Features Augustinian the
The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines usa pub PHOTOs / daniel p. abutas and mara elaiza a. flores
usa pub PHOTO / daniel p. abutas
Restless and Relentless “ T hou hast made us fo r T h y self , O L o r d , a n d ou r hea r t is r estless u n til it fi n ds its r est i n T hee .”
- A u g usti n e of H ippo , T h e C on f essions o f S aint A ugustine
By Ayah Danica V. Granada
They say a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Our Patron Saint, Augustine, took the road less traveled and embarked on a pilgrimage that led him to self-discovery, and to God. Based on the libretto of the Restless Heart play, first produced in the University in 1994, Restless Pilgrim, an Opera in Four Acts on the life of St. Augustine, composed by Gerardo Muyuela and Beny Castillon and written by Flaviano Manalo, was restaged as part of the University’s 60th anniversary celebration. The said play was under the direction of Eric Divinagracia in collaboration with the Little Theater, Fine Arts, Interior Design and Architecture Departments, the Administration, and the Theology Department. The opera top-billed talents such as National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) champion Wynn Natividad portraying Augustine’s mother, Monica; and ILOPRISAA winners Johanne Melody Manzano as Augustine’s lover and Merky Arboleda as the young Augustine. Costume designs featured were created by USA
Alumna and current Iloilo Designer’s Guild President, Jaki Penalosa. Distinguished rosters of Augustinian performing artists also took part including the USA Choir, USA Troubadours and USA Kawilihan under the artistic direction of Ballet Philippines’ alumna Annie Divinagracia-Sartorio. Many had been learned from Augustine’s autobiography especially of bringing one’s heart closer to God –the only place to find true happiness. But who was this ‘sinner turned saint’ that “Restless Pilgrim” aims to introduce to us? Make Me Pure… but Not Yet Portraying the young Augustine is Melky Arboleda, a BS Foreign Service 2 student, who has yet to fulfill journeys of his own. Despite the fact that he is not a bonafide Troubadouhr, Melky’s passion for singing snagged him the lead role. “Having been given the chance to play the role of
Augustine is a blessing,” he comments, “putting myself in his shoes was not as challenging as I thought it’d be. As a foreign service student, our lectures relate to aspects of Augustine’s life which the opera focuses on especially that of travel, laws and study of rhetoric.” Production Practice Blues Pre-production preparation has become a constant battle
and his co-actors had to follow. All these time management practices were made bearable under the guidance of their coach, Arne Lubasan, awardwinning artistic director of the USA Troubadours, who also played the role of the younger Augustine during his time at the production’s premiere. Ever at Work and Ever at Rest Not all second chances
“Not all second chances are productions of a failed second attempt.” among studies, rehearsals, and personal choices. With 14 songs to be sung twice a day during the production’s three showings, actors need to set their priorities and focus on the show. Discipline and repeatedly listening to the production music while studying, vocalizing daily, avoidance of sweets, and getting enough rest were among the rigorous routines Melky
are productions of a failed first attempt. Singing and appearing only in the prologue and epilogue in this year’s production, Arne Lubasan compared his roles and explained, “I’m no longer delivering the role of a young, energetic, restless and adventurous Augustine I took years ago. The older Augustine I’m portraying now is wiser and calmer because of his
new and deeper understanding of the world and the truths he discovered. He is quite a subdued character.” But Augustine wasn’t the only one who has grown in wisdom; there is no doubt that Mr. Lubasan has too. Can you say ‘double trouble’? Dilige Et Quod Vis Fac “Love and do what you will.” The cast and singers aren’t all strictly limited to Conservatory of Music students. Auditions were held and an array of students from different departments was selected and later on assigned roles. Taking time out of their already busy schedules for the time-consuming rehearsals are surely acts done out of love and dedication. “I expect them to deliver what is expected of them as artists and really touch audience’s lives through their roles,” adds Mr. Lubasan. Late Have I Loved Thee With songs composed by Mr. Muyuela, Mr. Lubasan hopes that “For those who do not know Augustine, I hope this production will and can help them understand his restless journey through music.” He also adds that, The Lily and
the River was his favorite among the production’s songs. “Technically speaking, with an easily retained melody, it has the elements of becoming a mainstream radio-friendly hit song. It effortlessly captures the listener’s ears and touches a lover’s soul.” Through the role of the young Augustine, Melky and Mr. Lubasan have discovered more not only about themselves but also about our Patron Saint as well. Their acquired wisdom was not only limited to theology classes and manuscripts. Having been given the opportunity in Restless Pilgrim, both found out how much talent God has given them. They were very lucky to have shared their talents with the Augustinians on premiere night and showings. We are all guilty of dwelling on temptations and pleasures of our world. “We don’t necessarily need to aim for sainthood, but like Augustine, we must also be converted. I wanted the audience to feel Augustine’s restlessness so that each of them will experience real conversion. If our Patron Saint was able to veer away from his immoral ways, we can too. It is never too late, ”shares Mr. Lubasan.