Old tale 'Ang Hukuman ni Sinukuan' gets a new face

Dugtong-dugtong na Sumbong (Ang Hukuman ni Sinukuan) is roughly one hour long, but the timeless tale is a delightful multi-sensory experience that covers an entire spectrum of colors. Adapted by Liza Magtoto for Tanghalang Pilipino's third production in its 24th season, Dugtong-dugtong na Sumbong is an entertaining whodunit set in the kingdom of Mariang Sinukuan in Pampanga. Directed by Tess Jamias, the musical is based on National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario's re-telling of a popular Asian folktale. The plot begins simply enough - the hen Martines appeals to Mariang Sinukuan to punish Kabayo, who has crushed her eggs. But, as with many crimes, questions must be answered in order to get to the bottom of things. Mariang Sinukuan conducts a thorough investigation, and it is soon revealed that the unfortunate fate of Martines' eggs is the result of a chain of events. Several others were involved in accidents leading to the unfortunate fate of Martines' eggs, and it is with sword-wielding Lamok that the fault is finally found. In the first five minutes, the theme is evident, and an unwieldy word comes to mind. Interconnectedness. Were the music (by Jed Balsamo) not as clever and catchy as it is, one would probably start humming Joey Ayala's "Magkaugnay." Despite its varied music, Dugtong-dugtong na Sumbong involves its audience by asking them to provide sound effects at certain points of the play. Though the play's most obvious target audience is children, it is rich with wisdom appropriate for all. Foresight, consideration for others, honesty and fairness are just a few of the values the play subtly promotes. It would do everyone good to see the play and remember these supposedly basic ideals, but those who are uneasy about audience participation should probably stay somewhere far from the stage. Before the play starts, the actors get the audience to practice making different animal sounds, which will be needed later on. At their signal, the audience will provide the sound effects, and those spotted not participating will be coaxed into doing so. Dugtong-dugtong na Sumbong is a minimalist production, with only four members in the cast, playing alternate roles, and impressively, musical instruments as well. Nina Angela Rumbines (as Mariang Sinukuan), Abner Delina, Marc Anthony Falcon and Michael Ian Lomongo deliver a seamless performance in Dugtong-dugtong na Sumbong, switching from speaking to singing, from guitar to xylophone, from flute to percussions. The skill with which the actors sing, act and play is amazing, but what really steals the show is the ingenious production design by fashion designer and artist Patty Eustaquio, whose favorite material - cardboard - takes centerstage in the play. With easily strapped-on costumes, the actors transform instantly from Martines to Pagong, from Palaka to Alitaptap, from Kabayo to Alimango. Mariang Sinukuan does not switch roles, as she remains onstage all throughout. Not only does the production design eliminate the need for a backstage, it highlights the actors' skill in slipping from role to role in almost no time at all. What could have otherwise been a boring, preachy tale is saved by Director Tess Jamias' playful treatment. The script is clever and funny and the songs are easy to sing along to, without sacrificing the message. - GMANews.TV