VIRGIN LABFEST 13: WAGAS! June 28 – July 16 2017 Cultural Center of the

SYNOPSES OF THE PLAYS

FEATURED WORKS Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theater)

SET A June 28, July 7, 12, 16 – 3:00PM | June 28, July 6, 11, 15 – 8:00PM

Loveteam Playwright: Oggie Arcenas; Director: Michael Williams

To earn his place among the stars in show business, Allen is willing to pay any price and to commit to any sacrifice. But what if it is not his sacrifice that the gods of fame and fortune demand, but that of his only friend’s?

Cast: Alex Yasuda Andrei Vegas Stage Manager: Mara Agleham

Oggie Arcenas Oggie is an active member of the Writer’s Bloc, an organization of playwrights that is based in Metro . Although this is his 4th trip to the VLF and is now considered a VLF “veteran”, he still regards himself as a newbie when it comes to playwrighting, and feels that he still has an enormous amount of learning and writing to do before he can consider himself a “true” playwright. Oggie has a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Michigan State University, with Environmental and Natural Resource Economics as his area of specialization. After completing his graduate degree, he worked for the World Bank in Washington D.C., but decided to move back to the Philippines in 2005 after living in the United States for thirteen years. Currently, Oggie is a member of the faculty of the U.P. School of Economics in Diliman, and just recently discovered the joys of owning a pet dog.

Michael Williams With over 100 roles to his credit, Michael has been performing in Philippine theatre since 1982. He began his career in Repertory Philippines’ production of “A FLEA IN HER EAR” which is an English translation of the French farce “Le Dindon”. Within his first year at Rep, Michael progressed from ensemble and support roles to playing romantic lead-roles as well as comic character roles. In 1984 Michael received great notices for his performance in “AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’” a musical review featuring the work of jazz great, RCA recording artists Fats Waller.

In 1989 Michael was chosen to be part of the original London cast of “MISS SAIGON” in London’s West End. After a year with that company, Michael moved on to perform in yet another West End musical – Rogers and Hammerstein’s “THE KING AND I” produced for the centennial celebration of the Hammerstein Estate in 1990, with Richard Hammerstein Jr. directing. In this production Michael essayed the role of Lun Tha the romantic lead.

Since Michael’s return to the Philippine theatre scene, he has turned in a few more sterling performances. Most notable of these were his portrayal of the tragic hero Javert in the musical, “LES MISERABLES,” and Don Quixote in “MAN OF LA MANCHA,” Dr. Jekyll in “JEKYLL AND HYDE” and won a special citation from the GAWAD BUHAY AWARD for playing the role of Captain Hook in Rep’s “PETER PAN”

He is currently an Artistic Director of Full House Theatre Company, the theater division of Resorts World Manila. He has performed with this company in the original Pilipino musical production of “BITUIN WALANG NINGNING,” and as Tick in “PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT.” His directorial credits for Full House Theater Company include Rogers and Hammerstein’s “CINDERELLA”, and their most recent production “ANNIE", for which he won the GAWAD award for Best Direction of a Musical.

Michael is very honored to be directing this wonderful piece by Oggie Arcenas for the Virgin Lab Fest, and to be working with two very talented actors Alex Yasuda and Andrei Vargas.

Michael appears through the courtesy of Resort World’s Full House Theater Company.

Pilipinas Kong Mahal with All The Overcoat Playwright: Eljay Castro Deldoc; Director: Roobak Valle

Ambet and Nato are behind a satirical news website that has gone on to become too popular-- almost to a fault. Ambet, on the one hand, no longer wants to write fake news stories, even though his pieces always go viral on social media. The worst part about it, people believe them as true. Nato, on the other hand, is very much driven to keep their website alive, especially now that business is doing good.

Ambet has made up his mind on leaving their business, but Nato would not let him. Things take a turn for the worse when a client comes in, demanding for a falsified account that would revise an important part of Pilipinas Kong Mahal's history. At gunpoint, Ambet and Nato discover that the real enemy might actually be too close for comfort.

Cast: Fitz Bitana Paul Jake Paule Chunchi Cabasaan Anthony Falcon Stage Manager: Hartzel Lim

Eljay Castro Deldoc Eljay Castro Deldoc earned his degree in Communication Arts from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. His original plays include "Owel", "Ang Goldfish ni Prof. Dimaandal", "Si Maria Isabella at ang Guryon ng mga ", "Ganito ang Pinangarap Kong Kasal", and "Kasaray Duma: Mga Supling ng Sigwa". He also penned stage adaptations of Filipino novels, namely "Para Kay B", "Ang Favorite Book ni Jude", and "Ligo na U, Lapit na Me The Musical". His most recent works are "Sylvia Q." and "Ang Muling Pamumukadkad ng Vanda sanderiana". Eljay is a member of the Writers Bloc and The Quiapo Collective. He is also a founding member and the artistic director of Tabsing Kolektib, a Manila- and UPLB-based theater guild that produces stage adaptations of Filipino contemporary literature. Read some of his works at https://deldoctrines.wordpress.com/.

