Photo Coverage: NOLI ME TANGERE, The Opera Meets the Press

Manila, Philippines--The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and J&S Productions Inc., in cooperation with Ayala Foundation, will co-present the Philippines' first full-length opera, Noli Me Tangere The Opera's 60th-anniversary production at the CCP's Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo from January 28 (gala premiere) to February 3, 2017.

The producers, artistic team, some lead cast members, and the newly formed Noli Symphony Orchestra--under the baton of Maestro Herminigildo Ranera--were recently presented to the press.

Based on Dr. Jose Rizal's 1887 classic novel of the same name, Noli Me Tangere, The Opera was written by National Artist for Music Felipe de Leon ("Payapang Daigdig," "Sarong Banggi") and was set to a libretto by National Artist for Sculpture Guillermo Tolentino. Both creators, who were obsessed with Dr. Rizal's landmark novel, finished the opera in 1957, which premiered at the Far Eastern University in the same year and made its CCP debut in 1974.

This production, which recently had critically-acclaimed engagements in New York, Washington D.C., and at the Resorts World Manila, will feature more than 200 opera singers, musicians, and crew, 16 scene changes, and a brand-new staging under the directorial reins of debuting stage director Jerry Sibal, a sought-after event designer in New York City, who is also designing new sets and costumes.

Noli Me Tangere, The Opera follows the story of Juan Crisostomo Ibarra, who returns to the Philippines after pursuing scholarly studies in Europe. He plans to open up a school and marry Maria Clara, his betrothed. However, parish priest Padre Damaso, the archenemy of the Ibarras, is out to hinder Crisostomo's plans, which creates a dramatic storyline of forbidden love, betrayal, and revenge.

For special ticket deals and discounts to the 60th-anniversary production of Noli Me Tangere, The Opera, contact J&S Productions Inc. (0926) 038 0548, (0921) 890 3816, (632) 998 2356, or the CCP Box Office (632) 832 3704/06, or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.

Photos: Paolo Ruiz

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