Adarna bird takes flight

The Adarna bird according to Filipino folklore, has a very melodious singing voice and it sings seven magical songs. Every time the bird finishes its song, its feathers change into a more beautiful shade and become shinier. The Adarna’s songs have the power to lull anyone to sleep and its droppings can turn anyone into stone and cure any type of afflictions.

In the Kingdom of Berbania, the king becomes mysteriously ill and only the voice of the Adarna can cure him, as foretold by a healer. Thus, his three sons, Don Pedro, Don Diego and Don Juan, successively start on a quest to capture the bird, to save their father from imminent death.

Originally billed as "Corrido at Buhay na Pinagdaanan nang Tatlong Principeng Magcacapatid na Anac nang Haring Fernando at nang Reina Valeriana sa Cahariang Berbania," Gantimpala Theater brings the corrido to life on the legitimate stage, under the direction of Roobak Valle (who is also its production designer).

Performances are at 7 p.m. on September 21, Concert at the Park open-air auditorium, Luneta, Manila; at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on September 26-28, October 3-5 at the AFP Theater, Camp Aguinaldo, Q.C.; and at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on October 10-12 at SM South Mall, Las Piñas City.

The present production appropriates the rich, colorful pageantry of the Maranao culture as its enchanting setting with glittering costumes, fabulous scenery, spirited performers and fantastic choreography.

It also serves as a tribute to the late National Artist for Dance Ramon Obusan as the dances of the cultural communities of Mindanao that he researched and propagated are used in the production to highlight the adventures and triumphs of Don Juan.

Giving life to the characters of this well-loved tale are Aaron Villaflor, Don Juan; Roeder Camañag, Don Pedro; Arkin Da Silva, Don Diego; Kimberly Diaz, Maraya/Maria Blanca; Joey de Guzman, Ermitanyo with Jerald Napoles as alternate; James Eustaquio, Haring Fernando; Pamela Hundana, Reyna Valeriana; Billy Parjan, Manggagamot; Abel Napuran, Orlando; and Mathew Manalaysay as the Ibong Adarna.

Assisting director Valle to realize the world of Ibong Adarna are Andy Villareal, lighting designer; Raul Nepomuceno Jr., choreographer; Charyl Chan-de Guzman, production manager; Joey David, stage Manager; and and Tony S. Espejo, artistic Director.

For details on bookings and ticket reservations, call the Gantimpala Theater marketing office at 899 5745, 896 3503, 474 5198 or email gantimpalatheater@yahoo.com.ph