Roobak Valle He studied Mathematics in college yet chose a career in the arts. He is an actor, a director, a choreographer, writer and workshop facilitator. He is presently a Resident Director for the Gantimpala Theater Foundation. He rarely hesitates to accept work from other theater companies.

Birdcage Playwright: Rick Patriarca; Director: Ian Segarra

As the two of the longest-staying employees in the BPO company, Ed and Arthur have seen the departures of many colleagues from work. When their young and optimistic teammate resigns to pursue his dreams, the two contemplate yet again about their future in the industry, and on everything they have sacrificed to secure their comfortable lives.

Cast: Gie Onida Aldo Vencilao Jerome Canlas Stage Manager: Jorrybell Agoto

Rick Patriarca Rick Patriarca is an MA creative writing student at the University of the Philippines Diliman. He currently works full-time as a web content writer and campaign specialist for a BPO company in Eastwood, Quezon City, and does freelance writing gigs on the side. He is an active member of the Writer’s Bloc, an association of aspiring and established playwrights in the Philippines. Rick's first produced play, the satirical comedy “Hapag-Kainan”, was a part of the 12th Virgin Labfest last year. He also writes fiction and non- fiction from time to time. He is 21-years old.

Ian Segarra Ian Segarra is a Senior Artist-Teacher from the Philippine Educational Theater Association. As a performer, he has been part of PETA's Batang Rizal, Mga Kwento ni Lola Basyang, Ang Post Office, Noli at Fili: Dekada Dos Mil, don_Q, William (Gawad Buhay Best Male Lead in a Play), and The Tempest Reimagined. He is part of international touring productions Coke (Kobalt Works), The Story of the Little Gentleman (Jienkyo) and Strong Boy, Deaf Boy and Girl in an Abaya whuh toured in different parts of Europe and Asia. He has directed FNL (PETA), Mga Kwentong Asyano (DLSZ), and When Sam Met Jo (VLF 11). He is currently teaching Theater Arts at the Philippine High School for the Arts.

SET B June 29, July 2, 8, 13 – 3:00PM | June 29, July 7, 12, 16 – 8:00PM

Ang Mga Puyong Playwright: Ryan Machado; Director: Ricardo Magno

One summer in the middle of a rice field somewhere in Romblon, two young boys come to terms with their impending transition to adulthood. As they prepare themselves for the imminent rite of passage, they will realize that despite their perceived knowledge of the world, their life is still with much doubt and wariness. Their conversation about life, friendship, and sexuality shows a glimpse into the hopefulness yet uncertainty of adolescence.

Cast: Ahmed Maulana Reynald Santos Stage Manager: Alpauline Peña

Ryan Machado Ryan Machado graduated cum laude from UP Manila with a degree in BA Philippine Arts. A full-time communications manager at IBM Philippines, he also dabbles in photography and filmmaking. He started becoming serious with filmmaking after attending the 1st Summer Film Camp in La Union in 2015. The next year, he enrolled in a directing workshop under the tutelage of John Torres, who became his mentor.

His first short film Engkwento was selected as a finalist in the Narrative Category in the Globe Independent Film Festival (2017). It was filmed in his hometown, Looc - a place that holds dear to his heart and is always the setting of his works.

Ryan was a fellow at the 1st Nueva Ecija Personal Essay Writing Workshop conducted by the award-winning essayist Wilfredo Pascual. He is a huge fan of the Virgin Labfest and has been a religious follower since its inception. “Ang Mga Puyong” is the first- ever play he submitted and also his first to be staged at the Virgin Labfest.

Ricardo Magno Ricardo Magno trained with the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company from 2012-2015. Past performances include: Ibalong; San Andres B.; Pahimakas sa Isang Ahente; and Der Kaufmann. Recent directing credits include: Sinagtala for Teatro Kolehiyo ng Miriam; Bahay-bahayan, Tagu-taguan for the 12th Virgin Labfest; and Peratedes for Teatro Kaligatan Foundation. He represented the Philippines as a delegate to the 2017 APB Drama Festival (Shanghai, China); 2016 Asian Performing Arts Forum (Tokyo, Japan); and 2012 APB Drama Festival (Taipei, Taiwan).

Hindi Ako Si Darna Playwright: Maynard Manansala & U Eliserio; Director: Andoy Ranay

What happens to a hero when she grows old fighting crime? When she chooses justice over romance, will she ever find love? When she treats her only family as a sidekick, what legacy will she pass on? If the longest relationship she has is with her mortal enemy, has she lived a good life? Hindi Ako si Darna asks, "What if our heroes aren't super? What if they aren't even heroes?"

Cast: Tetchie Agabayani Kim Molina John Lapus Ricci Chan Ekis Gimenez Stage Manager: Rodney Barnes

U Z Eliserio U Eliserio teaches popular culture at the University of the Philippines, Diliman. He is the author of Kami sa Lahat ng Mataba, a collection of criticism.

Maynard Manansala He is currently involved in a Juana Change Team project that showcases EJK monologues and a community theater production that honors Katipunero Apolonio Samson. He finishd BA and MA Filipino: Malikhaing Pagsulat from UP Diliman, where he is also completing his PhD in Filipino: Pagsasalin. He attended the UST National Writers Workshop and Iligan National Writers Workshop. He won the Palanca for his children’s story.

