Towards SARIMANOK

On my point of view

Sarimanok: One Bird's Dream Tears a Tradition

On its 36^th year of celebration, from the resident theatre company of MSU-IIT, Integrated Performing Arts Guild (IPAG) proudly brings you Steven Patrick C. Fernandez’, SARIMANOK

It is a dance musical that is divided into two sessions. First is the gala night that happened last Nov. 28 and with the matinee session that happened the following day, 29.

Presenting: the internationally-acclaimed IPAG

The initial impression I could put on upon entering the gymnasium was the spectacular light up effects on the stage. It was the very first time that I’ve witnessed that stage on a vibrant manifestation with a huge cage-like formulation on the interior aisle. It would really capture the viewers’ eyes. Together with it is the fastidious shade over the entire stage that combined with the outward show. Moreover, the illumination applied on it was perfect for the said event that persuades the audience to appreciate it.The harmony and choice of music is well thought-out that suites a specific scene on the play. The dancers were all astonishing. They’ve danced with control of the show as a whole. The props and everything they wore added to their stunning effect on a viewer’s point of view. They made snappy actions to glide with the play which really astounded me upon watching them.

Amazing performance

The narration was made so good by the mask man who did his part thoroughly. The lip sync with the group singing agreeably was also magnificent that the voices of the characters keep on lingering to my ears right after the show. The audio was fine however some parts of the script are not well spoken that was maybe caused by a little technical problem of the lapels that they have.The rules were read for the audience earlier before the start of the show. Yet a delay in the starting time of the show made the viewers, who were mostly students, weary in the sense that the thrill they’ve had few hours ago was extended even in spite the fact that they’ve been on the venue already.

As the characters portray their roles

It was entitled, Sarimanok which is a legendary bird that is a popular symbol in the Muslim art of the southern Philippine islands. It has wings and a feathered tail, and holds a fish in its beak or talons. The bird's head is profusely decorated with scrolls, leaf and spiral motifs. This is the show was all about; the bird’s mistaken action which makes it a violation to their tradition was really her aspiration. And that is to explore, to expose and to discover.
At the end of every show, an implication by the viewers should be made for them to understand. Reactions, comments, suggestions are usually done in a show like this. But on my perspective, the notion this event tries to impart is that no one should be stopped from reaching his/her dreams and aspirations in life.
Sarimanok was punished to death not because she had her dream, but because of her bravery upon violating an essential tradition just to follow that certain dream. Are you going to flap your wings and take the risks? Or be what the people around you wants you to be? Are you a Sarimanok? All dreams could come true but only with the courage upon pursuing them. We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort. Dream as if you'll live forever. Live as if you'll die today.