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Life of Pi
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The Cultural Center of the Philippines takes nine thought-provoking British shows to Philippine theatres. Read on to know when and where to watch
A variety of world-class stage plays filmed live from one of the United Kingdom’s premier stages will be shown on big screens in the Philippines through the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ (CCP) National Theatre Live, a newly minted programme seeking to provide the best of London National Theatre in commercial cinemas.
First launched in June 2009, the National Theater Live has been broadcasting the best British theatre live from the London stage to cinemas worldwide and now on the Philippine shore. The CCP partnered with National Theatre Live and the Ayala Malls Cinema to launch the first season, which runs from September 26, 2023, to May 28, 2024, exclusively at Greenbelt cinemas.
In case you missed it: “TANAW” at the Theatre at Solaire: Six OPM Queens in One Concert
Below is a list of films to watch out for:
1. The Seagull
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Emilia Clarke’s portrayal of The Seagull is a modern adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s classic play. Directed by Jamie Lloyd, this production offers a fresh take on Chekhov’s timeless tale of love and longing.
The actress’ involvement in this adaptation brings her unique talent and perspective to classic theatre work, offering a new interpretation of Chekhov’s masterpiece while retaining its core themes of love, art, and the human condition.
2. The Crucible
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Arthur Miller’s timeless play The Crucible is a gripping story brought to global audiences through live broadcasts and recorded screenings. Set in 1692 during the Salem witch trials in colonial Massachusetts, its story follows a community torn apart by hysteria and fear as accusations of witchcraft spread.
The play explores themes of mass hysteria, justice, and the consequences of fanaticism.
Related: The devil hides among men: A review on Tanghalang Pilipino’s ‘Ang Pag-uusig’
3. Othello
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Othello, adapted for National Theatre Live (NT Live), is a theatrical production of William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. It follows the story of the titular character, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, and his ensign Iago, who manipulates him into believing that his wife Desdemona has been unfaithful to him.
The play tackles themes of jealousy, betrayal, racism, and manipulation.
4. Much Ado About Nothing
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Another of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies, Much Ado About Nothing is known for its witty wordplay, humorous misunderstandings, and romantic entanglements. The play features Beatrice and Benedick engaging in sharp banters before eventually falling in love.
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5. Life of Pi
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Life of Pi is based on Yann Martel’s bestselling novel. The story follows the journey of Pi Patel, a 16-year-old boy who survives a shipwreck in the Pacific Ocean and finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with several animals, including a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker.
6. King Lear
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King Lear is also one of Shakespeare’s most respected tragedies. It tells the story of an ageing king who decides to divide his kingdom among his three daughters. The decision eventually leads to tragic consequences. At its core, the play explores themes of power, betrayal, family, and madness.
7. Hamlet
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Regarded as one of Shakespeare’s most famous and enduring plays, Hamlet tells the story of the titular character who has yet to come to terms with the sudden death of his father and the hasty remarriage of his mother to his uncle, who has now become king.
Read more: Airbnb listing opens ‘Hamlet’ castle in Denmark to overnight guests
8. Fleabag
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Dark, funny, and emotionally raw, Fleabag is a play written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge. It delves into themes of grief, relationships, sexuality, and the complexities of modern life.
9. Frankenstein
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Frankenstein is a gothic tale that explores the themes of science, morality, and creation. It follows the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a sentient being through an unconventional experiment.
Witness the magic of the London National Theatre through CCP National Theatre Live. All screenings will be at 5.30pm, exclusively at Greenbelt cinemas. The regular ticket price is PHP250.00 while the special ticket price for students is PHP150.00. Tickets can be purchased at sureseats.com.
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Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
