adidas Originals = PHARRELL WILLIAMS Hu

Press release

Philippines – This Autumn, Pharrell Williams and adidas debut Hu, a collection of apparel and shoes that explores humanity and celebrates cultural diversity around the world. Hu represents Pharrell’s vision of connecting people through love, passion, energy, and color.

‘Hu is short for human – human being, human race, humankind,’ said Pharrell. ‘But Hu, itself is also a reference to color. As human beings, we all have a color. We all look different, we all speak different languages, but we’re all connected.’

Building on the limited-edition NMD that launched in July, Pharrell and adidas return with a diverse range of full-color footwear. Celebrating a spirit of equality, acceptance, co-existence and understanding, the collection features flags, stripes, and translations of the phrase “Human Race” in English, French, and Japanese. Pharrell sums up the collection’s message simply: ‘I play for the human race.’

With the launch of Hu, Pharrell looks to shine a spotlight on communities around the world, sharing stories and traditions of humanity. In this first collection Native Americans from North Dakota invited Pharrell into their community to share their stories of compassion and culture, carrying on traditions of language, prayer, celebration and knowledge from one generation to the next.

‘I am so thankful to the people of MHA Nation who shared their journey and experiences with me. I want to use my platform for people to tell their stories and help empower people no matter where they’re from. By understanding humanity’s past, we will build a bridge to its future.’ Pharrell Williams

Footwear from the Hu collection follows the precedent set by the yellow NMD trainer debuted in July 2016, but now offers 5 new colorways: scarlet, black, sharp blue, green, and tangerine. The shoes feature adidas Primeknit™ uppers, energy-returning white adidas Boost™ midsoles, and a breakthrough lacing system in which laces are woven through the stabilizer of the shoe’s cage, offering both support and freedom. The shoe also boasts an internal toe cap for a unique shape and a new modernized curved collar. Each color is printed with its own split slogan, such as “Hu Race,” “Human Species,” or “Hue Man.” Instantly eye-catching with their bold visual language, these pieces form the foundation of the adidas Originals = PHARRELL WILLIAMS wardrobe for the coming season.

adidas Originals = PHARRELL WILLIAMS Hu launches globally on September 29, 2016.

Points of sale of footwear in the Philippines are Sole Academy, Commonwealth, adidas Glorietta, and adidas Uptown. Each pair retails at P9,995.

Co-Work Space: The New Working Lifestyle in this Digital Millennium

The workplace varies now because of today’s technological mobility and communication. I remember a TV plug years ago that shows this example. Two guys hanging out on a beach when they suddenly had a call from their mobile phone and suddenly they shifted to work mode.  It was revealed that they were consulted and answered an inquiry and they also have their laptops with them. After the inquiry, they are back to relaxation.

Left to Right: Penbrothers Operations Manager Eshna Esu, Business Development Manager for Dell Phils. Michelle Juliano, IT Trainer John Irwin Magno, Microsoft Phils. Innovative Enterprises Lead Tovia Va'aelua and Commercial Marketing Lead Frank Rich

You may not find it a suitable workplace but it is not far from happening. The business office are now getting smaller than you imagine not just in office space but also There are co-working spaces where you can see that different kind of businesses are operating under one roof. Don’t be surprise if one table occupies different services offered.

Co-working Spaces enables an entrepreneur operates in a minimal working space like a desk or shared tables but with wide contacts around the same room. If an entrepreneur is offered a project, the amount of resources may be just across the room or within a mobile phone call away. One example of a co-working space is Pen Brothers in Makati.

Microsoft recently introduced Office 365 and it shows how practical it is and ideal to co-working spaces like Pen Brothers. The idea of co-working spaces is suitable with the Office 365 that is why together with Dell Philippines, partnerships like these are very convenient.

What I appreciate about co-working spaces is the mobility of working even if you are alone in the business. All you just need is a space to work on, a computer, mobile connection and you are set but it also helps deliver the services rendered to the client.

I was oriented and briefed about Pen Brothers and how Office 365 can do wonders for the co-working space environment in this millennium. For more updates, follow this blog and like the L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

adidas releases Crazylight 2016 James Harden Arizona State University

Press release

The latest James Harden Crazylight 2016 drops and pays tribute to James’ alma mater: Arizona State University. 

