“Lam-ang” takes centerstage this December as Tanghalang Pilipino’s third production for this MAKIDIGMA season (33rd Theater Season, 2019-2020). This ethno-epic musical brings this oldest folk epic in Luzon with utmost respect to its purest elements but, with some modern innovations in consideration of the sensibilities, level of artistic appreciation and cultural education of today’s audiences. Unforgettable songs, movements, dramatic actions and rituals artistically blend the old with the new in this musical.

Lam-ang takes centerstage
JC Santos as Lam-Ang (Handout)

Topbilling this musical is TV, movie and theater actor JC Santos, a graduate of Theater Arts from University of the Philippines- Diliman. Previous to “Lam-ang,” JC appeared in many stage productions including “Orosman at Zafira,” and “Isang Panaginip na Fili.” He received warmest accolades for his well-received turn as Roland in “Constellations,” which paved the way for him to find a niche in mainstream showbiz.

“Lam-ang” marks JC’s stage comeback after years of devoting his time to film and TV projects.

“This is also my first time to bag a lead role in a musical. And, on top of that, this is my first with Tanghalang Pilipino,” adds JC Santos. “I am extremely honored to be part of this production and to work with all these talented artists.”

Lam-ang takes centerstage
Anna Luna as Kannoyan (Handout)

Also debuting in Tanghalang Pilipino is Anna Luna, who impressed audiences with her performance in the stage and movie versions of “Changing Partners.” Anna plays Kannoyan, Lam-ang’s beautiful first love.

“Kannoyan will teach Lam-ang that the power of a lifelong love is far stronger than any loss or victory in a war,” expresses Anna. “I am so honored and grateful for the trust given to me to play this landmark role of Kannoyan.”

Respected stage veteran and a prolific stage actress Tex Ordoñez, former resident actor of Tanghalang Pilipino, lends her powerful voice to Baglan.

Lam-ang takes centerstage
Tex Ordoñez as Baglan (Handout)

JC, Anna, Tex are joined by a host of the most versatile young stage actors in the country, including Lance Reblando, Alvin Maghanoy, Hazel Maranan, Remus Villanueva, Paw Castillo, Joshua Cabiladas, Raflesia Bravo, Alys Serdenia, Miah Canton, Rapah Manalo, VJ Cortel, Gry Gimena, Gabo Tolentino, Francis Gatmaytan, and the members of the multi-awarded Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company – Jonathan Tadioan, Ybes Bagadiong, JV Ibesate, Antonette Go and Lhorvie Nuevo. 

“Lam Ang” is an artistic collaboration among the following: Eljay Deldoc (New Book and Dramaturgy); Jen Darlene Torres (Music and Lyrics); Fitz Bitana (Director); Marco Viaña (Director and Set Designer). Torres is also the composer of songs with TJ Ramos is musical director and sound designer; with JM Cabling as choreographer. Bonsai Cielo is costume designer and Meliton Roxas is lighting designer.

“Lam-ang” runs from December 6 to 15, 2019 at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino, Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Tickets are at PHP 1000 | PHP 1500, available at the CCP Box Office, Ticketworld, Ticket 2 Me, Blimo and the Tanghalang Pilipino office.

For more Theater stories, click here.