Andoy Ranay

Boses ng Masa Playwright: Joshua Lim So; Director: Guelan Luarca

Year 2004. After consistently polling at number one, senate contender Ramon Corrado now lags behind Pugon, a political rival who orchestrated a smear against him. Then two weeks leading up to the Philippine General Elections, RC stalwarts Chris and Hector, both of whom are employed by the campaign, get their hands on a sex video involving Pugon’s son. Hector sees no other logical course of action but to upload the video online and let the public take charge of bringing down the corrupt and powerful Pugon clan. Moreover, this will both propel RC back to top rank and reinvigorate their careers. Chris contests this approach, and it has everything to do with the woman in the video and her prospective audience.

Cast: Renan Bustamante Jerome Dawis Jonel Mojica Stage Manager: Lyka Bernal

Joshua Lim So Joshua Lim So is a restaurateur, director, and writer. He was shortlisted for the BBC International Radio Playwriting Competition for “Regarding Angela” (2012), which envisioned the Philippines under another oppressive and bloodthirsty regime, and won the Regional Prize for Asia for “Disciples” (2013). He is a recipient of six Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature for his full-length and one-act plays in English and Filipino. He received citations from “The Year’s Best Fantasy & Horror 20th Annual Collection” (2006) and “The Routledge Concise History of Southeast Asian Writing in English” (2010). His fiction has been published in anthologies and magazines such as “A Different Voice”, “The Best of Philippine Speculative Fiction”, and “Plural Prose Journal”. He directed several plays for Destiyero Theater Commune: “Acts of Piracy”; “Cubao Pagkagat ng Dilim” (3 plays by Tim Dacanay adapted from Tony Perez’ short stories); “May Pakpak ang Oras atbp. Dula ni David Ives”; “Joe Cool: Aplikante”; among others. He was a Bienvenido N. Santos Creative Writing Center Fellow for Drama. Born and raised in Davao City, he left his hometown in 2004, at 16, to attend De La Salle University. He is co-owner and recipe developer of Exile on Main St., a hole-in-the-wall restaurant and ice cream parlor in Malate and Katipunan. He is open to suggestions for new ice cream flavors.

Guelan Luarca Guelan has been writing, translating, directing, and acting for the theater ever since his high school days in Ateneo High School's Teatro Baguntao. He has won first prize in the Palanca Awards for his plays "Mga Kuneho" and "Bait," both of which were staged at the VLF. Last year, he adapted and directed Lualhati Bautista's Desaparesidos (Ateneo ENTABLADO) and wrote the one-act comedy "Mga Lihim...ni Mang Ambo, Taxi Driver" (dir. Roobak Valle; Women Who Launch) – both anti-Marcos plays – and translated Anna Ziegler's Boy (dir. Ed Lacson; Tanghalang Ateneo). Earlier this year, he adapted Edgar Calabia Samar's novel Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabun (dir. Charles Yee, Tanghalang Ateneo), translated Sarah Kane's Cleansed (Purgado; dir. Gabo Tolentino, Dulaang Laboratoryo), and directed an amalgamated version of the Greek classic Oresteia, based on works by Aeschylus and Sophocles (Dulaang Laboratoryo). He is a literature graduate from the Ateneo and is pursuing a career as an educator. This is his second time to direct for the VLF.

SET C June 30, July 5, 9, 14 – 3:00PM | June 30, July 2, 8, 14 – 8:PM

Si Dr. Dolly Dalisay at ang mga Ladybugs Playwright: Layeta Bucoy; Director: Jonathan Tadioan

When entomologist Dr. Dolly Dalisay persuades her contractual technician mother Leticia to sign the report on their project's initial phase, the latter refuses: she doesn't sign reports she did not write. Dolly offers to type the report as her mother dictates it to her, but Leticia prioritizes rehearsing for a dance contest. With the impending withdrawal of Gates Foundation as the project's funding agency, Dolly has to act fast. Will she lose funding and the chance to once and for all free Southeast Asia's rice yield from the deadly tungro virus or will she lose her mother?

Cast: Celeste Legaspi-Gallardo Dolly de Leon Stage Manager: Jerome Aytona

Layeta Bucoy Layeta P. Bucoy earned her MFA in Creative Writing (with high distinction) degree from De La Salle University and her BA Communication Arts (cum laude) degree from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Some of her stage play credits include Doc Resurrection: Gagamutin ang Bayan Bona, Walang Kukurap, and Sandosenang Sapatos. She is a faculty member of UP Los Baños and serves as a columnist for Pinoy Paparazzi Commuter via the short story section #lovelife and for Pinoy Paparazzi tabloid via the serialized noveld under #rmancenoval. She is a member of the Writers Bloc.

Jonathan Tadioan Jonathan Tadioan, also known as Tad is a 9th time Gawad Buhay Wward nominee A veteran of Virgin labfest from 2 to 13. he has done more than 4 dozens of straight and musical play a from classics to contemporary. He is the youngest in the world who played the classic role of Willy Loman in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman.