James' path to the NBA took shape at ASU, where he created a style all his own as a lights out three-point shooter with Eurostep drives to the rim. 

“Arizona State helped mold me into the man I am today and this is my chance to show love, respect and how much they mean to me,” James explained. “I’ve been up there practicing this summer and it’s one big family. You find certain things in life, and you get attached to them. It’s no different with ASU.” 

The ASU edition Kicks feature a light gray jacquard upper, maroon detailing and Harden’s No. 13 badge accented in gold on the tongue. Crazylight 2016 incorporates full-length BOOST cushioning, a TPU forefoot roll cage and reengineered fast traction to amplify control at all angles of play.

The Crazylight 2016 ASU Edition is already being sold in Titan stores for P7,995.

ADIDAS AND DAMIAN LILLARD STRIKE WITH SHARK BLACK EDITION

Press release

An offensive force at the top of the NBA food chain, Damian Lillard continues to grind during off-season workouts as he prepares for his fifth year in the league. Representing Dame’s primal on-court instinct and ability to attack defenses at will, adidas strikes with the D Lillard 2 Shark Black edition.

His latest D Lillard 2 features tonal black treatment, hits of red, Oak Print detailing on the lack lock, heel counter, outsole and BOUNCE midsole with unique chain stitch embroidery along the silhouette’s upper.

Shark Blackis already available in all leading adidas stores and retail partners for P5,995.

Follow the conversation @adidashoops on Twitter and Instagram with #DLillard2.

THE FALL OF USHER SETS SIX PERFORMANCES ON OCT. 7 - 8

Press release

The Theater House of Black, whose members recently staged the Filipino adaptation of Federico Garcia Lorca's "The House of Bernarda Alba, " seems to have a penchant for houses that are shrouded in mystery.

Next off from the group is "#14 Leandro Road," a Filipino theatrical adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's most celebrated short story, "The Fall of the House of Usher," first published in 1839.

Devised by Jay Crisostomo IV and C.K. Bautista, "#14 Leandro Road," which is set on the dark chilly outskirts of Baguio City, is scheduled for six performances at Power Mac Center Spotlight in Circuit Makati on October 7 and 8, 2016.

"As a group, we wanted to stage stories that talk about families and stories that have been forgotten or are deemed underrated by the world," said Harry David, producer-production manager. "At the same time adapt them in Filipino and apply a Philippine twist to the stories so they would be more relevant and relatable to our audience."

"Poe's short story is about a family whose members long to come out from their gilded cage. They struggle to find happiness in dreams and achieve them but shown in a very macabre and creepy way. With that, not a lot of theater houses venture into the horror, suspense, and thriller genre. So, again as a group, we wanted to produce more plays that are categorized in this canon," he added.

"#14 Leandro Road" is a horror story, which blurs the line between the real world and the supernatural. It follows Ed/Edna Ramos, a real estate agent, who is invited by Rudy/Pilar Laperal, a grade school friend she hasn't seen for almost 20 years, to come and visit the latter's house. As soon as Ed/Edna arrives, he/she finds out that Rudy/Pilar lives with two other people: his/her ill brother/sister and the family doctor, Dra. Lita Dumas. As the days go by, the house guest finds out that both siblings are suffering from a mental illness. At the same time, both are keeping a secret that has been buried all these years.

Directed by Jay Crisostomo IV, "#14 Leandro Road" stars Harry David/Gold Villar (Ed/Edna), Migui Moreno/Mosang (Rudy/Pilar), GryGimena/SkyzxLabastilla (Anton/Anna), Patricia Ismael (Dra. Lita Dumas), Peewee O'Hara (Donya Victorina), and May Bayot (Consuelo).

"The audience can expect to be entertained through spooky thrills; a few scares here and there, and leave the theatre asking questions about the points that were brought up in the play," David said.

For tickets (P350-P600) and show buying opportunities, call +63917 656 1109, +63917 638 1109 or visit TicketWorld.com.ph.

Microsoft Philippines Introduces the Office 365 E5

Almost all computer users if not all are using the Microsoft Office and who doesn’t?  The Office you enjoy can be integrated with the Cloud but you can still be assured for the security measures regarding connecting online.

Yvette Watson - Technology Solutions Professional of Microsoft Philippines

The Office 365 E5 offers analytics which means it gives you stats how much you spend online reading your e-mails. If you are worried about security breach and hacking, Office 365 also offers protection for your important data you saved in the cloud.

