The original Pinay superhero marks her return to the Philippine stage with a production that combines theater and dance. Ding, Ang Bato!, presented by the Arts and Culture Cluster and the Dance Program of the School of Design and Arts (SDA) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), goes onstage from May 15 to May 21 at the SDA Theater.
Adapted from Darna, the most enduring and iconic Filipino comics character from the classic Mars Ravelo komiks series, this collaborative effort between some of the country’s creative geniuses and outstanding students follow her heroic exploits as seen through the eyes of Ding, Narda’s younger brother.
Ding who was born deaf, goes with her in their journey of empowerment. Described as a truly Pinoy production, Ding, Ang Bato! puts audiences in the middle of a strong theatrical brew of our nation’s pop culture, energetic physical theater, poetic syncretism of Filipino sign language, dance and inventive multimedia and scenic designs.
Highlighting the college’s vision-mission of inclusion, this artistic innovation deepens the public’s understanding of the differently-abled and their viewpoint of the world.
Carlos Serrano, an alumnus of the Dance Program is the main character to play the role of Ding, while Juner Quiambao and John Penaranda, students from School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS), will be the alternates.
Reprising Darna is Christine Crame, Benilde’s Dance Program Chair while Stacy Abarca, an AB Music Production (ABMP) student will act as Narda. Television and stage performer Natasha Cabrera will play the role of Valentina, the heroine’s nemesis.
The musical is directed and with libretto by Chris Millado, Cultural Center of the Philippine Vice President and Artistic Director. The dance is choreographed by Gawad CCP Para Sa Sining Awardee Denisa Reyes and Ernest Mandap. Music is arranged by Ejay Yatco.
Joining the creative team are arts professionals Tuxqs Rutaquio as Production Designer, Jay Aranda as Technical Director and Lighting Designer, Joee Mejias as Projection Designer, Aji Manalo as Sound Designer. Dr. Sunita S. Mukhi is the dramaturg and artistic producer.
Ding, Ang Bato! tickets are priced at P500. For inquiries, contact Kim Eneria at 0920-2992573, and Micca Aldover at 0955-1827445. For updates, visit facebook.com/dingangbato2018 and Twitter @dingangbato2018.