Ang Bata Sa Bus Stop Playwright: Sari Saysay; Director: Topper Fabregas

Thirty minutes before the sun sets, Matanda awaits the bus that would finally take him away from the walls of the clergy where he spent his life for the last twenty years. Bata, who himself dreams of being a priest someday, approaches him, asks so many questions about priesthood, and interrogates why Matanda prefers to leave. They argue about dreams, love, discontent, roads, and coming home... And then, the rain falls.

Cast: Jojo Cayabyab Omar Uddin Stage Manager: Leah Marcelo

Sari Saysay Sari Saysay is a theatre artist, activist and cultural worker. Although it's his first time to join VLF, he has written over 30 plays over the last decade, usually narrating social issues and people's struggles. He founded, and is the current artistic director of Bicol-based cultural group, Sining Banwa. On normal days, he writes, teaches theatre, and talks to the moon.

Topper Fabregas As an actor, Topper's Virgin Labfest credits include Dingdong Novenario's DIGITAL DIVIDE and WENDY WANTS TO BE A HOUSEWIFE, as well as the staged reading of Rossielle Manicad's THE WEDDING PLANNERS. This is his Labfest directorial debut.

Topper is also one of the founding members of Red Turnip Theater. Credits with Red Turnip include RABBIT HOLE, THIS IS OUR YOUTH and TRIBES, which recently garnered him a Gawad Buhay Award for Outstanding Stage Direction for a Play.

Dear and Unhappy Playwright: Carlo Vergara; Director: Ricky Villabona

In late-19th century Philippines, a disillusioned woman unlocks her true potential, and is given the rare opportunity to become a prominent figure in history.

Cast: Cris Villongco Bernardo Bernardo Lemuel Silvestre Ren Medina Denise Nayve Stage Manager: RJ Deniega

Carlo Vergara “Carlo Vergara's first professional venture into theatre was as an actor for New Voice Company's production of "Angels In America." He later shifted to making comics, and earned critical acclaim for his Zsazsa Zaturnnah graphic novel. His first VLF entry, 2013's "Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady," was turned into a full-length musical by Dalanghita Productions. An Urian award nominee and two-time National Book Award winner, Vergara is also a graphic designer, illustrator, and copywriter."

Ricky Villabona Ricky Villabona is a film director for advertising and commercial projects. He is known especially for his work in beauty product advertising. As a visual artist, he has exhibited his works at the Pinto Gallery and the Ayala Museum ArtSpace. He also teaches film at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. “Dear and Unhappy” is his first project in directing for theater.

SET D July 1, 6, 11, 15 – 3:00PM | July 1, 5, 9, 14 – 8:00PM

Sincerity Biker’s Club Playwright: Adrian Ho; Director: Jenny Jamora

The only bikers' club of Barangay Sincerity welcomes a new member: Louella, a widow from Manila. All five original members are happy about the new addition to their club, except for one who reveals that Louella is rumored to be a drug user and that her husband was killed by the police for being a drug addict. The revelation causes dissent amongst the members. Those who fear for the club's reputation and their safety want Louella out. Some, however, feel that Louella shouldn't be punished for the tragic events of her past. All are faced with a dilemma: will they succumb to fear or will compassion win out?

Cast: Soliman Cruz Chrome Cosio Ring Antonio Frances Makil-Ignacio Jerome Dawis Japo Parcero Stage Manager: Pat Dacanay

Adrian Ho Adrian Crisostomo Ho obtained his BA in English at Simon Fraser University and is currently pursuing his MFA in Creative Writing at De La Salle University. He teaches English and Literature at Southville International School and Colleges and at the College of Saint Benilde. He was a fellow at both the UST and IYAS National Writers’ Workshops. In 2016, his one-act play Billboard won a Palanca Award and his other one-act, Run, Marga, Run, was stage-read at Virgin Labfest 12.

Jenny Jamora SINCERITY BIKER’S CLUB marks Jenny’s return to the Virgin Labfest since directing Reya Laplana’s Sa Lilim for VLF10. She made her full-length directorial debut for stage in Red Turnip Theater’s 33 Variations (2015) and helmed the 8th Gawad Buhay, in which she also received a nomination for Outstanding Stage Direction for 33 Variations. She directed Allan Lopez’s Shhhh for Never Again: Voices of Martial Law (2016). She was last seen on stage in Red Turnip’s The Nether (2017). She holds a Shakespeare Acting Certificate from RADA in London, where she played Juliet in Romeo and Juliet in 2003. Since then, she has been nominated for an Aliw Award for her performance in The Blue Room and has toured Asia for The Vagina Monologues, Aspects of Love (New Voice Company) and A Little Night Music (Atlantis Productions). She holds a Master of Science degree from Texas A&M University. She is a founding member of Red Turnip Theater, and also holds memberships in the Philippine Theater Actors Guild, PhilStage and Artists Welfare Project, Inc.

Nothing But Dreams Playwright: Dingdong Novenario; Director: Carlitos Siguion-Reyna

Gracia comes home after an extended business trip to the US and brings home a surprise for Tatay and Nanay. Both parents are forced to confront their personal prejudices on race and puts their relationship with their daughter at risk, as well as the fulfilment of their American dream.