What impresses me with 365 is the integration of your online data with your mobile devices. Despite the digital devices, we still can’t stop using the LAN line phones because it is still useful in the office. But what happens if you are waiting for a LAN line call and you are still out and offline?

Yvette Watson of Microsoft demonstrates that you can still accommodate your calls via Skype for Business. When your office LAN phone receives a call, it is forwarded to your mobile phone with no extra charges. You can also call via mobile phones with Skype for Business.

The Office 365 E5 is available in three packages: Personal, Consumer and Enterprise packages. For more updates about Microsoft, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

KANYE WEST and adidas Originals drop the YEEZY BOOST 350 V2

Press release

Manila, Philippines – In 2015, the YEEZY BOOST 350 changed the game. This September, Kanye West and adidas Originals introduce a bold evolution of this style. The world’s most influential and sought-after shoe debuts with a flash of color, as first seen at the epic YEEZY SEASON 3 presentation at Madison Square Garden during New York fashion week in February 2016.

Redesigned yet true to its roots, the YEEZY BOOST 350 V2 is crafted with beautiful, premium materials that infuse adidas’ technology with Kanye West’s unmistakable aesthetic. The 350 V2 makes an audacious play for color with an upper composed of Primeknit in three impactful hues of yarn. A streak of solar red bears the mark ‘SPLY-350’. A semi-translucent rubber outsole and TPU sidewalls create a striking effect while providing superior traction. 

The YEEZY BOOST 350 V2 midsole utilizes adidas’ innovative BOOST™ technology to create a durable, shock-resistant, responsive sole. At the same time, the breakthrough Primeknit material leverages adidas’ most advanced digital knitting techniques to fit like a second skin. Featuring the distinct center stitching on its upper as well as the signature ribbed outsoles, the YEEZY BOOST 350 V2 pays homage to its predecessor. 

The YEEZY BOOST 350 V2 will hit stores globally on September 24^th, 2016 and retails for P11,495.

RIVER SAFARI’S GIANT PANDAS KAI KAI AND JIA JIA CELEBRATE BIRTHDAYS WITH HONEY-FLAVOURED ICE CAKES

Press release

SINGAPORE – Keepers at River Safari recently threw a birthday bash for giant pandas—Kai Kai and Jia Jia—with honey-flavoured ice cakes decorated with apple and carrot slices, some of their favourite treats.

 

ABOVE: Kai Kai and Jia Jia enjoying their honey-flavoured ice cakes. In a recent update to their Red List of Threatened Species, giant pandas were downgraded to ‘Vulnerable’ from ‘Endangered’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Photo credits: Wildlife Reserves Singapore

Male Kai Kai celebrates his ninth birthday today, and female Jia Jia turned eight on 3 September 2016. Their ice cakes weighed a collective 7kg, and took keepers four days to make. 

Both giant pandas arrived in River Safari in 2012 on a 10-year loan from China. Kai Kai and Jia Jia entered their second mating season in April earlier this year, but both natural mating and artificial insemination had been unsuccessful. From weeks of displaying pseudo-pregnancy behaviour, female panda Jia Jia is gradually returning to a quiet life of normalcy.

 

ABOVE LEFT: Nor Faizah Bt Abdul Aziz, 23, Junior Keeper, and Halim Ali, 49, Assistant Curator, putting the final touches on Kai Kai’s cake.

ABOVE RIGHT: Ivan Ang, 26, Junior Keeper, gently placing sliced carrots on Jia Jia’s cake. Giant pandas consume up to 20kg of bamboo daily, and Kai Kai and Jia Jia also enjoy fruits, vegetables and high fibre biscuits. Photo credit: Wildlife Reserves Singapore

Keepers and vet remain optimistic for a future Singapore panda cub as Jia Jia is still very young (teenager in human years), and will continue to employ conservation breeding techniques proven to be successful before in other zoos. 

MOLIERE PMS: A HILARIOUS MIX OF HYPOCRISY AND HONESTY

Press release

The Egg Theater Co together with the PARC Foundation and Pineapple Lab presents Moliere PMS, a fusion of three Moliere play adaptations: Praning (The Imaginary Invalid), Maniacal (The Learned Ladies), and Schism (The Misanthrope) on October 1 & 2 at PARC Foundation, 494 Lt. Artiaga St., San Juan City and at Pineapple Lab, 6071 Palma Street, Rockwell on October 7-9 and October 14-16.

