Dulaang Sibol's Sinta 2012

After more than a decade, I was able to watch Sinta again. This is the first stage musical I was able to watch this year.

To those who have yet to hear about it, Sinta is the longest running Filipino-inspired version of The Fantastics. It’s legendary story is about two young people innocently thinking that their fathers are long-time rivals. Both grew up believing that their love story is against all odds ─ because they are too young and because their parents are firmly against their blooming relationship. In fact, a wall was built between their houses just so to secure their disconnection. As the essence of the story gradually unfolds, the lovers, Sinta and Narding discovered that everything is but a plot set out by their own fathers. The forever-enemies make-believe, the standing wall constructed with deception, the fantasy of the moon brilliantly shining above them – everything was made accordingly as planned. It would not have actually been an issue had they trusted their hearts more. Sinta’s faith in Narding’s sincerity to loving her was broken. Narding’s trust for Sinta’s real love for him was tainted. Their deference to the people who reared them in self-respect and integrity has faltered altogether. The love painted in red at the start of the scene has vanished away.

Just like any other love story, theirs was tested in hot water ─ the pain of separation, the agony of recalling how happier it was all in the beginning, the bitter truth that everything is cursed by a mere plot, and the sorrow of missing the one they really love.

I can freshly recall how this wonderful song reconnected their hearts:

“Alalahanin, gunitain kahapon nati'y sariwain
Nang kay lumanay, agos ng buhay
Alalahanin, gunitain nang puso nati'y wala pang galos
Pangarap nati'y wala pang gapos
Alalahanin, gunitain kahapon nati'y sariwain.”

(Interpreted as this, for the sake of my non-Filipino readers)

Remember our yesterday afresh when life is so gentle
Remember our yesterday when our hearts are free from pain
When our dreams are still unfastened
Remember our yesterday afresh

Besides that this show brings back the memories of my high school life and the recollection of wonderful friendship with my family there, Sinta remains remarkable because of the very person behind its scenes, the mentor of us all in Sibol Hesus School ─ Mr. Onofre Pagsanjan whom we fondly call Sir Pagsi. The ardor he has in serving the Lord through the people around him has grown deeper throughout time.

At the end of the show, I find myself dreaming again. Somewhere in this world wanders the other half of my life. That Narding is on his way to find the Sinta in me. ♥

Posted in: love is all there is,on stage