Theater adapts and evolves through time.
Theater also responds to the time.
Today is an unimaginable digitized era. And a stage that portrays the present preserves our nation’s collective memory.
After its successful run of Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan production, Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (DUP) addresses the recurring challenges head-on as it launches its 49th Theatre Season. By reinterpreting classic national literature, DUP creates a dynamic space where past struggles directly inform our present realities.
Preserving Our Nation’s Culture Memory
DUP centers its new season on a vital question: “Paano Umalala nang may Pag-alaga?” (How do we remember with care?).
Honoring the 130th death anniversary of Dr. José Rizal, the company brings together two premier directors to stage back-to-back adaptations of Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo. Furthermore, this season continues the legacy of founding Artistic Director and National Artist Tony Mabesa by transforming the stage into a living archive. As a result, actors and audiences can physically engage with cultural memory instead of leaving history confined to textbooks.
Why Rizal’s World Still Mirrors Ours
Moreover, Rizal’s novels remain deeply relevant because the issues he exposed still plague modern Filipino society.
For instance, characters like Doña Victorina and corrupt officials mirror today’s political dynasties and systemic corruption. Consequently, these stories remind us that while the faces of oppressors have changed, the fight against injustice continues. Additionally, the contrasting paths of Crisostomo Ibarra and Simoun offer timeless lessons in activism.
While Ibarra’s focus on education highlights the need to combat misinformation, Simoun’s radical shift serves as a stark warning against shutting down peaceful reform.
Two Of The Best: Fiestas y Muertos, Nitrogliserina
Looking ahead, the lineup promises two compelling productions at UP Diliman’s IBG-KAL Theatre. First, the season opens from October to November 2026 with José Estrella’s Fiestas y Muertos, an adaptation of Noli Me Tángere based on Virgilio Almario’s translation. This staging cleverly contrasts lively public celebrations with underlying societal decay. Next, from February to March 2027, Dexter M. Santos directs Nitrogliserina, a new play by Guelan Varela-Luarca inspired by El Filibusterismo.
Ultimately, this final production explores alternate revolutionary outcomes and the true cost of rebuilding a nation.
By breathing new life into these classic works, DUP offers far more than traditional theater performances.
Instead, the upcoming season invites audiences to actively reflect, question, and engage with our shared history. Be sure to check Dulaang UP’s official social media pages for ticketing announcements and performance schedules.
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