Student theaters still thrive.
Former Philippine Normal University (PNU) professor Gloria Andrada, actors Niño Muhlach and Ernie Garcia, among others were active in student theater productions where they mounted stage plays, mostly historical and educational, until they put them aside for personal reasons.
But many are still at it like Bulwagang Gantimpala which, once in a while, ventures in this type of mobile theater. Actress Ann Villegas also runs a theater group that caters to schools, private and public.
Ann's current theater offerings are "Noli Me Tangere," "Florante at Laura," among other productions.
Villegas' favorite actor who consistently portrays Dr. Jose Rizal is Juan Rodrigo.
"Maganda ang pagtanggap sa amin ng mga eskuwelahan sa buong Pilipinas (The reception of schools in our plays are inspiring)," said Juan in an exclusive interview.
While these days, Ann's theater productions are off-season, Rodrigo commits himself to his other multimedia berths.
JR's (Juan's pet name) experiences with Villegas' company are worthwhile.
"Maganda ang sinasabi ng mga guro at estudyante sa aming pagtatanghal (The feedbacks of the teachers and students on our plays are encouraging)," attested Rodrigo.
In Rizal Province alone, Juan testified, there are a lot of schools that appreciate Ann's stage presentations.
"Naku, dito sa Rizal, maraming nagre-request ng aming (Here in the province, many are requesting our) 'Noli Me Tangere.' And this is a musical," he beamed.
Without bragging, though, JR said, he is always requested by teachers and students.
The actor lives in Cainta so it's easy for him to move from one place to the other starring in the play.
"Sana, marami uiit magprodyus ng student theater. Najakatulong talaga sa edukasyon ng mga kabataan (I hope there will be more producers of student theater. It is indeed helpful to the youth)," JR quipped.
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