Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (Dulaang UP) is set to kick off its 46th Season, titled “SIDHI’T SILAKBO,” on November 23, 2023, celebrating the diverse narratives of women. This season is marked by a groundbreaking double-feature production featuring monologues and masterclasses, all centered around the experiences of women in our contemporary world.
SIDHI – Elevating Philippine Theatre Education: The season introduces DUP Studio, a pioneering initiative in Philippine theatre education. Dulaang UP Alumna and acclaimed actress Dolly De Leon will lead the first-ever master class open to the public, titled “Auditioning for a Role and Landing It.” DUP Studio aims to create a collaborative space for both seasoned theatre professionals and newcomers to learn from each other.
SILAKBO – A Tapestry of Women’s Stories: Directed by DUP Artistic Director Issa Manalo Lopez and Virgin Labfest Festival Co-Director Tess Jamias, “SIDHI’T SILAKBO” features five talented female actors in a collection of reimagined monologues. The production weaves together narratives that delve into the realities women face, emphasizing their ability to assert choices and define their truths.
The season continues in April 2024 with a re-run of the female-led “Kung Paano Nanalo Sa Karera Si Rosang Taba.” In July 2024, Dulaang UP collaborates with the International Federation for Theatre Research (IFTR) and Kolab Co. for a twin-billed staging of Layeta Bucoy’s “Ellas Inocentes” and Eljay Castro Deldoc’s “Walang Bago sa Dulang Ito.”
The all-female season opener, “Sidhi’t Silakbo,” serves as a powerful response to issues of women representation, embodying a celebration of authenticity and diverse female realities. Artistic Director Issa Manalo Lopez sees it as a breaking of stereotypes, with performances fueled by the ferocity and frenzy of women liberating themselves.
Performance Dates and Venue: The Sidhi’t Silakbo production will be staged at the newly-furnished IBG-KAL Theatre on the following dates:
- Nov. 23, 24, 25 (7:30 pm)
- Nov. 26 (2:30 pm & 7:30 pm)
- Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 01 (7:30 pm)
- Dec. 02, 03 (2:30 pm & 7:30 pm)
The DUP Studio masterclass with Dolly de Leon will take place at the IBG-KAL Theatre on November 25, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Ticket Prices:
- SIDHI’T SILAKBO Production: Php 1,300 (regular rate), Php 650 (discounted rate for UP students)
- “AUDITIONING FOR A ROLE AND LANDING IT” DUP Studio with Dolly de Leon: Php 1,200 for sit-in participants, Php 5,000 for mentored participants.
Dulaang UP’s Legacy: Established in 1976 by National Artist for Theatre Tony Mabesa, Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas has been a leading force in producing premier theatre productions. As it enters its second season post-pandemic, Dulaang UP welcomes back students, educators, and enthusiasts to the stage, emphasizing the importance of diverse representation.
For inquiries and further information, contact dulaangup.upd@up.edu.ph. Sponsorship concerns can be addressed to Kate Dayag-Nonay at dulaangup.upd@up.edu.ph.
Contributions from Issa Manalo Lopez, Tess Jamias, Olive Nieto, Jonas Gabriel Garcia, Rodney Barnes, and Davidson Oliveros.
Written by: Marc Stanley Mozo, Holden Kenneth Alcazaren
