TV Comic Tries Stage Play

Clefren “Balogitok” Dumaguit, popular comedian of local tv series, tries his mettle in the legitimate stage by playing Kolas, the younger brother of Inday, in Don Buenaventura Rodriguez’ zarzuela, “Inday, Paabuta Ako Sa Langit,” which will be presented on February 15 to 17 at the SM Cinema One at 10:30 a.m., 1:30, 4:00 & 7:30p.m.

“Balog” as he is popularly known, has been cast in various roles for 10 years in Barangay Guadalupe’s Lenten passion play presentation, “Buhing Kalbaryo,” but this is the first time he is cast as a comedian onstage. As Kolas, he provides the comic relief in the otherwise serious and dramatic vehicle, with a slightly altered caricature that is common in zarzuela.

Balog’s passion for theater is proven by his submission to be nailed on the cross as Hestas in last year’s institutionalized reenactment of the Lord’s crucifixion in Guadalupe. Together with two other friends, they bore the pain of actual nailing that they may be able to realistically project the sufferings in Calvary.

On the other hand, Rebecca Ortiz, out of more than a hundred who auditioned, was singled out to play the ill-fated heroine.

Ortiz, a fourth year nursing student from UC Banilad, was cast with two other young actresses for the title role but, after a month of rehearsal, was the only one who stayed behind to follow the role through to the finish line. “I never quit in whatever I pursue. As a child, my parents taught me the value of determination, perseverance and discipline. I am very privileged to be under Mr. Evangelio. Hi rigid ways to cull out the best from his actors pushes me further rather than discourages me. I don’t consider his temper a threat, but a challenge to do better. I think it is a question of attitude,” the tall charmer from Consolacion enthused.

Ably handling their roles are: Cloyd Ribo, Christian Turbanos, Emma Ruth Doroja, Irene Ronen, Noel Doble, Yenzo Evangelio and the Cebu City Task Force Choir with Mrs. Nadia Retuya, Musical Director as arranged by Antonio “Jakiri” Camins.

The revival is under the sponsorship of Michel Lhuillier, Club Ultima, 101.9 Charlie, Oscar Chua, SM Cinema One, Kalidades, Simon Enterprises, Dr. Lydia Alfonso and Pica Enterprises. For group or school reservations, please call 0918 443 5671.