MORE than three decades since its premiere, the Filipino musical Rama, Harim based on the Indian epic, returned to the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ (CCP) Main Theater last November 30 and ran until December 9.
With its libretto written by UST alumnus and National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera, the pop ballet musical featured the music of Ryan Cayabyab and the choreography of Alice Reyes.
The costumes and production set were designed by the late National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal.
Leading the roster of performers were pop singers Karylle and Christian Bautista as King Rama and Princess Sita, respectively.
OJ Mariano and Kalila Aguilos served as understudies. Other performers were Robert Seña and Christian Rey Marbella as the demon Ravana, Noel Rayos, Lani Ligot, Amparo Sietereales, and Brezhnev Larlar.
The Manila Symphony Orchestra provided the accompaniment.Ballet Philippines’ principal dancers Jean Marc Cordero and Richardson Yadao acted as the dancing counterparts of Rama while Carissa Adea and Katherine Trofeo were Sita.
The musical, based on the Indian epic Ramayana, depicts the romance between Rama and Sita, whose love is tested by numerous adventures and temptations.
Among the musical\s celebrated songs featured are “Magbalik Ka Na, Mahal,” “Awit ng Pagsinta,” and the playful “Type Kita, Rama.” Ornate yet simple.
The production was both minimalist and elaborate. Jewel-gilded costumes and colorful props contrasted harmoniously with a plain white stage, decked out with several slopes and blocks. Serving as backdrop was a metallic retro-inspired pattern that harmoniously reflected the musical’s vibrant lighting.
Subtitles, translated in English by the late National Artist for Theater and Literature Rolando Tinio, were flashed on the stage proscenium.
The music and choreography were infused with both Indian and Filipino influences.
The music was set in ethnic-inspired Asian instrumentals, while the dances combined both rapid and subtle movements.
Rama, Hari was first staged in 1980, with Kuh Ledesma as Sita, Basil Valdez as Rama, and Leo Valdez as the villain Ravana.