Transporting Moliere’s French Society to an imagined theater world that serves as a microcosm of Philippine society, the fusion of the three plays is a satirical comedy that pokes a searing look at the foibles and travails of theater artists divided and polarized by the ills of hypocrisy and pretentiousness.

Adapted and directed by Palanca award-winning playwright, George de Jesus III, the three plays have all been separately staged before: Praning in 2012 as a thesis production of Technical Theater and Production Design Program of the School for Design and Arts of the DLSU College of Saint Benilde, Maniacal and Schism by the Egg Theater Co as part of the Fringe Manila Festival in 2015 and 2016 respectively.

Moliere PMS centers on Alex, a playwright whose anger at the pretentiousness of the people around him, compels him to consider quitting theater. Helen, an actress and Alex’s best friend, tries to dissuade him by making him remember why he fell in love with theater in the first place. As they argue and discuss while waiting for a show (an adaptation of Moliere’s The Misanthrope directed by upcoming director, Don) they are watching a second time to begin, Alex’s thoughts manifest on stage as a reenactment of his own adaptations of Moliere’s The Learned Ladies (Maniacal) and The Imaginary Invalid (Praning).

Don entreats Alex to give notes about his adaptation. Refusing to be polite, Alex tells his honest opinion. As a reaction to Alex mercilessly lambasting Don’s artistry, Don makes a vilifying post about Alex on Facebook. Hilarity ensues as the manifestation of Alex’s exasperation on stage gets tangled as the actors, characters, and plots mix and merge. The jumble results in a hysterically intricate foray into the mind of someone peeling away the mask of hypocrisy and coming to terms with what one values and loves. Thus, Moliere PMS desires to give emphasis to an aspect of Moliere’s work that is greatly admired: “his intellectual penetration in distinguishing the parts of a man from the whole man. Montaigne, the 16th-century essayist who deeply influenced Molière, divided qualities that are acquired, such as learning or politeness or skills, from those that are natural, such as humanity or animality, what might be called “human nature” without other attributes. Molière delighted in opposing his characters in this way; often in his plays a social veneer peels off, revealing a real man.” (Will G. Moore, Encyclopedia Britannica)

Moliere PMS is the closing production of the Egg Theater Co for its 2016 season and features the following new and veteran theater actors:  Tuxqs Rutaquio and Renante Bustamante alternate in the role of Alex. Angeli Bayani and Mayen Estanero take turns in playing the roles of Helen, Belinda and Philippa. Via Antonio and Meann Espinosa alternate as Casey, Mandy and Direk Ugo. Paolo O’Hara and Joel Saracho play Chris. Mara Paulina Marasigan and Martha Comia alternate as Rita and Angelique with Mara also alternating with Ross Pesigan as Aries and Toni. Migs Almendras will play Jim and Tom Toledo. Sky Abundo will play Clint and Andre. Sari Estrada plays Drea and Elise. And RS Francisco plays Tristan. Lights design by Joseph Mattheu, stage and production management by John Mark Yap and Arma Bonilla.

For ticket inquiries and details please send a message to www.facebook/theeggtheaterco or call 0917-8040762 or 0917-8440520.

Moymoy Lulumboy series draws out family’s interest in reading

After two books, once again Moymoy Lulumboy launches its third book at the recent Manila International Book Fair. I became an instant fan since I was invited for the first book launch and now I am excited with the third book.

Author Segundo Matias, Jr.; or Kuya Jun to some; said that he does not know if there will be a sequel but if ever, someone can continue telling Moymoy’s world in another medium. Perhaps animation or theatrical productions. Live action? Probably if the production is good in SFX like in Hollywood.

Wait, why is he talking like this? Is this the end of the story arc? Is Moymoy only a trilogy? Then I recalled Jun Matias said during the first book launch. If the book is received well by the readers, then I will write a sequel.

Jun Matias created Moymoy from a dream and draw his own childhood experience for the title character. During this launch, I got to meet a fellow fan both father and daughter who also are instant fans. The father is a teacher. He told me that he saw the book in a book store and was caught by the concept. Since then, they also attend the launch yearly.