Cast: Madeleine Nicolas Audie Gemora Lhorvie Ann Nuevo Thao Reyes Stage Manager: Sabrina Manansala

Dingdong Novenario Dingdong is a jack of all trades. He is currently working full-time in a multinational IT company – one of his trades. Aside from that, he is also a freelance gym instructor in Fitness First. Writing remains to be one of his passions, eventually landing him a spot in the Virgin Labfest for Kafatiran, Digital Divide, Wendy Wants to be a Housewife, and last year's Daddy’s Girl. He considers each production a blessing and a valuable learning session. #blessedt

Carlos Siguion-Reyna Carlos Siguion-Reyna is a director for film, theater, and television. Education: M.F.A. in Film from New York University Tisch School of the Arts (New York City); Eric Morris’s acting workshop (New York City); Judith Weston’s workshops in directing actors, and in script analysis and rehearsal techniques (Los Angeles). Films (selection): Hari ng Tondo (Where I Am King)—Special Jury Prize, 2014 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival; Azucena (Dog Food)—Grand Jury Award, 2001 San Diego Asian Film Festival; Ang Lalaki sa Buhay ni Selya—Special Jury Prize, Teddy Awards, 1998 Berlin International Film Festival; Ligaya ang Itawag Mo sa Akin (1997); Ikaw Pa Lang ang Minahal—Best Direction and Best Picture, 1993 Urian Awards, 1993 Film Academy of the Philippines Awards, 1993 FAMAS Awards; Best Film, 1993 Awards; Hihintayin Kita sa Langit—Best Direction, 1992 Urian Awards. Theater: Nothing But Dreams (Dingdong Novenario) for Virgin Labfest 2017; A Midsummer Night’s Dream / Pangarap sa Isang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-araw (William Shakespeare / Rolando Tinio) for Tanghalang Pilipino (2016); Walang Sugat (Severino Reyes, Fulgencio Tolentino, et. al.) for Tanghalang Pilipino (2012). Television (selection): Magpakailanman (one episode)—GMA 7 television drama anthology; Choices—short film on reproductive health and women’s right to choose, aired during the 15th anniversary of ANC cable channel (2011); Aawitan Kita—television program showcasing traditional Filipino music and culture (directed from 1986 to 2005); Aangkinin Ko ang Bukas (Tomorrow Will Be Mine)—Best Movie for Television, 1996 Singapore International Film Festival.

Ang Bahay sa Gitna ng Kawalan Playwright: Eliza A. Victoria; Director: George de Jesus

Isabel waits with her friends in a dark, isolated house, believing it belongs to a powerful being who can help her fulfill her deepest, darkest desires.

Cast: Delphine Buencamino Mara Paulina Marasigan Kevin Posadas

Eliza Victoria Eliza Victoria is the author of several books including the Philippine National Book Award-winning Dwellers (2014), the novel Wounded Little Gods (2016), and the graphic novel After Lambana (2016, a collaboration with Mervin Malonzo). Her fiction and poetry have appeared in several online and print publications. Visit her at http://elizavictoria.com.

George de Jesus III George is an actor, director and playwright. His plays have won awards from the Centennial Literary Competition (Paglayang Minamahal), the NCCA Teatro Bulawan Playwriting Competition (Para Walang Unyon), and the Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature for isang-yugtong dula: Linggo ng Palasapas, Unang Ulan ng Mayo, Kapit; for future fiction: Cell Phone; for dulang ganap ang haba: Sala sa Pito, Maniacal; and for screenplay, Kung Paano Maghiwalay. He is a co-founder of the Egg Theater Company. He is also a freelance corporate events writer and director. He was a member of the Actors Company of CCP’s Tanghalang Pilipino from 1994 to 2000. He has portrayed roles for DUP’s Divinas Palabras, El Publico, Amphitryon, The Duchess of Malfi and the Country Wife. For PETA, he was in Agnoia, Walang , Noli/Fili 2000 and Haring Lear. He has directed for CCP’s Virgin Labfest: Asawa/Kabit, Maganda pa ang Daigdig, Unang Regla ni John, Birtdey ni Guido, Si Uod, Butete at si Myrna, and Marte. He recently played Makbet in College of Saint Benilde, School for Design and Arts’ production of Makbet directed by Nonon Padilla. He is currently directing Kung Paano Maghiwalay for the Egg Theater Company.

VIRGIN LABFEST REVISITED (SET E) Tanghalang Huseng Batute (CCP Studio Theater) July 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 – 3:00PM | June 30, July 1, 7, 8, 14, 15 – 8:00PM

Ang Sugilanon ng Kabiguan ni Epefania Playwright: May Cardoso; Director: Charles Yee

A group of drunken men in front of a sari-sari store somewhere in Negros tell the tale of Epefania, a girl with a foolish heart and a tinge of magic. When Epefania falls in love with the handsomest boy in town, she is sure that she has found the one that her heart wants. So she does everything she can to get him — and almost destroys the universe.

