In a sparkling event at Gateway Mall on October 14, the twelve finalists of the first-ever Puregold Teatro Panalo theater festival were unveiled. Out of a staggering 373 submissions, the selection committee has chosen eight one-act plays and four musicals to showcase at the festival, set to run from February 20 to March 14, 2027.
The selected works reflect a diverse range of themes and creative voices. Notable titles include "The Girl Scout Law" by Rhain Alcoriza, "True to Life" by John Lapus, and "The Boy Foretold by the Stars (One-Act Play)" by Dolly Dulu. Other finalists consist of "Nothing but Dreams" by Ricardo Novenario, "Ang Maayong Balita Sumala Kang Bibo Bautista" by Jude Thaddeus Gitamondoc, and several others, culminating in a robust lineup that celebrates emerging talent in Philippine theater.
Each finalist has been awarded a talent fee of P100,000. Festival director Vincent de Jesus noted that the submissions came from a broad geographic palette, with entries from Manila, Cebu, Zamboanga, Dumaguete, and even the U.S. state of Arizona. This geographical diversity underscores the festival's aim to foster creativity from various regions.
Among the finalists, Jude Thaddeus Gitamondoc's musical, "Ang Maayong Balita Sumala Kang Bibo Bautista," stands out as the only regional entry. Gitamondoc, who has been writing since 2002, expressed his surprise and delight at this milestone, as this marks his first success in a competitive festival.
Gitamondoc's play tells the poignant story of a gay man who enters the seminary driven by feelings for another man, prompting a journey of self-discovery and faith crisis. His unique narrative adds depth to the festival's offerings and highlights new perspectives within the Philippine theater landscape.
Festival chair Ivy Hayangan-Piedad emphasized the importance of this theater festival in providing an accessible platform for ordinary people to engage with live performances, stating that some stories are best experienced in person. She urged the community to embrace the transformative power of theater.
The selection committee responsible for choosing the finalists comprised esteemed professionals, including Vincent de Jesus, director and actor Jenny Jamora, playwright Liza Magtoto, and film director Marlon Rivera. Additionally, recognized artists like Dr. Layeta Bucoy and Allan Lopez assisted in the screening process, ensuring that a high standard was maintained throughout the selection.
Puregold Teatro Panalo is an initiative by the grocery chain Puregold, which has previously celebrated film with its CinePanalo festival. Through the Teatro Panalo, the company hopes to elevate emerging voices in theater and contribute positively to the growth of Philippine arts.
As the festival approaches, anticipation builds around the performances that will bring these unique narratives to life, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines and embracing a new era of theatrical expression.