Author Jun Matias(L) and illustrator Jomike Tejido(R)

Never since Harry Potter book series had that created mutual reading interest among the family. The father told me that the book was so unique and has class standards that he also recommends it to his students. He even saw one of his students in line to get a book copy signed.

Moymoy Lulumboy Ang Batang Aswang revives the Filipino folklore and made it more contemporary. Whether Moymoy comes to life in other mediums or continues in print, Moymoy Lulumboy truly made a mark in Pinoy fiction that will continue to draw more stories in the future. Jomike Tejido illustrates the books series.

For more book launches, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Tanghalang Pilipino's Pangarap Sa Isang Gabi Nag Gitnang Tag-Araw

This year, the Bard; William Shakespeare, is celebrating his 400^th death anniversary and what else could be the better way to do than produce one of his plays in his honour. Tanghalang Filipino, CCP’s resident theatre group is presenting the Pangarap Sa Isang Gabi Ng Gitnang Tag-Araw; Tagalog version of one of a Shakespeare comedy Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Teaser: Confrontation of Titania and Oberon(played by Liesl Batucan and Audie Gemora)

Tanghalang Pilipino is known for mashing up classic story material with a twist. I have seen two Shakespeare works of TP like Macbeth where they themed it like the Japanese Kabuki theatre and The Merchant of Venice entitled Der Kaufmann, which is set during the time of the Holocaust. Der Kaufmann earned Gawad Buhay awards.

TP is also privilege to have national artist for theatre and literature the late Rolando Tinio to use his translation for this production and Mr. Carlos Siguion-Reyna to direct this Shakespeare comedy. Mr. Siguion-Reyna is using the comedy as comparison of chaos and order. The Theseus’ court symbolizes order and the forest symbolizes chaos. When I say chaos, it does not mean disorderly because there should be balance between order and chaos.

What make Shakespeare’s work applicable in today’s modern times are the universal themes of the stories that transcends time periods. You can see that most situations in Shakespeare also used in telenovelas as well as popular culture.  I even remember a scene from Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country, where the Klingon Chancellor Gorkon said that “You will not experience Shakespeare until you read him in original Klingon and General Chang quoted “taH pag taHbe” (“To be or not to be) from Hamlet Act 3 Scene 1. This is paralleled from history where the Nazi propaganda claimed that Shakespeare is their own.

Shakespeare also transcends boundaries.  The women characters are also empowered. Jackie Lou Blanco plays the part of Hypolyta, the queen of the Amazons; says that her character even though was abused was able to soften the heart of Theseus. Ms. Blanco last performed for TP in Mga Ama, Mga Anak. Playing the part of Oberon the king of fairies, Audie Gemora admits this is first non-singing Tagalog play and his first Shakespeare.

The play will be held at CCP Tanghalang Huseng Batute. It may be small and cramped but it is my favourite among CCP Tanghalans. It gives an intimate and immersive theatre experience because the cast is up close and you might never know that sometimes, the actor/s might be sitting right beside you before entering the scene.

Not since Zsazsa Zaturnah the musical, it is also bilingual. Some lines will be English and some in Tagalog. Pangarap sa Isang Gabi Ng Gitnang Tag-Araw starts its run on September 30, 2016. For more theatrical updates, follow this blog and like 

Alviera Celebrates Halloween with Alviera Hero Camp

As far as I remember, I always go to Ayala night spots in Makati and the Ayala property in Alabang for Halloween. It is fun wearing costumes you like because you can be free in choosing your own costumed identity during this day.

For Alviera, this is the time of the year to celebrate Halloween in style because they are having their first Hero Camp in Alviera property in Porac, Pampanga. Just like Nuvali in Laguna, Alviera Pampanga is ideal for nature tripping outdoor activities.

It will be a family event for two days on a weekend (October 15 to 16) where you can dress up your favourite superhero. There will be fun activities like making your own masks and more.

Speaking of outdoor activities, it is also the venue for fun activities in Sandbox Adventure Park. Here, you can experience being super with the archery range, roller coaster zipline, giant swing, etc.

Since this is also a camp, it will also provide a crash course in Hero 101. There will be martial arts/self-defense workshops, survival training and more. At night, there will be a Parade of Heroes and some trick or treating. Then later, you will enjoy superhero flicks in the outdoor movie screenings under the night skies. Speaking of the night skies, you can also enjoy stargazing as astronomers from The Mind Museum will orient you and make you appreciate celestial bodies.