This play is adapted from Ian Rosales Casocot's "The Sugilanon of Epefania's Heartbreak".

Alexandra May Cardoso Alexandra May Cardoso is a graduating Creative Writing major from the University of the Philippines - Diliman. Her writing focus is on fiction and writing for the stage. She was one of the ten fellows of CCP’s Virgin Labfest 11 Writing Fellowship Program (2015). She wrote the libretto for UP Dance Company's Haliya and Other Dances (2015), and has also worked as a production and marketing staff for UP Dulaang Laboratoryo's Museong Kayumanggi (2014). Her fiction has won Third Place in the Short Story category of the 2014 Amelia Lape a Bonifacio Literary Contest. She is a member of the UP Writers Club.

Charles Yee Charles Ivan Ramirez Yee graduated BS Communication Technology Management and BFA Theater Arts from the Ateneo de Manila University. He has received the Loyola School Award for the Arts in Theater. Some of his most recent directorial work include Rene Villanueva’s - Tanghalang Ateneo, Ang Juan Tamban ni Malou Jacob - Entablado, Laot-Lungsod-Langit: Mga Kuwentong Sama-Dilaut - Tanghalang Filipino Integrated and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWS), and Chipline - VLF9.

Ang Bata sa Drum Playwright: Dominique La Victoria; Director: Dudz Teraña

It is a quiet afternoon in the mountains of Northern , and a child punished in the strangest of ways finds comfort conversing with his sister.

Dominique La Victoria Dominique Beatrice “Vix” La Victoria graduated with a double degree in Creative Writing (2014) and Theater Arts (2015) from the Ateneo de Manila University. She is an alumnus of Ateneo ENTABLADO and is a recepient of the Loyola Schools Award for the Arts in Playwriting. She was a fellow for Playwriting at the 20th Iligan National Writers Workshop and her play Chipline was featured in the 9th Virgin Labfest last 2013. She is currently working to pursue her master’s degree.

Dudz Terana Director, Actor, Writer, Choreographer and Teacher. Has performed, choreographed and directed plays both in the Philippines and abroad. He is the Associate Artistic Director of Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) and the Artistic Director or Far Eastern University Theater Guild. He directed Makikitawag Lang ako, Ang Buhay ay Pelikula, Dreamweavers, Sala sa Pito, Ang Unang , Call Time, Kahapon Ngayon at Bukas, Infanta, Dr. Love Please, Babae Yata to’, Mga kuwentong Asyano. His play “BATANG RIZAL”, a children’s musical about the life story of Philippine National hero, frequently performed since it debuted in 2007 has more than 250 performances all over the country.

Mula sa Kulimliman Playwright: Carlo Vergara; Director: Hazel Gutierrez

Estranged from her parents, an ordinary housewife is faced with the shocking truth about her husband, and she is forced to come to terms with a reality that she had believed to be mere fantasy. “Mula Sa Kulimliman” had originally been accepted in the staged reading set of The Virgin Labfest 11.

Carlo Vergara Carlo Vergara is a two-time National Book Award-winning graphic novelist and Urian Award nominee. His acting credits include “Angels In America,” “The Lottery,” and “Towards Zero.” His one-act plays “Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” and “The Missing Peace” have been staged in previous Virgin Labfest festivals, the former moving on to becoming an acclaimed full-length stage musical produced by Dalanghita Productions. His graphic novel, featuring the character Zsazsa Zaturnnah, has likewise been adapted into a successful full-length musical by Tanghalang Pilipino, as well as a feature film by Regal Films.

Hazel Gutierrez Hazel Gutierrez began directing plays for the CCP Virgin Labfest while still earning her undergraduate degree in theater arts at UP Diliman. She is a musician in her own right, currently jamming with the percussion group Brigada. She teaches animation at the Ateneo De Manila Grade School and is currently the Resident Production Manager of Tanghalang Pilipino.

STAGED READINGS Bulwagang Amado V. Hernandez

SET A July 7 – 6:00PM

Point and Click Playwright: Jamie Bautista; Director: Mara Marasigan

A YouTube gamer in Daly City named Mico receives an anonymous email with a download code for a new indie video game, inviting him to do a playthrough video of it for his channel. It turns out to be an old-school point-and-click adventure game where a young girl named Paulina who has been kidnapped and locked in a room is trying to escape. However, when Paulina starts talking and replying to Mico, he realizes that she might just be a real person and somehow he has been given total control over Paulina through his computer, and thus he controls her fate. She tells him that she is a Filipina who lives in Makati and was kidnapped, though she doesn’t know why or how Mico is able to control her body.

The two are forced to work together to try and solve the puzzles of the room Paulina is trapped in to try and win her freedom. The game makes it very clear that if they do not solve get Paulina out of the room soon, she will die. However, as the two start to learn about each other through the course of playing this deadly game, they discover that they may be connected in more ways than they initially knew. And as the choices presented by the game get tougher, they both start to learn more about the nature of freedom, choice, and the limits society places on certain types of people. They learn that they have to make difficult decisions carefully as going through the wrong path might end up with the game taking one or both of their lives.

