No time for slacking as Alice Reyes Dance Philippines' presents its newest addition to its ever expanding repertoire, Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad, that is set to premiere at the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Children's Biennale on November 10, 2024 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit, Makati.
This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.
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| Rebzen Arboleda as Juan Tamad |
The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and BroadwayDesigner, Loy Arcenas.
Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.
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| Karla Santos as Maria Masipag |
The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature, they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy Buwaya, the Gintong Niyog. A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.
Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of Pagong at Kuneho, Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara, and Buwaya at ang Paboreal. Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the Gintong Niyog. Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of Juan Tamad, this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.
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| Dan Dayo as Matsing |
The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.
This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.
Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad will have its debut performances on November 10, 2024, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Register to the various activities by scanning the QR code below.
