PAMAYPAY, KUTSILYO, YANTOK

Tanghalang Pilipino in cooperation with the GMA 7 Artist Center is mounting a trilogy entitled, "Kutsilyo, Pamaypay at Yantok." First presented in 1984 at the University of the Philippines , Kutsilyo, Pamaypay at Yantok is composed of three episodes that probe deeper into the characters of Maria Clara, Salome and Sisa, and the men in their lives – Ibarra, Elias and Pedring, respectively. The three male characters are the roles that the late Marky Cielo dreamt of doing before his untimely death.

The first episode, "Ang Balutan ng Gamot at Pagkain," written by Nick Pichay parodies the usually dramatic characterization of Maria Clara and Ibarra. Tanghalang Pilipino Actors' Company (TP-AC) scholar Tara Cabaero plays Maria Clara opposite AC apprentice Jonathan Tadioan as Ibarra. Marky Cielo was rehearsing this role before he passed away.

The second episode, "Kabanata X," written by Chris Millado is a tender scene between Elias and Salome to be played by Starstruck survivor Ryza Cenon opposite Mike Tan, another GMA 7 artist. Alternating with them are TP's Anna Deroca and Russell Legaspi.

"Ang Nazarena," the third and final episode, also written by Chris Millado, is a violent scene that dramatizes the physical and mental torture that Sisa suffers in the hands of her abusive husband and that leads to the complete loss of her sanity. TP scholar Kat Castillo and PHSA theater arts graduate Meile Romero alternate as Sisa while TP scholars Chrome Cosio and Riki Benedicto alternate as Elias.

Kutsilyo, Pamaypay at Yantok will be staged under the direction of Tess Jamias at the CCP Tanghalang Huseng Batute from January 13 to January 15, 2009 (Wednesday to Friday), with matinees at 3:00 PM and evening shows at 8:00PM. Please call Tanghalang Pilipino at 832-3661 or look for Paolo at 0920-9535381 for other information.