LUST, REVENGE, and struggle for power are an explosive combination in Tanghalang Pilipino’s 28th season closer “Juego De Peligro,” staged at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Feb. 20 to March 8.
The play is a Filipino stage adaptation of French writer Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ novel “Les Liaisons Dangereuses” and its 1988 film adaptation, “Dangerous Liasons,” directed by Stephen Frears and starring Glenn Close and John Malkovich.
Written by UST Journalism alumnus Elmer Gatchalian, “Juego de Peligro” is set in 19th century Intramuros, in contrast with the original novel that is set in pre-revolution France.
Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte Sébastien de Valmont in the novel are transformed into Señora Margarita and Señor Vicente in the Philippine adaptation.
The play explores themes of corruption and power play between the sexes during the twilight of Spanish colonization and the coming of the Philippine revolution.
Señora Margarita (Shamaine Centenera Buencamino) IS a deceitful widowed peninsulare seeking revenge from those who wronged her by employing fellow aristocrat Señor Vicente to do her favors for personal gain.
Margarita tries to fool the naïve Cecilia, the indio Daniel, and the virginal Teresa but when her schemes are exposed, she is soon driven out of town.
Directed by Tanghalang Pilipino’s associate artistic director Tuxqs Ruquatio, the cast included Arnold Reyes, LJ Reyes, Adrienne Vergara, Lharby Policarpio, and Vin Abrenica.
Gatchalian previous theatrical works include “Ang Tiririt ng Ibong Adarna” and the Palanca-award winning “Ambon ng Kristal.” Ethan James M. Siat
