In celebration of the birth centennial of National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin, UP Playwrights’ Theatre stages FATHERS AND SONS and its Filipino translation MGA AMA, MGA ANAK by National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario and multi-awarded writer Jose F. Lacaba. This production opens UPPT’s 26th Theatre Season dubbed as HONORING DEFIANCE.
Set in the mid 70’s, this three-act play revolves around a day in the life of Zacarias Monzon, a man once known as the Caritela King. During the last few days of his life, he attempts to regain his reputation while reminiscing his past wealth, power, and success. The Joaquin classic dares to reveal the cycle of atrocities that linger in a patriarchal household as it resonates themes of identity, resistance, and acceptance.
DUP Founding Artistic Director Tony Mabesa directs the play in collaboration with a powerhouse artistic team composed of Ohm David (set), Eric Pineda (costumes), Meliton Roxas Jr. (lights), Jethro Joaquin (sounds), and Charmaine Aranton and Nour Hooshmand (dramaturgy).
Veteran actors Leo Rialp and Menggie Cobarrubias alternate as the Caritela King, Zacarias Monzon. Other members of the cast include: Rody Vera, George de Jesus and Greg de Leon (as Celo, Zacarias’ son); Stella Canete-Mendoza, Banaue Miclat-Janssen (as Nena, the spinster daughter of Zacarias), Adriana Agcaoili, Issa Litton (as Sofia, Celo’s socialite wife), Belen Calingacion, Olive Nieto (as Mrs. Paulo, Caritela King fanatic), Carlo Tarobal, Tracy Quila, Mark Dalacat (as Chitong, Celo’s son), Candy Pangilinan, Paula Benitez, Sarina Sasaki, Chloe Tandez (as Bessie, a go-go dancer), Vincent Macapobre, and Ian Ramirez (as laborers).
Fathers and Sons | Mga Ama, Mga Anak runs from September 6 to 24 at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, 2nd Floor Palma Hall, UP Diliman, Quezon City. For ticket, show-buying, and sponsorship inquiries, you may contact Camille Guevara (0917 823 9531) or the Dulaang UP Office (Tel. No.: 926-1349 / 981-8500 local 2449 / dulaangupmarketing@gmail.com).
