‘Balete’ kicks off Tanghalang Pilipino’s 38th season

Tanghalang Pilipino, the resident theater company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), kicked off its 38th Season over the weekend with its latest theatrical production “Balete.”

"Balete" is a play based on the novel "Tree," the second book in the "Rosales Saga" written by National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose.

It tells the story of Francisco, or Kiko, who looks back on his childhood in Rosales and his relationship with his Papang (father), Don Espiridion.

Kiko, played by multi-awarded actor Nonie Buencamino, takes the audience on a journey of his twelve-year-old self, surrounded by friends from different social classes, loyal servants who have devoted their lives to his family, and relatives with deep-rooted expectations.

The story, despite being written in 1978 and being a historical novel, still plays a vital message in today’s time, especially for Filipino farmers. It highlighted their struggles, pain, and journey in fighting and demanding their rights to own land.

Adapted for the stage by award-winning playwright Rody Vera, "Balete" shows a deep impression that power and privilege profoundly affect the development of human welfare and societal structure.

Aside from Buencamino, the play's cast also features Jonathan Tadioan, Marco Viaña, Lhorvie Nuevo-Tadioan, Toni Go-Yadao, Gelo Molina, Earvin Estioco, and Ynna Rafa.

"Balete" runs until October 6, Fridays to Sundays, at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez in Pasay City.

Tickets are available via TicketWorld and Ticket2 Me.

—CDC, GMA Integrated News