You may choose to be a DAY ADVENTURER or a WEEKEND CAMPER. If you only wanted to take part but not going overnight, the package fee costs P2,100. But if you are going to camp out, the package cost P2,950.

Here are some suggestions for the duration of the Hero Camp:

• Bring only what you can use for the duration of the camp. Pack light.
• Maximize your time for the activities.
• Although the activities are safe, it is still best to know safety procedures.
• Cooking your own food within camping grounds is not allowed for safety reasons. But there will be concessions in the vicinity.
• Make sure you have lots of water or drinking fluids.  Avoid dehydration.
• In case of emergency, there is an in-house doctor or nurse and an ambulance on stand-by.
• Even though you pay for the camp, we are also heroes of the environment. Make sure you clean up the area or throw your trash to designated areas. Be a hero for Mother Earth.
• Even though there are martials around to make sure the camp is safe, make sure you attend to your kids at all times be aware of their whereabouts.

For more details, go to travelfactor.org/alvieraherocamp . For more family oriented events, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Tanghalang Pilipino presents PangarapsaIsang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw

Press release

Tanghalang Pilipino ushers in its second production for the 30^th season Transformance with the enchanting PangarapsaIsang Gabi ngGitnang Tag-Araw.

PangarapsaIsang Gabi ng Gitnang Tag-Araw, an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s classic, A Midsummer Night’s Dream from Rolando Tinio’s Filipino translation, follows one of Shakespeare’s most popular works. The comedy centers on the events surrounding the marriage of Duke Theseus of Athens to the Amazon queen Hippolyta, and follows the stories of a band of fairies, a troupe of players and an Athenian love triangle between Hermia, her lover Lysander and suitor Demetrius. 

In this unique adaptation by Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, the audience will experience the powerful juxtaposition of two worlds—Athens, the home of the powers-that-be, rigid and structured, vis-à-vis the home of enchanting creatures, the forest,a place where unbridled passions run free.

“Watch Pangarap and experience a story of virtual love, rejection, and emotional transformation,”invites Nanding Josef, Artistic Director of Tanghalang Pilipino.

The cast includes Philippine theater’s most brilliant stars like Audie Gemora (Oberon), Liesl Batucan (Titanya), Jackie Lou Blanco (Hipolita), Skyzx Labastilla (Hipolita), Teroy Guzman (Teseo), Rafa Siguion-Reyna (Tisbe, Flute, and Ada), and the Tanghalang Pilipino Actor’s Company. 

Notable members of the artistic staff include Rody Vera (Dramaturg), Toym Imao (Set Designer), John Batalla (Lights Designer), TJ Ramos (Sound Designer), and James Reyes (Costume Designer).

Tanghalang Pilipino is the resident theater company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Established in 1987, it has successfully produced more than 200 shows locally and internationally.

PangarapsaIsang Gabi ngGitnang Tag-Araw runs at the Cultural Center of the Philippines on these dates and times:

September 30, 2016 (Friday) – 8PM

October 1, 2016 (Saturday) – 3PM & 8PM

October 2, 2016 (Sunday) – 3PM

October 7, 2016 (Friday) – 8PM

October 8, 2016 (Saturday) – 3PM & 8PM

October 9, 2016 (Sunday) – 3PM

October 14, 2016 (Friday) – 8PM

October 15, 2016 (Saturday) – 3PM & 8PM

October 16, 2016 (Sunday) – 3PM

For more information, contact Tanghalang Pilipino Foundation, Inc. at (02) 832-1125 loc. 1620/1621| Direct line: (02) 822 6920 |Lorelei Celestino: (02) 915 607 2275 

“ LAGABLAB – ARTIST PLAYGROUND’S LATEST PRODUCTION ALL SET TO OPEN ON SEPT. 23

Press release

Artist Playground’s Season Two proudly presents LAGABLAB written by Dan Hollanda, a play inspired by a short story penned by British writer W. Somerset Maugham entitled “The Unconquered.”

LAGABLAB is set to open on Sept. 23 at The Little Room Upstairs, 1701 Landsdale Tower, Mother Ignacia Ave. corner Timog, QC and will run until October 30 – Fridays at 7 pm; Saturdays and Sundays at 3 pm and 7 pm.

