Star Powerhouse

"If we are to go by the dictionary definition of "iconic" as something that is "widely recognized and well -established" and is "acknowledged especially for distinctive excellence," then we could honestly say that we have many such jewels in our collection. It wouldn't be possible - or even fair -- to fit them all in one production. So how about two?

I guess we all grew up embracing the fantasy and mystical story of Ibong Adarna. The tale of this eponymous magical bird has remained alive since the 15th century and we should be grateful enough that this famous epic has become part of our basic curriculum in high school, otherwise, we may not have the chance to explore the wonderful world of Ibong Adarna. Looking back at our old lectures, you might have learned that the author behind this so-called Corrido remains unknown yet others are claiming that it is Jose Dela Cruz or more commonly known as Huseng Sisiw.

“Ibong Adarna,” one of the most celebrated Philippine literary masterpieces, enchants audience anew as part of the 39th season of Gantimpala Theater Foundation (GTF). This classic tale of love, deceit, and forgiveness follows the journey of three brothers from the kingdom of Berbanya (Don Diego, Don Pedro, and Don Juan) and their pursuit to catch the magical healing bird, Adarna, to help save their ailing father, king Fernando.