Berde, the newest stage play to hit Cebu

I am excited to watch Focus Production’s latest stage play, Berde, tomorrow at Marcelo Fernan Press Center in Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City. It has been quite a long time since I’ve seen a play, basically because there seems to be a lack of them in Cebu. While I am happy that Cebuano films are gaining ground again, plays should also be supported and promoted. There was a time in Cebu’s history when the province had an abysmally small number of plays produced compared to other places. Later on, the number grew, though, sadly, not maintained. We’re lucky now that we are treated to maybe five plays a year that are really produced by Cebuanos. Or perhaps there were others but lack the promotional machinery to get as many people as they want to to watch them. 

When I received an invitation to take pleasure in the theatrical experience that is offered by Berde (which literally means “green” in English), I grabbed it. It is considered “one of the most exciting pieces of theater production to hit Cebu in a long time”. It is actually the longest running stage play in Cebu with 40 performances, which is already a great feat in itself in the local theater industry. After it will be shown tomorrow and Monday in Cebu City, it will tour the other cities and municipalities in Cebu starting September.

Here is pitch of the play and what it is about:

Berde is about the lives of Edwin and Butch and their seemingly unorthodox love affair. Both come from a rich prominent but unstable family. Edwin has a strict military captain for a father, who without discreet curses his son, and a mother who spoils him and dresses Edwin up as a girl when he was still young. Butch, on the other hand, has a drunkard for a father, who left him when he was young, and a cold and frigid mother who accepts Butch as he is.

The play starts with the not-so typical acquaintance of two individuals who are outwardly different in appearance. As the story progresses, the audience are ushered to the wealthy and grandiose house of Edwin which metaphors their social status. The conflict unfolds when Edwin’s father comes home and sees the truth about his son. 

Teaser scene (Photo by Focus Productions and Services)

Berde is directed by Loyd Sato, the same genius behind “Piring” and “Bus Terminal”. I remember him from my sister’s college days when she was a member of the theater guild at the University of San Carlos. Through Berde, Sato is challenging a norm. The production group, though, emphasized that while Berde is gay themed, it is not a gay love story; it’s simply a love story.

The play is written and translated in Filipino by Sato from the original material titled, “Clash of the Cymbals” by National Artist Wilfredo Ma. Guerrero. 

The Cast (Photo by Focus Productions and Services)

Who will be performing the characters? Edwin Ocampo will be performed by Troy Tomarong and Jan Alfie Bartolome. Butch Gavino, the charming, put-together, good looking guy who finds himself in love with Edwin will be portrayed by Clint Solante. Rachel Laya-og, Andrea Patena, and Ansel Ancajas will give life to Charo Ocampo, the indulgent and permissive mother of Edwin and the submissive wife of Arman. Josh Eballe and Christopher Lingao will interpret Arman Ocampo’s character - the stern and unyielding father of Edwin who despises his son’s sexuality.

Let’s catch them on their last run here in Cebu City before they hit the road.

Show dates: August 26 and 27, 2012

Show times: 9:00am, 11:30am, 2:00pm, 4:30pm, 7:30pm

Venue: Marcelo Fernan Press Center at Lahug, Cebu

For ticket inquiries, please contact 0923-747-0900 or email at focus_productions@ymail.com.

Of course, I will post a review of the play after I’ve seen it. For now, I personally look forward to a green Sunday. ;-)

- Nancy -