The Philippine Normal University (PNU) Tanglaw Ensemble brings together Philippine mythology, folklore, and pressing environmental concerns in Unplug, its inaugural theatrical production and official entry to the 2026 Asian Youth Theatre Festival (AYTF) in Brunei Darussalam.
A newly established theatre ensemble composed of artist-educators under PNU’s Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education (BCAEd) program, Tanglaw aims to integrate artistic practice and education through theatre. Its name, which means light, beacon, or torch, reflects its vision of using the performing arts to inspire creativity, promote learning, encourage cultural dialogue, and engage communities.
Through theatrical productions, laboratories, research, and community initiatives, the ensemble seeks to develop artist-educators who can create meaningful performances while leading creative and educational activities.
For its debut production, Unplug uses devised and physical theatre, wearable puppetry, and elements of Philippine mythology and folklore to explore climate anxiety, environmental challenges, digital dependence, and collective responsibility.
The story follows Kian, a young individual overwhelmed by climate anxiety, digital distractions, and the uncertainties of a chaotic world. Searching for answers and refuge, Kian escapes into virtual reality, where legendary figures from Philippine folklore come to life through physical performances and wearable puppetry.
However, these encounters do not provide easy answers or a single hero who can solve every problem. Instead, they challenge Kian to confront the realities of the world and recognize the importance of taking action.
As the boundaries between the virtual, mythical, and real worlds begin to blur, Kian faces a question that also challenges audiences: Will people continue waiting for heroes, or will they take responsibility for building a better future?
Through contemporary storytelling, mythology, physical performance, and puppetry, Unplug encourages audiences to examine the relationship between humanity, technology, and the environment. It also highlights the importance of moving beyond passive observation and recognizing how individuals and communities can contribute to a more sustainable future.
The production is conceived and directed by PNU faculty member Joseph Victor D. Deseo, with student performers Roxan Tajonera, Kris Lorenz Guerra, Celso Bitago III, and Kristina Apolinar.
The creative and production team brings together student artists and collaborators from various disciplines. Aerhon Jhon Formadero handles technical direction and lighting design, while Mark Rosadeño leads projection design and Celso Bitago III serves as technical head, with EJ Fernandez and Michael Quizana as technical staff.
Production design is led by Roxan Tajonera, working with Esther Marquez, Jaevee Joi Ngitngit, Jane Belda, Mhary Castañares, and Yshll Manalon. The marketing team is headed by Kris Lorenz B. Guerra, alongside Dawn Salcedo, Yesha Paronable, John Paul Olveda, Charlmer Gulilat, Altezza Villavicencio, and R-Jay Rellora.
Julienne Rose Quintans and Ysan Dagdagan serve as movement consultants, while Fae Bernardino and Merry Grace Risco handle stage management. Production management is led by Kristina Apolinar and Dawn Salcedo.
As its first major theatrical undertaking, Unplug marks an important milestone for PNU Tanglaw Ensemble in bringing together theatre-making and arts education. Its participation in the 2026 Asian Youth Theatre Festival also offers an opportunity to showcase Filipino stories, creative practices, and the work of emerging artist-educators on an international platform for cultural exchange and collaboration.
In preparation for the festival, PNU Tanglaw Ensemble will stage Unplug in November 2026 as part of its fundraising initiative. The performances aim to support the ensemble’s international participation and give audiences an opportunity to experience the production while helping emerging PNU artist-educators bring their work abroad.
Proceeds will help cover expenses related to the delegates’ festival participation, as well as costumes, props, and other production materials.
For announcements, performance schedules, and details about the fundraising initiative, follow the official Facebook page of PNU Tanglaw Ensemble.
