Ateneo Entablado adapts Friedrich Dürrenmatt’s ‘Romulus D’ Grayt’
MANILA, Philippines – Now in its 33rd season titled “Makita Kang Sakdal Laya,” Ateneo Entablado continues its season advocacy of good governance and engaged citizenship with its adaptation of a Western play. Originally written by Swiss playwright Friedrich Dürrenmatt and translated to Filipino by Dr. Jerry Respeto, Romulus D’ Grayt becomes a comedic retelling of Dürrenmatt’s unhistorical historical play.
Directed by Jethro Tenorio, Romulus D’ Grayt portrays the Roman Empire falling to its demise because of the leadership of an emperor who focuses on nothing else but his beloved chickens. Continuously questioning acts of heroism and one’s sense of nationalism, the character of Emperor Romulus offers to the audience an unusual kind of leader who, despite appearing irrational to his constituents, still carries the courage and conviction to deliver what is truly needed by society.
Not long before the infamous Ides of March, the subjects of the Emperor Romulus, in urgent succession, warn their sovereign of the threat that is the Teutons encroaching upon Rome. To the shock of the Romans, Romulus does not seem the least bit worried about this danger. He deliberately leaves his empire in the hands of fate and busies himself with the welfare of his chicken farm. On the eve of the occupation, the subjects plot to assassinate the emperor, but Romulus soon discovers the conspiracy and thwarts this plan. Abandoned by his subjects, Romulus is left alone to face Odoakro, the leader of the Teutons, in order to relinquish his empire. In their meeting, the two leaders soon discover that their goals are aligned — to give up the nests of violence and greed that are their nations.
The show runs from Feb. 3 to 5, and 9 to 12 at 7 p.m., and Feb. 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., at the Rizal Mini Theater, Faber Hall, Ateneo de Manila University.
For tickets and inquiries, visit the Ateneo Entablado Facebook page or call Riczel Venegas at 0915-5733175.
