Nicanor Tiongson’s Mabining Mandirigma returns to the stage with the same promise: to not only entertain but to also educate its audience and it truly did not disappoint. I had the pleasure of catching the opening show and overall, it left me smitten. It was just that good and leaves a lasting impression that’s sure to stick with you for a very long time. The show opened with a powerful number, effectively introducing its titular character, Apolinario Mabini, by showing us his roots and the drive that pushed him towards serving his country. What’s also very notable was the steampunk theme that made every second a delicious smorgasbord to feast your eyes upon: from the set (Toym Imao’s artistic signature sure does ring strong) to the costumes, the undeniably creative integration of the video projection in the show and to the lights—all of it working perfectly together to bring you the visual treat that is Mabining Mandirigma.
Liesl Batucan was truly sublime as the sublime paralytic, wonderfully delivering the demands of the role singing-wise and acting-wise. She offered a warm and endearing flair to the character, bringing Mabini back to life exactly as how you would’ve expected him to be. I cannot say the same about Arman Ferrer’s Emilio Aguinaldo though, whose interpretation differs from how history books and personal accounts describe the former president. Aguinaldo in this musical was not afraid to raise his voice, going up against the chorus and drowning everyone out with his powerful range. The scenes showing their disagreements were definitely entertaining both for the mind and the ears, as you get to see two different ideals clash and their differences further highlighted by Aguinaldo losing his temper in stark contrast to Mabini’s composure.
The show also offers a sweet balance of drama and comedy, with the Ilustrados and three dancers providing comic relief to even out the weight of the more serious scenes, such as Mabini’s monologues. The fantastic choreography compliments the soaring music, sending the audience into wild applause after every major song and dance number.
Mabining Mandirigma’s intellectual content demands the viewers to think not only for themselves but for the Philippines—seeking out to rekindle everyone’s love for the country and its freedom. It’s a fresh retelling of a story that we have already heard of before, for it’s not only an echo of our history but also a reflection of our present. Mabining Mandirigma is not just merely a musical, it’s a rich cultural experience that every Filipino should watch for it never ceases to be relevant, especially now that we are in the midst of looking for a new leader.
Note: This article was written for a magazine in exchange of media passes for the show. I originally wrote it around February 2016 and have not heard again from the editor that I connected with. Since I was never given any confirmation whether or not this piece was published in the magazine or not, I retain my right of ownership over this article, and the right to publish it here along with the rest of my writings.
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