What to know about 'Kisapmata,' the stage adaptation of Nick Joaquin's 'The House on Zapote Street'

Tanghalang Pilipino recently brought to the stage an adaptation of "Kisapmata," based on Mike de Leon's award-winning film and National Artist Nick Joaquin's crime report, "The House on Zapote Street."

Adapted and directed by Palanca awardee Guelan Luarca, the production, which closes the company's 38th Theater Season, delves into the dark realities lurking behind a seemingly perfect Filipino family.

A chilling true story

"Kisapmata" draws inspiration from a real-life incident in 1961, where a retired police detective committed a familicide that shocked the nation. Nick Joaquin chronicled this event in his reportage, "The House on Zapote Street," first published in the Philippines Free Press magazine in January 1961.

The narrative follows a young woman trapped under the oppressive control of her father, a retired policeman. As she falls in love and seeks independence, her father's tyrannical grip tightens, leading to a tragic and violent climax. This story exposes the terrifying consequences of unchecked authority within the family unit.

From page to screen to stage

Mike de Leon's 1981 film adaptation of Joaquin's reportage is regarded by critics and cinephiles as one of the masterpieces of world cinema. The film faced challenges during production, including issues with censorship due to its dark themes. Despite these hurdles, "Kisapmata" garnered critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of domestic horror.

Now, Tanghalang Pilipino brings this haunting tale to the stage, offering a new medium through which audiences can experience its psychological depth. The adaptation aims to immerse viewers in the claustrophobic world of the characters, highlighting themes of control, fear, and the facade of familial perfection.

Cast and show details

The stage adaptation features seasoned members of the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company: Jonathan Tadioan, Marco Viaña, Lhorvie Nuevo-Tadioan, and Toni Go-Yadao. Their powerful performances are expected to heighten the psychological tension and emotional weight of this tragic tale, bringing a fresh perspective to the classic narrative.

"Kisapmata" launched on March 7, and will run until March 30 at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, CCP Complex. Ticket are priced at P1,500 and are available for purchase via Ticket2Me. —JCB, GMA Integrated News