Albay’s epic sets record

MANILA, Philippines - The new production of Daragang Magayon, Albay’s mythical epic, to be shown in ballet form at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CPP) Main Theater today, is setting record in Philippine art history. 

Daragang Magayon: An Istorya ni Mayon, now goes on record as the first full-length ballet of a love story of Mayon volcano and the people of Albay. 

It is also the first of its kind to be set to rondalla, specially composed and arranged by conductor and composer Ramon Pagayon Santos, known for his contributions to the development of ethnic music in the country.

As an epic, it goes down on record, too, as the first collaboration of three respected contemporary artists. Its poetry was penned by National Artist Virgilio Almario, its music by Santos, and the new scenes and drama came from multi-awarded writer and researcher Abdon Balde Jr., who is now Albay’s Poet Laureate.  

The production is also the first ballet interpretation backed up by multi-media in the country.

It is choreographed by Gerald Mercado and wife Katrina Santos-Mercado with the eDance Theater. Filmography is by Chuck Escasa, while its animation is by Niko Salazar.

The set and costumes were designed by Leo Abaya and Carlo Pagunaling, respectively.

The epic is produced by the Albay provincial government. Albay Gov. Joey Salceda said the presentation forms part of their revitalized tourism development program that would offer guests an opportunity to take a fresher look into the province’s mesmerizing mythical past, its magic and mystery.