21, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

SAN JOSE, California — Filipino American Cat Delos Santos Reyes is the choreographer for Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre's musical "The Song of the Nightingale."

Filipino American Cat Delos Santos Reyes is choreographing
Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre's musical "The Song of the Nightingale."

When ambitious kitchen-maid Mei Lin discovers that the Emperor of China is searching for the Nightingale, whose song brings hope to the people of the land, she offers to help find and capture the bird in exchange for a lofty promotion.

This transaction has tragic consequences, however, as Mei Lin soon learns that the Emperor is a foolish ruler who cannot see beyond the bird's plain outer appearance. Based on a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, this magical, musical romp reminds audiences that true beauty and worth are always found within.

Filipino Americans involved in the production include director Jepoy Ramos and actors Ann Warque (Mei Lin) and Simon Santos (Mei Lin's romantic partner, Xiao).

Collaboration

"It's all about collaboration with Cat," says Ramos. "I told her my vision for the production and using that information, she created all the choreography based on her interpretation. I definitely trusted her and listened to her input and ideas."

Ramos's credits include "No Goodbyes" and "Cristiano's Kween" for Bindlestiff Studio, "Deep in the Heart of Texas," and "Rent the Musical," among others. "I will be producing `Seussical' with Woodside Musical Theatre in the late summer and I'm directing `Spring Awakening' for Pacifica Spindrift Players in the winter," he says.

"In musicals, choreography is so important as it allows the story to flow through the artists' movements and dance. It elevates the story telling and allows the artist to express their emotions that can't be contained with the delivery of dialogue or songs.

"It's been a great experience working with Cat. She is truly a talented artist. She is very good at teaching choreography and is very patient with the actors. I will definitely want to work with her again in the future!"

Proud

This is not Reyes' first production with Tri-Valley. She has co-choreographed "Jesus Christ Superstar," "The Little Mermaid" and "The Hunchback of Notre Dame."

Filipino American actors Simon Santos (left) who plays Xiao and Ann Warque who plays Mei Lin rehearsing for "The Song of the Nightingale."

As a performer, her credits include "In the Heights," "West Side Story," "Tarzan" and "Grease."

A California native, Reyes began her dance training in high school. "For most of my life, until high school, I played basketball. Eventually, I decided I didn't want to continue it but still needed a form of movement, so I tried out dance and never went back," she says.

She currently teaches at different studios in the Bay Area in the styles of hip hop, jazz and contemporary. She's also a teaching artist, choreographer, and performer with Kaiser Permanente's Educational Theater.

She's also choreographed national award-winning dances for small groups and solos. Her passions are her students and teaching them in hopes that they find the same love in the arts as she does.

"What I hope to achieve for the choreography in this show is that it's fun and that you feel like you're having a good time," she says. "I also want to make sure I tell a story and display who the characters are as a person through every movement. I hope the audience takes away the amazing aspect that it's an all Asian American Pacific Islander cast and staff in this show. I'm so proud of that!"

Visit Trivalleyrep.org. 

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https://usa.inquirer.net/127311/fil-am-choreographs-hans-christian-andersen-fairy-tale-musical

Two Filipino Americans portray key ‘Lady’ roles in ‘The King and I’

By WALTER ANG
April 19, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

LOS ANGELES — Filipino American actors Joan Almedilla and Paulina Yeung star in vital roles in La Mirada Theatre's upcoming production of the beloved musical "The King and I."

Paulina Yeung (left) and Joan Almedilla

Almedilla will play Lady Thiang, the king's chief wife, and Yeung will play Tuptim, the young romantic lead. Both actors are revisiting roles that they've portrayed in previous productions of this work with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics and book by Oscar Hammerstein.

Based on the experiences of Anna Leonowens and set in the late 1860s, the musical is about how she is hired by the King of Siam (now Thailand) to be an English tutor for his children.

Revisit

This is the fourth time that Yeung is portraying Tuptim. "The most recent time was at Drury Lane Theatre in London last year. And prior to that were the US and UK tours," she says.

As for Almedilla, whose credits include St. Louis Municipal Opera Theatre and the first US tour, she says she is very excited to revisit Lady Thiang. "I still get nervous. The anticipation is nerve wracking!" she says. "The good news is it usually leans toward excitement rather than fear.

"I fear staleness. I fear acting on autopilot, that I'm just a voice, not connected to my whole being and my intentions. To overcome my fears, I practice the art of gratitude and surrender. Gratitude from  getting ready for rehearsal to the moment I enter the stage door until after every show.

