(from the Siklab Lingkod Bikol press statement, January 27, 2024)
Naga City is abuzz with anticipation as the spotlight turns to “Higit sa Pag-Ibig, The Musical” Bikol’s newest and most promising theatre event. This is a collaboration project between The Dawani Project and Sining Banwa. “Higit sa Pag-Ibig” was successfully staged in October 2023 at Ayala Malls, Legazpi with five full house shows and performances given standing ovation from the audience.
This magical play is being brought to Naga City by Siklab Lingkod Bikol SLB and LEARNr Corporation. This theatrical masterpiece is the highlight of the National Arts Month celebration in the city and is poised to be the biggest cultural event of the year. The performance will be staged at the historical Unibersidad De Sta Isabel Auditorium on February 23-25, 2024.
A Tapestry of Resilience and Hope
In its story line, “Higit sa Pag-Ibig” invites the audience to immerse itself in the fictional Barangay Eskwala, a community mirroring real-life struggles of vulnerable Filipinos. Through a rich tapestry of moving performances, the musical weaves together the heartfelt stories of its characters, cutting across themes of family issues, social issues, and climate change, instilling a sense of patriotism, community, and hope in every heart.
Bikolano Brilliance and Pride Takes the Stage
An all-Bikolano cast of 15 members, supported by a passionate production team, brings authenticity and flair to the production. The musical’s score features 18 original compositions by emerging Bikolano artists, including hits from the award-winning Bikolano Singer & Songwriter dwta, Rahuyó, Al Jang, and more. Produced by the Dawani Project, the music promises to be a symphony of emotions, enhancing the overall impact of the powerful storytelling.
Behind the scenes, directing the magic of this musical, is Director Sari Saysay, a seasoned theatre director with an impressive 20+ year career. Sari Saysay’s vision and expertise are set to elevate “Higit sa Pag-Ibig, the Musical” to new artistic heights, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Two Shows Daily: Save the Dates
There will be two shows daily at 2 pm – matinee show and 6 pm – Gala Show. Attendees will have ample opportunities to witness the magic of “Higit sa Pag-Ibig.”
The grand finale on the last day (February 25, 2024 – 6pm) will feature special performances from dwta and other talented Bikolano singers and songwriters. It’s a celebration of local talent, providing a perfect ending to an enchanting musical journey during this National Arts Month.
The Naga City community is being invited to be part of history. Ticket prices for “Higit sa Pag-Ibig, The Musical” start at 300 pesos only. Tickets can be purchased from tickets.higitsapagibig.com or by calling their Box Office Manager, Ms Cha Ibo at 09691389887.
Fundraiser for a Cause
More than just a source of entertainment, “Higit sa Pag-Ibig, The Musical” is a movement for change. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support the disaster-resilient Library-in-a-Box project for Leon Q. Mercado High School in Pacol, Naga City, the Young Leaders Program of Siklab Lingkod Bikol (SLB), and the Marhay Na GIBO (MNG) Bamboo Industry Development Initiative.
SLB Chairperson, Ronald ‘Bong’ Rodriguez believes that this show will help ignite the revival of the Bicolano Theatre Scene and inspire more initiatives for the local Creative Industries.
About The Dawani Project
The Dawani Project, Inc. was founded by JAN ALDRIN BELISARIO (aka AL JANG), a public high school English teacher in Albay. It is an organization that develops young creatives at the grassroots level. It has drawn support from the local arts and music scene, the creative industry, and respected art institutions. For four years, the project has supported young artists with talent—but without the machinery—in film, dance, visual & digital arts, music, etc., through creative camps, workshops, exhibits, public performances, and more. Jan Aldrin, a singer-songwriter, and Fulbright Fellow, is the creative director of Dawani. (reference: Fulbight.org)
About Sari Saysay
SARI SAYSAY is a theater director, actor, activist, and resident playwright of Sining Banwa, a theater group based in Bicol. During the past decade, he has written more than 30 plays in Bikol and Tagalog that tell stories about social issues faced by common people. He is the author of the book about theater titled “Rarom, Rayo” (Depth, Distance). He is also the founder of Taragbo Bikol Theater Network. (reference: Bilog Writers Circle)