A TRIUMPHANT CELEBRATION OF THE SKE 50TH ANNIVERSARY

It was a triumphant celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Sining Kambayoka Ensemble (SKE) of the Mindanao State University Marawi City with performances of three of its landmark plays – Pilandok, Sulambi and Si Nonoy at Si Inday at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez last September 25-26 plus two outreach shows at the National Police College in Silang, Cavite Sept. 27 and at the Colegio Monterei de Pila in Laguna Sept. 28.

The program also featured two theater groups trained by former SKE artists-directors, the Sumindaw Performing Arts of Zamboanga del Sur and Sining Sarangan Ensemble of Gen. Santos City.

“We truly enjoyed the performance. It was so Engaging, so Vibrant, so Entertaining! Bravo to the whole cast and a huge congratulations!  So glad I didn’t miss this. Looking forward to more productions like this,” said Cathy Lee Roslovtsev, Ballerina formerly with Philippine Ballet Theater.

“Si Nonoy at Si Inday” offered a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary Filipino ethnic society. It is a testament to the power of Filipino storytelling. The play’s combination of humor, drama, and social commentary created a truly engaging and memorable experience,” said Mervyn Parangan Bana, cultural worker, Pagadian City.

“But the true “crescendo” of the day was an unforgettable performance, one that STIRRED my SOUL and left a Lasting Imprint Forever Etched in my Heart. Mabuhay kayo SKE!   I was completely captivated by the Sining Kambayoka Ensemble’s Breathtaking musical presentation of “Pilandok”, performed at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, CCP.  It was a masterpiece- entertaining, innovative, and filled with exceptional production value at every turn,” said Rosalie Zarate, Arts and Culture Influencer.

“Can’t contain my tears, emotions…happiness while watching ‘Pilandok’ at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez.  Can’t help but recollect and reminisce our time. Congratulations to the awesome and beautiful performance of the current members of the MSU – Sining Kambayoka Ensemble! Kudos to Artistic Director Pepito Sumayan,” said Debbie Nacalaban, SKE alumnae, New York.

“Sulambi is a unique story among many plays. Beautiful Subanen culture, it’s our first time to see their unique traditions,” according to high school students from Quezon City.

“I learned from Pilandok that a wise man may work hard for everything he desires, but when he reaches the end of his life, he realizes he no longer needs what he once thought was important,” said Noa Reyes, Grade 2, Colegio Monterei de Pila.

“The Philippines has a diverse culture and tradition. I am glad to witness an art form made by our brothers and sisters from Mindanao. It was a wonderful experience and an enlightening one,” said Joshua Panggat, Grade 12, Colegio Monterei de Pila.

“The visuals are fascinating, and the characters’ lines are thought-provoking. The music is pleasing to the ears and the storytelling is brilliant,” according to Aljon Divinigracia, Tayaw Troupe Artistic Director, Colegio Monterei de Pila.

The SKE 50th Anniversary outreach tour is presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines in partnership with the Kambayoka Center for Culture and Arts Development Inc., organized by the CCP Cultural Exchange Dept and the SKE 50th anniversary technical working committee with support from the National Police College, Colegio Monterei de Pila, SKE alumni, patrons and friends.