"Surrendering happens in every scene. To me it's like giving birth. You can prepare all the things you need but when the baby comes, you just surrender. Some find joy, some feel complete exhaustion but you surrender. And I don't mean giving up. In acting, you surrender to your imagination. When you surrender you leave room for listening and responding."

New approach

Both women explain that working with new collaborators afford different ways of approaching the material and their characters.

"Working with a new creative team and cast makes it fresh," says Yeung. "There's always new things about the character that I discover each time I revisit the role, little details and nuances."

Almedilla says, "Working with a new director is very important to me. I have heard amazing things about our director Glenn Casale, all of which are true. The first thing he said to me was to focus on finding new things about my character rather than finding new ways of doing things. When you search deeper about a character, the doing will come naturally.

"Glenn is intelligent and warm. He shares his vision and leaves room for the actors to find what not only feels right but what fulfills the character's goals. And that involves trying different things. He moves at a fast pace and yet every moment is treated with respect and doesn't feel at all rushed."

Fond memories

Both have fond memories and funny stories of past performances.

Yeung shares, "I've choked while narrating the ballet and have had my costume get caught on the hanging flower vines on stage. Live theater is exciting because you never know what to expect each night!"

Almedilla says that when she was part of the first national tour, it was "extra special because I got to share the stage with my son, CJ Uy. He played one of the royal children. We toured the US and Canada for almost two years together. I will never forget the amazing memories and friendships we made!"

If they could play any male role in the musical, Yeung chooses Lun Tha, Tuptim's romantic partner. Almedilla says, "If you had asked me this question when I was still in my 20s, I would definitely go for Simon of Legree," referring to the antagonist role that requires strong dancing skills. She quickly adds, "Okay fine, now my answer is the King!"

La Mirada Theater's "The King and I" runs April 21 - May 14. Visit lamiradatheatre.com.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/127195/two-fil-ams-portray-key-lady-roles-in-the-king-and-i

Fil-Am wins Young-Howze playwriting of the year award

By WALTER ANG
April 13, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

NEW YORK — Black Filipino American Roger Mason has won the 2023 Young-Howze Award for Mind-Blowing Stage Writing of the Year for the play "Lavender Men."

Roger Mason

"It represents a two-decade journey to be seen and appreciated officially as a playwright," says Mason. "Because I am interdisciplinary, people struggled for many years in the early days of my career to label and categorize me. Embracing me as a writer is embracing the culmination of all the ways in which I comprehend the world through creative expression."

Described as a queer historical fantasia, Mason's play features the fabulous gender non-conformist Taffeta as a post-modern matchmaker who invades the private world of Abraham Lincoln and his queer legal assistant Elmer Ellsworth.

"Because of this award, I am healed. I have come full circle. I am grateful for the boost in confidence. The Young-Howze Award is giving me the momentum and the strength to trudge on in our challenging but fulfilling business."

The awards are given out by theater critics Ricky and Dana Young-Howze. "Lavender Men" was staged last year in Los Angeles by Playwrights' Arena and Skylight Theatre Company. Playwrights' Arena is led by Fil-Am artistic director and founder Jon Lawrence Rivera.

Self-description

Mason is a self-described "Black, Filipinx, plus-sized, gender non-conforming, queer artist of color" and uses they/them pronouns. Their playwriting has been seen on Broadway, Off and Off-Off-Broadway and regionally.

Mason's play "The Pink: An Initimacy Ritual" recently had a staged reading with Primary Stages and Breaking the Binary Theatre.

The play is described as a "hook up performed in real time between two queer people of color seeking true intimacy in the age of dating apps and digital sex." As these two humans, Mel and Herman, grasp for "the real" in the bedroom, their conversations, silences and moments of touch blur the lines between affection, sex and euphoric romance.

Waiting for a Wake

Mason's "Waiting for a Wake" will have a staged reading with Tony and Obie-award winning theater company Page 73 at Open Jar Studios on April 21. Dramaturgy is by Fil-Am Gaven Trinidad. The event is free and open to the public.

The play spends one day in the house of the Brickstones, a Black and Filipino family. Thirty-year-old Quentin dreams of escaping the nest through fashion design. Patriarch Ovid wants to write his memoirs and make all his family members his secretaries. Matriarch Divinia pines for peace in the house and often runs away to find it. Jason plays video games in his room when things don't go his way because it helps quell his rage.

Once a beacon of social mobility, the family is deferred from their American dreams by co-dependence, mental illness and mutual financial abuse. How will they survive their lives without destroying each other completely?

"Waiting for a Wake" was originally commissioned by Leviathan Lab, founded and led by Fil-Am artistic director Ariel Estrada.

Filipino heritage

"My Filipino heritage has influenced all of my writing, actually, not only in terms of character line up, but also tone, structure and aesthetic," Mason says.