Directed by Paul Jake Paule, the play is set in Bulacan during the Japanese occupation. The story revolves around the desolation of a Filipino family who was forced by the cruel realities of war to make difficult choices of either painfully surrendering their dignity in exchange of security or bravely fighting for their name and worthiness to a detrimental end.

The talented Artist Playground Players and guest actors in the play are as follows: CHAYONG - Mariella Munji Laurel,JhaekaMadronio, Ira Ruzz, Farlin Flores, and JacelleEscanan; HIROHITO - AnjoResurreccion and Manu Gallardo San Pedro; UNYO - Coco Mark and Christian James Tiongson; CARDING - Aaron Dioquino, Sheneill Solis and John Racho; PILANG - SheryllVillamorCeasico and LodieAtis; ANDONG - Greg Abelardo De Leon and Gilbert Bacolod; MAKAPILI -Joseph Navarro; SUNDALO - Sheniell Solis and MiguellArnaldo.

SYNOPSIS:

The main character of the story is a strong-willed woman named Chayong who is betrothed to a guerilla named Unyo. On the night of Unyo’s departure to join the fight against the Japanese, Chayong was raped by Hirohito, a Japanese Officer and her brother Carding was emasculated for defending her. The unspeakable act bore Chayong a child. Hirohito upon learning this was filled with remorse and tried to rectify his transgression by providing for Chayong’s family and offering marriage. But the news of Unyo and Carding’s death from the hands of the Japanese invaders ignited a great fire in Chayong’s heart, a fire that rages for justice, a fire the blazes for vengeance, a fire that will burn through her soul to commit an unspeakable act herself.

The artistic team of LAGABLAB is led by Roeder Camanag - Artistic Director; Paul Jake Paule – Director; Dan Hollanda – Playwright; Jeffrey Camanag - Production Consultant; Coleen Lanit - Lights Designer;    Glenn MacalongCaspe – Production Designer; Ira Ruzz – Costume Designer; Princess April Tuason – Dramaturg.

The production team are as follows:Kimberly Claire Somoza – Production Manager;Toots Tolentino – Publicist;Rowena Jarito - Stage Manager; Emil Tiangco - Assistant Stage Manager; Glenn MacalongCaspe -  Spinner;Coleen Lanit - Lights Boardman;Dan Sheneill Solis - Props Head; Sharmaine Sarmiento and Noela Marie Dela Cruz - Stage Hands.

For tickets and inquiries, visit Artist Playground's Facebook Page  or contact 0926 932 3179.

Always Upon A Time by Trumpets

Once upon a time, I was able to watch Fables and Parables because some of my friends and my cousin attended an acting workshop called Playshop. After their showcase, I was able to see them grew in the acting business.

Years later, this inspires me to write reviews of theatrical productions that I watch. Now, Trumpets is going back to its roots doing their own original story Fables and Parables now entitled, Always Upon A Time.

What do I mean on getting back to the roots? Trumpets is not only concentrated on musicals but also straight plays. It hones the Playshop attendees to become better actors. Always Upon A Time is a revisit to old stories we take for granted like Aesop’s Fables and stories and parables from the Bible.

What I am really looking forward to is The Fisherman and His Wife. It is not a familiar tale but it is a very dominating piece among all the stories. It is longer, visually creative and funny but with lesson to live by as well as the other tales that will be told.

According to director Steven Conde, this is an entirely new production. Even if you already seen Fables and Parables, it will be different. Not because of the new talented cast but because of how it will be presented. Even though the stories are stand alone, it will old be unified.

Another director Joaquin Valdes said that it will also have use of ventriloquism in the production and some of the puppets are made by the cast themselves. It shows how dedicated and flexible are the kids. They juggle with school and theatre at the same time.

I got to meet one of the cast Crystal Paras. She told me how she got into the theatre not because her parents are also theatre actors but because she love to act. I also told her how I love to write about theatre because I have friends who attended Playshop and even performed for Trumpets.

Always Upon A Time is not only entertaining but also educational. It is ideal for schools and families and it would make a good idea for students to be exposed in theatre and get entertained. It will run for two days only with five shows on October 29 and 30 RCBC Theater. You may buy tickets via TIcketworld. Follow this blog for more updates and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

Samsung and Yuchengco Museum extend Culture Connect: Castrillo @ 50 Instagram contest until end of September

Press release

Manila, Philippines, September 5, 2016 – In August, Samsung and Yuchengco Museum launched Culture Connect: Castrillo @ 50, an Instagram contest, which aims to strengthen Filipinos’ patriotism and appreciation for public art.

