“Silang Katawatawa!” the newest minor production of Artistang Artlets staged last November 17 and 18 at the Rizal Conference Hall has successfully redefined the organization’s concept of theater performance as it tapped political issues regarding proper voting and fair governance. The play’s success could not have been possible without its satirical nature combined with the proper execution of the script, cast, costumes and stage preparations.
In the story, the notorious and over-aged nephew of Congressman Tuazon named Oliver Tuazon (played by Joe Vincent Aguila) came up with a plan to sabotage the upcoming Sanggunian ng Kabataan elections in Barangay Shalala by making his rivals Kathrina de Guzman (Kathrina Bauto) and Patrick Evanghelista (Matthew Taleon) fall in love with each other with the help of his comically mischievous friends. Even though he was successful in establishing a love affair between the two, still he was not able to stop Kathrina in running for the Sanggunian ng Kabataan elections.
Although SK tackled on political issues, it was the use of humor which made the play lively and more entertaining without burying the essence of the story along the way. The characters were clad in simple costumes but it managed to bring out the personality of each character. The stage flourished with much creativity, from the artistic design of the props down to the realistic and seamless acting given off by the cast.
Karla Tajon, who played the role of Denise as one of the loyal and drug-addict friends of Oliver, gave the most outstanding performance. Her execution of the characteristics of a drug-addict in terms of her odd mannerisms and verbal expressions was really amusing and impressive. Also, her high energy performance and mirthful punch lines from the beginning until the end kept the audience to their seats.
Oliver Tuazon, played by Joe Vicente Aguila was equally impressive. His representation of a cruel over-aged nephew of a congressman and a fraudulent competitor to Kathrina and Patrick is really convincing making him an effective antagonist of the play.
Despite of the positive feedbacks, the production is not excused for its flaws. Dull moments arise due to lack of sound effects and the absence of lapel caused some the characters to be less audible. Moreover, some scene intervals brought confusion to the audience because of the untimely transitions of the lights. Such difficulties have greatly affected the clarity of the script and its impact to the audience.
Putting up the final coating of the production, SK has successfully conveyed its message to its viewers in a creative and entertaining way by infusing the story with comedy and by presenting it in a realistic and appealing way. Above all, through the creativity and originality of Artistang Artets, they were able to prove that a stage play can be a powerful tool in touching people’s hearts and in awakening people’s consciousness in the realities that we usually take for granted.
Writer: Marie Angeline M. Pagulayan
