The West End Cultural Centre, in partnership with the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba is thrilled to present the first complete reading of the epic Philippine story ‘Florante at Laura’. This show will be presented twice at 3pm and 7pm on August 26th in Tagalog with English subtitles.
‘Florante at Laura’, an epic poem written by Francisco Balagtas, is considered a masterpiece of Philippine literature. Set in the 16th century in the fictional kingdom of Albania, the story revolves around the tragic love between the namesakes Florante, a noble warrior, and Lura, and beautiful princess. The poem explores themes of love, loyalty, honour, and the struggles of the Filipino people under Spanish colonization.
Florante, the son of the Duke of Crotona, is imprisoned by his rivals led by the treacherous Count Adolfo. Meanwhile, Laura, the daughter of King Linceo, faces her own trouble as she is forced into an arranged marriage. The two protagonists show their resilience, courage and their unwavering commitment to love and justice. Their love becomes a symbol of hope,serving as a contrast to the corruption and cruelty that surround them.
The cast is composed of local Filipino talent who have selflessly volunteered their time and effort to share their culture with the greater community of Manitoba and make this production a reality.
This new production being led by visionary director Ronald Mervin Sison and assistant director Tricia Magsino Barnabe is a collaboration between The Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, members of the Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers Inc., and Bahay Kubo's Kultivation Festival. Tickets for both readings of Florante at Laura are $15.00 and are available through Eventbrite at wecc.eventbrite.ca.
Cast: Ador Cabrera, Vicky Cabrera, Gemmarose Palermo-Claveria, Deus Ducepec, Ann Evangelista, Tricia Magsino Barnabe, Catherine Manuel-Ferrer, Cecille de Guzman, Nei Jusi, Cecilia Berces-Lozada, Noel Mojica, Denny Nangan, Alden Novallasca, Jeanette Kiamco-Perez, Sam Albano-Reboja, Maggie Chan-Urbano
Doors - 6:00pm
Show - 7:00pm
Tickets
$15.00 + Service Fees
All tickets subject to service fees