Dulaang UP Baguio shows in Sagada, Bontoc, Besao

SAGADA, Mountain Province --  “Indeed, theatre can be a vehicle to discuss culture,” said former Sagada Mayor Thomas Killip after watching Dulaang UP Baguio's (DUPB) free staging of “Sayaw ng Panahon” in this tourist town Jan. 31.

“Sayaw ng Panahon” is DUPB's original adaptation of Danilo Antalan's award-winning short story in Iluko “Dagiti Sala ti Panawen” which won first place in the Palanca Memorial Awards in 2012.

About 1,000 people watched the free performances in Sagada, in Bontoc on Feb. 1, and in Besao on Feb. 3.

Audiences from different ages laughed to witty punch lines and were amazed by the dance moves, while some held back tears on the more serious part of the play.

The show elicited varied views from the audience on culture, modern and traditional dances, the roles of youth and their tribal elders.

Some commented that they were inspired by the play in recognizing the importance of their indigenous culture. 

Teachers from St. James High School in Besao said that they can use the play as a tool for discussion in debate or in history classes.

Respecting the old way of life even in modern times became the center of discussion in a group facilitated by a teacher after the show. One student commented that modern and old tradition should not be mixed.

DUPB's “Sayaw ng Panahon” Mountain Province tour was made possible by the assistance of Gov. Leonard Mayaen, the local governments and schools in Sagada, Bontoc, and Besao, Mountain Province, as well as UP Baguio Chancellor Dr. Raymundo Rovillos.

DUPB is set to perform “SayawngPanahon” on Feb. 12, 13, and 14, 6 p.m. at the Bulwagang Juan Luna (UP Baguio Auditorium).

Tickets are at P100 for patrons and P50 for students.