Cover CCP Institutional Press Conference 2023: Soprano Lara Maigue performs with the PPO Woodwinds
CCP Institutional Press Conference 2023: Soprano Lara Maigue performs with the PPO Woodwinds
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The Philippines' home of arts and culture vows to continue as the country's premier institution for artistic excellence and cultural celebration
This year marks the Cultural Center of the Philippines' (CCP) temporary closure to give way to its transformation as a state-of-the-art centre for arts and culture. The building, which has stood strong for 50 years, is undergoing a three-year redevelopment plan in order to achieve its goal of continuously promoting and preserving the country's artistic treasures.
The renovation will not affect CCP's iconic architecture but its fire, drainage, electrical, environmental protection and other building code structures are promised to be improved; on top of the added facilities.
In case you missed it: Binurda: CCP Christmas show and building façade lighting
At the CCP Institutional Press Conference held early in February, the purpose and status of the renovation were discussed by CCP President Margie-Moran Floirendo. "The building has gone through leaks, corrosions, flooding, and other issues from various typhoons and earthquakes over the years," she had said. "We are also looking at technological and aesthetic upgrades responsive to CCP’s future programmes and activities, particularly the comfort, safety and overall experience of performers, audiences, employees and other stakeholders."
Above CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: CCP President Margie Moran-Floirendo with various equipment for the Main Theater
Above CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: The CCP Little Theater under renovation
CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: CCP President Margie Moran-Floirendo with various equipment for the Main Theater
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The 900 million initial budget was allocated for the rehabilitation of the Main Building, which will be coming from the proposed budget for an Artist Center. The Pasay City Government will be giving the green light to kick off the first phase of the project, concentrating on the centre's main venues—Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino and Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo—and the relocation of offices and theatres.
The latter will take up about 40 per cent of the budget, while the rest will be appropriated for the second phase: the repair of facilities such as the freight elevator, LED lights, rigging system, hydraulic lift, and acoustics.
Above CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: CCP President Margie Moran-Floirendo and other CCP officials tour the 4th floor area of the Main Building
Above CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: Tess Rances, CCP Administrative Services Department manager explains the physical state of the loading dock of the CCP Main Theater
CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: CCP President Margie Moran-Floirendo and other CCP officials tour the 4th floor area of the Main Building
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Throughout this endeavour, CCP ensures that it will continue its operations and will take this project as an opportunity to work with artistic communities and bring its programmes closer to the people in different parts of the country. Live performances and training will continue at the same time CCP's online presence will be strengthened.
"We hope that through our increased geographical presence and more outreach activities, the public will know that we are relentless in offering arts and cultural experiences for people from all walks of life. While we are temporarily closing our home, our commitment to fulfilling our duties will even be intensified," affirmed Moran-Floirendo.
Above CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: CCP Vice President and Artistic Director Dennis Marasigan
Above CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: CCP Chairman Jaime Laya speaks to guests prior to the tour of CCP
CCP Institutional Presscon 2023: CCP Vice President and Artistic Director Dennis Marasigan
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CCP's redevelopment supports the national priority to accelerate the reopening of travel and the economy and the creation of jobs as much as it is aligned with the CCP’s mission to strengthen the Philippine brand.
"We are rebuilding a centre for culture and arts that will push the country forward. We request everyone’s support and trust that the endeavour will set the stage for further creative and cultural development as well as international collaborations, showcasing the unique talent and spirit of the Filipino," concluded Moran-Floirendo.
Related: CCP 'Pasinaya' open house festival returns this 2023
Now that the decades-old home of the Filipinos for all things heritage, tradition, passion, and profession will be closing, it doesn't mean that the honour and its celebration should also be put to a stop. Here's what taking centre stage in CCP's activities this 2023!
Welcome a more accessible and diverse lineup of live performances, productions, exhibits, training and education programs highlighting the creative spirit of Filipinos:
'Metamorphosis'
For starters, catch the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra's 38th concert season! PPO's sixth and seventh series, titled Metamorphosis, will respectively take place on February 24 and March 17 at CCP's Metropolitan Theater where fans can take delight in classical music performances with international guest soloists and esteemed Filipino artists of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.
'Ang Pag-uusig'
If you're into much more gripping sensations, Tanghalang Pilipino's Ang Pag-uusig is recommended for you! The Filipino take on Arthur Miller's The Crucible, which is currently running until March 12 at the CCP Black Box Theater, is one you wouldn't dare miss.
More from Tatler: The devil hides among men: a review on Tanghalang Pilipino's 'Ang Pag-uusig'
Performatura Festival
Above Performatura Festival 2015 (Photo by Karl Angelo Vidal/Image from The Flame)
Performatura Festival 2015 (Photo by Karl Angelo Vidal/Image from The Flame)
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Performatura, the CCP's renowned three-day festival, is making a comeback from going digital during the pandemic! From March 31 to April 2, dive deep into the country's biggest literacy feast of written words, performance, and storytelling from our rich Philippine literature.
See also: Everything we know about the CCP Performance Literature Festival online
Slated at CCP's Tanghalang Ignacio Gomez, expect poetry readings, theatrical shows, dance dramas, musical presentations, and spoken word competitions.
'Diyosa'
Above Carlo Calma's Diyosa 2023 (Image from Ballet Philippines)
Carlo Calma's Diyosa 2023 (Image from Ballet Philippines)
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Apart from its debut at The Theatre at Solaire on April 14 to 16, Ballet Philippines will offer a week-long dance celebration featuring the electric dancers of Diyosa by Carlo Calma on March 28 to April 1! A dreamy world of fantasy of Filipino heritage and culture infused with fashion, art, architecture, and music; all happening at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.
Above The National Music Competitions for Young Artists (Image from Cultural Center of the Philippines)
The National Music Competitions for Young Artists (Image from Cultural Center of the Philippines)
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CCP will also conduct workshops and training programs for young musicians in different regions to upgrade their skills and performances and prepare them for professional careers with the National Music Competitions for Young Artists! Bring out the best in you and join the NAMYCA Children’s concert workshop at Ayala Museum in April.
These are just some of what's in store for this year! Additionally, CCP has outreach programmes offering free musical training and scholarships for public high school students such as the Kabataang Gitarista Program scheduled every Saturday until the end of the year in various venues.
Read more: Inside Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, CCP's newly-built Blackbox Theatre
It's going to be the best of times through CCP's programmes this 2023 as it maintains the Philippine trademark, commemorates the creativity of Filipinos, and simultaneously enriches our community's social awareness and contributes to the country's economic value.
"We urge the public to continue supporting and participating in our celebration of arts and culture to help deepen our identity and tell our story within and beyond our shores," Moran-Floirendo imparted.
Stay updated through CCP's website (culturalcenter.gov.ph) or follow the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts!
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Credits
Photography: Kiko Cabuena
Images: CCP Corporate Communications Division
Kristina's passion to write came from her love for books. If her nose isn't buried in one nor her fingers are tapping away on a keyboard working on a write-up, you'll find her having a feast at a new restaurant or savouring coffee in the nearest shop listening to rock music. Also interested in computer games and all things Japan, she spends her free time playing Dota 2, watching anime, as well as reading manga.