Cast: Teetin Villanueva Gabs Santos Renante Bustamante Stage Manager: Lorraine Macatangay

Jamie Bautista Jamie Bautista graduated cum laude from the Ateneo de Manila University with a degree in Communications, and has a Masters in Entrepreneurship degree from the Asian Center for Entrepreneurship and Asian Institute of Management. He taught classes in English literature and comics theory and appreciation at Ateneo de Manila University, The Beacon School, Assumption College and Xavier School. He was also general manager at LSA Printing Press. He is a comic writer and publisher who has been in the business for over a decade. He was the publisher of the National Book Award winning Siglo: Freedom and Siglo: Passion. He is the creator of the long-running comic series Cast, and the National Book Award nominated and Anvil Award winning detective comic series, Private Iris. He also published Arnold Arre's most recent graphic novel, Martial Law Babies, under Nautilus Comics. He is currently heading Nautilus Studios, a graphic design company, and is the publisher of Chamber Shell Publishing.

Mara Paulina Marasigan Mara began her first normal training in theater at the age of 12 when she was granted a scholarship from the Philippine High School for the Arts. She carried on to graduate with a degree in Theater Arts from the University of the Philippines where she directed Euripides’ “medea” for thesis. She is currently an assistant director for television, advertising and film. Sside from her ventures in filmmaking, she is also one of the founding partners of the recently formed The Egg Theater Co whose mission is to create contemporary theatre pieces in the Filipino language that evince the modern human condition.

Vertigo Playwright: Nicko Manipis de Guzman; Director: Yong Tapang

It's been three weeks since Ed went to any of his classes in UP Diliman as a sixth year Art Studies major. He's only a few absences away before he drops all of his classes in his second-to-the-last semester before graduation. His reason: he has benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Paula, an activist and long-time friend of Ed, sensed he was gone way too long for just being "sick". She visits Ed to really know what's going on and finds out his actual reason: he doesn't want Art Studies anymore. Will he shift despite being so close to his already-delayed-yet-awaited graduation? Or will he continue studying, hating everyday he has to sit in class to study something he doesn't believe in anymore?

[Ed has benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. A sixth year Art Studies major, he's only a few absences away from being dropped out of all his classes. His friend Paula is concerned that Ed is gone way too long for just being "sick." Soon, Paula discovers Ed's secret that may change the course of his life.]

Cast: Ren Medina Chase Salazar Stage Manager: BJ Orbe

Nicko Manipis de Guzman Nicko Manipis de Guzman graduated at the Philippine High School for the Arts in 2013 and was a writing fellow at the Virgin Labfest 12 Writing Fellowship Program in 2016. He is a member of UP Ugnayan ng Manunulat (UP UGAT), Mulat Pinoy-Kabataan News Network, and the Writer's Bloc. He is an incoming 5th year BA Malikhaing Pagsulat sa Filipino major at the University of the Philippines, Diliman.

Yong Tapang This will be Yong's directorial debut for VLF, and 5th time for the entire 13 seasons (as an actor). Yong is a full-time Marketing (Advertising and Public Relations) practitioner, Director and Writer for Corporate and Special Events. He has directed several plays for CEU Dramatic Guild and other school-based theater groups in the provinces. He also co-founded an independent performing group, O Happy Daggers Production with fellow thespians, producing original plays. He is a photographer, writer, creative director by profession.

Walang Forever Virus Playwright: Fatrick Tabada; Director: Elmer Rufo

Sherley is living together with her long-time boyfriend Ethan. They are the #RelationshipGoalsOfRelationshipGoals, if Sherley was to hipsterly characterize their romance. But times have gone mad. A virus that makes people fall out of love have spread across the Philippines. Couples are breaking up. Love is no longer in the air. Love bugs are nowhere to be found. The Cupid’s arrow is not strong enough to pierce through the heart. In these desperate times where everybody is breaking up, Sherley does everything she can to insulate their relationship from these love-buster parasites.

Cast: Patricia Camille Duremdes Percy Balite Nikki Despi Samantha Cortez Giselle Barrientos Anton Segismundo Stage Manager: Daniel Mark Conti Fatrick Tabada Fatrick Tabada is a freelance writer. He wrote the screenplay of the film “Patay na si Hesus”, a QCinema 2016 film finalist.

Elmer Rufo Elmer Rufo is an Assistant Professor at the University of the Philippines Los Baños. He teaches Theater Arts courses under the Bachelor in Communication Arts program of the Department of Humanities, College of Arts and Sciences. Some of his Directing credits include Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, Brecht's Caucasian Chalk Circle, Lorca's Yerma, Plautus' The Braggart Soldier, Everyman, and Layeta Bucoy's plays such as En Campos de Batalla de Dr. Jose Rizal, Matabagka, Doc Resureccion: Gagamutin ang Bayan, and at . Recently, he was awarded by UPLB as the Outstanding Artist in 2017.

