Cover Handyong and Oryol (Photo: Philippine Ballet Theater)
Handyong and Oryol (Photo: Philippine Ballet Theater)
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A dazzling adaptation of the Bicolano epic, ‘Ibalon’ is set to leave audiences spellbound
Following the love story of Handyong (The Warrior) and Oryol (The Cursed Creature), Ibalon is a powerful display of love against the backdrop of Philippine mythology. With colourful dances choreographed by Ronilo Jaynario and captivating music by Paulo Zarate, it draws inspiration from the three major islands of the Philippines—Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Jaynario and Zarate are set to leave a lasting imprint in Philippine dance history. Determined to tell the untold stories of our heritage, the two finely mesh together the new and old to bring our ancestral customs to life with music and dance.
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Above Handyong and his followers (Photo: Philippine Ballet Theater)
Handyong and his followers (Photo: Philippine Ballet Theater)
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Zarate describes his original music as an exaggeration of what traditional Filipino music would’ve sounded like back then. Filipino instruments were more percussive and rhythmic, which he elegantly weaved into his showpiece—with bold and moving melodies of his own.
Above Ibalon poster (Photo: Philippine Ballet Theater)
Ibalon poster (Photo: Philippine Ballet Theater)
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The traditional Bicolano tale describes Oryol as a beautiful maiden that shapeshifts into a serpent who is as deceitful as she is beautiful. Handyong and his followers constantly fight the beasts of the land but find themselves evenly matched by Oryol. Impressed by Handyong’s bravery and battle prowess, she helps him hunt down the remaining monsters until peace is achieved. Philippine Ballet Theater’s rising stars, Matthew Davo and Jessa Tangalin will bring the epic characters to life, telling a story of our culture and history through love.
Ibalon runs from July 28, 2023, to July 29, 2023, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. For tickets, visit ticketworld.com.ph.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
Work
A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
