From campus star to WWII hero
“Bintao: Ang Buhay at Kabayanihan ni Wenceslao Q. Vinzons” traces the life and times of the University of the Philippines student council president and Collegian editor who later rose in politics as Camarines Norte governor and congressman, before dying a martyr as a World War II guerrilla leader. Written by Efren Yambot and directed by Tony Mabesa and Alexander Cortez, the play runs on Nov. 23-24 at UP Theater in Diliman.
In celebration of its 100th founding anniversary, Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity stages “Bintao: Ang Buhay at Kabayanihan ni Wenceslao Q. Vinzons” by Efren Yambot, under the direction of Tony Mabesa and Alexander Cortez, at the University of the Philippines Theater, Diliman, QC, on Nov. 23, 7 p.m., and Nov. 24, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
“Bintao” traces the life and times of Vinzons, from his beginnings as a UP student—president of the Student Council and editor in chief of the Philippine Collegian, to his rise in the political realm as governor and congressman of Camarines Norte. It ends with his martyrdom as leader of the Vinzons Guerillas in the war years.
The play tells the story of a Filipino hero whose ideals resonate to this day.
“Bintao” serves as one of the highlights of the fraternity’s centennial celebration, since arts and culture have played a major part in its illustrious history.
In the cast are members of the Upsilon Sigma Phi and Sigma Delta Phi Sorority, guest performers from Dulaang UP, Tanghalang Ateneo, and Dulaang Filipino of Benilde, and other theater groups.
Josh Jimenez, a resident Upsilonian, plays the title role, with Liway Gabo and Chase Salazar as Liway, Bintao’s wife.
Upsilonians and Sigma Deltans in the cast include Vladimir Velasco, Joseph Olfindo, Ding Navasero, Dondi Ong, Fred Tengociang, EJ Ogremin, Kami de Asis, Yoly Pajaro, Fabie Ortiz and Sarina Sasaki.
In the artistic team are Ohm David (set), Eric Pineda and Mitoy Sta. Ana (costumes), Meliton Roxas Jr. (lights), Krina Cayabyab (musical direction and composition), Jethro Joaquin and Jack Alvero (sounds), Winter David and Steven Tansiongco (video), Boy Camara, Bot Jocano and Fritz Esase (movement), and Dino Dimar (photography).
“Bintao: Ang Buhay at Kabayanihan ni Wenceslao Q. Vinzons” is staged in cooperation with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and the University of the Philippines System.
Call Camille Guevara at 09178239531 or Kami Andre de Asis at 09951417613.