SET B July 14 – 6:00PM

Ang Pag-uulyanin ni Olivia Mendoza Playwright: Rolin Migyuel Cadallo Obina; Director: Emmanuel dela Cruz

If it wasn’t for rapid memory memory loss, arrogant display of unfounded anger, tactlessness and paranoia, Olivia would have been the perfect personification of how it is to age gracefully. Olivia Sandoval Mendoza, 70 years old, and a resident of a home for the elderlies in Malate, Manila is revered and looked up to by her peers and fellow residents as a model of values and good virtues, For them, Olivia’s tantrums is simply part of a person’s natural aging process whom they see would be their future as well. But Olivia is not just simply getting old. She has Alzheirmer’s Disease, a condition that is tormenting her by bringing the of the past.

In fighting her disease that weakens her memory, Olivia needs to fight not just for survival but also for the man of his love, Andres, who is slowly letting go of her after finding out her deepest and darkest secret, a secret she has long forgotten.

Cast: Elizabeth Oropesa Maria Isabel Lopez Skyzx Labastilla Ingrid Joyce Erlinda Villalobos Rener Concepcion Crispin Pineda Teroy Guzman Ronnie Martinez Stage Manager: Ters Tesoro

Rolin Miguel Cadallo Obina Migy Obina is a veteran banker with 20-year experience. But outside the realm of the banking industry, he is an advocate of HIV awareness actively taking part in counseling and training for volunteers and clients of Love Yourself, an organization devoted to self- empowerment among MSMs.

A proud member of the LGBT community and a former beauty queen, Migy has written several award-winning beauty pageant monologues in his hometown in Negros Oriental, despite his lack of training in the field of creative writing.

He attended Mr. Ricky Lee’s Trip to Quiapo Scriptwriting Workshop in 2016 and is an active member of The Writers’ Bloc.

Emmanuel Dela Cruz Emmanuel Dela Cruz, a native of Aparri, Cagayan is a Palanca award-winning screenwriter, creative consultant, theater/film/television director, mentor and actor. He is known for the films MY REBOUND GIRL (2016), SLUMBER PARTY (2012), and SARONG BANGGI (2005). He co-created the television hits PANGAKO SA 'YO and TABING-ILOG, SCQ RELOAD to name a few. He co- produced ANG PAGDADALAGA NI MAXIMO OLIVEROS, ENDO (ufo Pictures) and ZOMBADINGS 1: PATAYIN SA SHOKOT SI REMINGTON (Origin8 Media). His theater work includes ORAS NA, THREE RATS, SEREMONYAS, MGA KUNEHO, KATABI and RUN, MARGA, RUN. He won the FAMAS for KAILANGAN KITA (2002), the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival 2007 Short Film Best Director for the Marawi-shot GABON, and the GAWAD CCP for LARO ( AmBisyon2010). Currently a film faculty in Asia Pacific Film Institute, Far Eastern University, and the ABS-CBN University Moving Images Academy. He mentors for the UFO Directing Actors Workshop, based on the acting school of respected Hollywood guru, Judith Weston. He is the founding chairman of the Philippine’s Independent Filmmakers’ Cooperative (IFC), creator of the IndieSine. His film SLUMBER PARTY will be part of CINE LOKAL's LGBT Film Festival Celebration this June.

Andiyan Lang Playwright: Kevin Tabora; Director: Dennis Marasigan

Inside their condominium unit, Jared and his mother, Vanessa, are both preoccupied with what they are doing. Jared, a 25-year-old insurance agent, is busy preparing for his trip to Ilocos, while Vanessa is looking for her late husband’s missing violin. Eventually, Jared will discover the reason why Vanessa is looking for the violin and the deep sentiment she has for it.

Cast: Alchris Galura Angelina Kanapi Stage Manager, Dan Pelagio

Kevin Tabora Kevin Tabora is a teacher and a writer. He graduated from the University of the Philippines in 2012 with a degree in Communication Research.

In 2012, Kevin joined the Writer's Bloc in search for an avenue to exercise his passion for writing. His first-ever play, Mapagbirong Haplos, was chosen as one of the feature plays in the Virgin Labfest 10.

Dennis Marasigan He graduated BA Theater Arts and Master of Public Administration from the University of the Philippines and has served on the faculty of several universities and colleges. He has held management positions in government agencies and cultural organizations, including the Cultural Center of the Philippines (Technical Director, Theater Operations Manager, Associate Artistic Director and Assistant Vice President for Marketing), Executive Director of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), Artistic Director of the CCP’ resident theater company, TANGHALANG PILIPINO, and President of the Philippine Legitimate Artists Group (PHILSTAGE).

He observed theater and film practices in Moscow, Great Britain, Italy, Japan and Canada, including including attachments and residencies at the Royal National Theatre of Great Britain, Royal Opera House, English National Opera, The Banff Centre, the Shaw Festival Theatre, the Harbourfront Centre, and the National Film Board of Canada. He was the Festival Director for Virgin Labfest 3 and 4 and has directed staged readings in previous years as well as “Isa Pang Soap Opera” by Reuel Molina Aguila (VLF 8) and “Ang Naghihingalo” by Raymund Reyes (VLF 10 & 11). With over 500 credits in theater and other live events, film and television, he continues to mentor young artists while finding time for his creative pursuits.