Twin bill pays homage to movie, TV and stage actor, National Artist for Theater Tony Mabesa

After the success of “Nanay Bangis” and “Mga Anak ng Unos,” Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas

(Dulaang UP) returned to the stage by paying tribute to its founder and National Artist for Theater Antonio ‘Tony’ Mabesa. The tribute, titled “Para kay Tony: Tungo sa Ginintuang Alaala,” was a twin bill that showcased two productions which ended yesterday that capture the spirit of Dulaang UP’s nearly five-decade history.

The first half of the twin bill was a staging of “Kalahating Oras sa Isang Kumbento” by legendary Filipino playwright Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero as translated by Lilia F. Antonio. The story follows Yolanda, a student at a convent school, who seeks comfort and companionship after being expelled.

​UP Diliman Theatre Arts student Lloyd Sarmiento Uy served as director, alongside director-mentor Erika Estacio. The cast included Kris Caaya, Rona Lynne, Jan Magcaling, Paulyn Abando, Janna Talampas, Gena Suelto, and Sheryll Ceasico.

​The second play in “Para kay Tony” featured National Artist Rolando Tinio’s “May Katwiran ang Katwiran.”

The staging was led by Theatre Arts student MJ Briones with director-mentor Charles Yee. Acted in the play were Francheska Andaya, Julianne Quimio, Akin Cullarin, Pat Ebro, Kerr Allen, Camille Fabian, and Daniel Duplon.