The Instagram contest commemorates the works of nationalist Filipino sculptor, Eduardo Castrillo, as he celebrates 50 years of being a professional artist. Known as the monument maker, Castrillo created masterpieces such as Binhi ng mga Bayani found at Rizal Park, and People Power located along EDSA, which are vivid reflections of the Philippine history and culture.

Culture Connect: Castrillo @ 50 has run through the entire duration of August, and will be extended until September 30 to accommodate more entries.

Same contest mechanics remain applicable. See them below.

1.     Post a photo of any of the select public art monuments on Instagram, and tell us what it means to you as a Filipino. Be as expressive and creative Tag @CastrilloCultureConnect and use the hashtags #SamsungCultureConnect and #Castrillo50. (See list of select monuments here.)

2.     Up to three entries per person may be submitted under professional or open category. First-place winners under each category get a Samsung Galaxy S7 edge and a Gear VR. Winning contest photos will be featured on the Culture Explorer application.

3.     Winning entries will be announced online on October 7, and will be awarded on October 13. Winners are to be contacted regarding the awarding through Instagram.

For more details, visit www.eduardocastrillo.com, and follow @CultureConnectCastrillo50 on Instagram.

ADIDAS ORIGINALS – NMD COLOUR BOOST

Press release

PHILIPPINES – adidas Originals brings full color-blocking to the NMD model for the first time ever, opening up a world of color possibilities for its groundbreaking BOOST runner silhouette.

Taking a tonal approach to its first color-blocked release, an iteration of the NMD_R1 feature tonal details in Core Black, from the stretch-mesh construction and welded three-stripes to the heel patch, three-stripes and iconic BOOST tooling, whilst an accompanying NMD_XR1 silhouette assumes a striking two tone effect in shades of black, featuring micro-rib knit and premium material overlays. Tonal EVA plug inserts complete the design, rendering 2016’s most iconic footwear series in its purest form yet.

The NMD_R1 Triple Black drops worldwide on September 17.

A September with a Twist on Discovery Channel

Press release

Who says science is boring? Discovery Channel will strike ‘boring’ out of your vocabulary this month with high-standard factual entertainment and programs which will definitely give you some good laughs.

September on Discovery Channel kicks off with a show that is designed to tackle basically…everything. The first season of HOW TO BUILD EVERYTHING will take audiences through how to build a state-of-the-art laser-guided cow milking machine, to the designs behind a 20-story cruise ship, to the transition of a tandem vibratory roller aka steam roller aka a cartoon bunny-flattening machine, and a ton of other mind-blowing engineering marvels. All these, plus a couple of witty commentaries inserted here and there, are rolled into one show.

The new series features a cast of whip-smart and hilarious personalities including: comedian and former airplane mechanic Alonzo Bodden, science communicator and bug expert Alie Ward, real-life doctor and Jane the Virgin’s Keller Wortham, Nerdist science editor Kyle Hill, tech expert and futurist Veronica Belmont, mad inventor Eric Gradman, astronaut Leland Melvin, and so many more.

Augmented with CGI, the brilliant commentators will take the viewers through each build, while a retro-style test lab demonstrates scientific concepts.

Do not miss out on How To Build Everything as it premieres September 7, and airs every Sunday thereafter at 9pm.

From the lab, Discovery Channel goes over the internet to hunt for the world’s top 20 YouTube videos featuring home-made science stunts and experiments. In each episode of the fourth season of YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED, a fast-paced countdown of the cleverest, funniest, most daring, or just downright bizarre clips, is sure to come.

 

Photos courtesy of Discovery Channel

Each episode revolves around a theme, along with an explanation and breakdown from some of the world’s best science experts. With the help of amazing storytelling graphics, the expert panel explains the what, how and why of the science that made these clips possible.

What outrageous footage can viewers expect? Visualize a Brazilian man who can hold his breath for more than 20 minutes, or tiny helicopters that can lift a woman in Germany, or maybe the Finnish man who can fly with his own rocket boots. That is the kind of clever and daring that is expected to happen as You Have Been Warned premieres September 14, and airs Wednesdays at 8.10pmonly on Discovery Channel.