Mason's first play involving Filipino characters was "The White Dress," which is "a genderqueer coming-of-age play inspired by the Stations of the Cross."

"Filipino immigrants play a huge role in my play `Hide and Hide,' a take on the term tago nang tago, which takes place in 1980 Los Angeles.  It concerns the sham marriage between a Filipina undocumented immigrant and a gay Texan murder suspect trying to find asylum in the City of Angels."

As for "Waiting for a Wake," Mason says it is forging a space for the Black and Filipino nuclear family as the new protagonists of the American family drama genre. "It is essential for audiences to learn about the true diversity of the American experience.  We are a melting pot."

"My plays, which investigate Filipino heritage and the immigration West, invite audiences to witness the vibrant humanity of people who travel from their homes for the social mobility and bounty that the world claims to offer while never losing sight of the land from which they came.  We are always traversing between worlds trying to find peace and joy in the meantime."

"Waiting for a Wake" is on April 21 at Open Jar Studios, 1601 Broadway, New York. Visit https://ci.ovationtix.com/3082/production/1153874

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https://usa.inquirer.net/126821/fil-am-wins-young-howze-playwriting-of-the-year-award

Filipino American actor recalls life’s joys in Pulitzer winner’s play

By WALTER ANG
April 4, 2023 | USA.Inquirer.net 

NEW YORK — Filipino American actor Orville Mendoza will be playing several characters in Pulitzer Prize winner Suzan-Lori Parks' "Plays for the Plague Year" at the Public Theatre. 

Fil-Am actor Orville Mendoza (left) in "Plays for the Plague Year." 

Part play and part concert, the work is the culmination of Parks' project of writing a play or song a day throughout the pandemic lockdown. The show features a selection of her efforts.

"It's an homage, a love letter and a reclaiming of our lives during the years of 2020 to 2021," explains Mendoza. "It's not all sad. There are lots of laughs too. The most beautiful thing is it feels like a ceremony where we are together collectively sharing in the madness and human comedy that we all lived through."

Mendoza plays gay rights activist Larry Kramer, U.S. representative John Lewis and a musician named Bob, among others. "All of the characters are based on actual people, some famous and some personal to the playwright," he says.

The show premiered last year and returns to the stage this spring. Mendoza has been able to receive feedback from audiences. "Some have called it cathartic and a catalyst for them to be able to address and move on from those events or to come to a deeper understanding of our lives during that time. But mainly it's a vehicle that gets us closer to real reconnection and hopefully celebration of our resiliency and compassion for one another."

Important

Born in the Philippines, Mendoza moved to the U.S. when he was two years old and grew up in southern California. "Performing was always part of my life and I would sing solo or with my family for church."

His entry to acting began when he was recruited to perform as Isaac, who is to be sacrificed by his father to God. "An angel swoops in and stops the whole affair. It was very dramatic. I just had to lay there but I loved imagining myself as someone else in extraordinary circumstances."

Mendoza has worked extensively with East West Players in Los Angeles, appearing in "Sweeney Todd" in the lead role, "Into the Woods" and "Pacific Overtures." He played the Engineer in the second national tour of "Miss Saigon." Broadway credits include "Peter and the Starcatcher."

Mendoza says that the show has taught him what is really important in life. "Friends and family. People in general. I play a character in one of the plays that deals directly with the loss of community in the pandemic. The loss of his entire world.

"We go on grinding through life always pursuing bigger projects, more money or more recognition. The play and the pandemic itself taught me to look at what I already have, things that I take for granted, and realize that I already have everything I need to be happy and fulfilled. Life truly is a journey and not a destination. The joy is the journey."

Food and memories

The show will be performed at Joe's Pub, the Public Theatre's cabaret venue that has tables, booths and stools at bar tops where food and beverage is available throughout the performance.

Orville Mendoza

Food also played a part in Mendoza's pandemic coping response. "I totally fell into the sourdough baking fad! My good friend, actor-director Alan Muraoka, started a group where we all do the same recipe and share our results on social media. It was so much fun learning new baking skills. Now we do a recipe a month.

"Baking does run in my family. My dad learned to make homemade pan de sal as a student at Philippine Union College. He made thousands of pan de sal over the years. He had his own recipe and really didn't measure anything precisely, just went by feel. They always came out perfectly soft and pillowy. You could never ever eat just one. My dad passed away last year and every time I bake, I feel like he's with me again."

"Plays for the Plague Year" runs April 5-30, 2023. Visit Publictheater.org.

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https://usa.inquirer.net/126190/fil-am-actor-recalls-lifes-joys-in-pulitzer-winners-play