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Heart Mate Canola Oil, the Philippines’ leading canola oil brand, isn’t just unveiling a new look — it’s reshaping how consumers experience a kitchen essential. With a thoughtfully redesigned bottle that blends aesthetics and function, the brand’s refresh doesn’t shout for attention — it earns it.
At first glance, the new Heart Mate bottle strikes a balance of elegance and practicality. Designed by no less than... read more
Thanks to TV and film adaptations. Musicals are starting to make their way into the mainstream. While most Cebuanos can sing along to ‘On My Own’, not all are aware that we have our own show we can be proud of. A musical that has been touring local and international destinations for years.
This show is Siddhartha the Musical. It tells the story of the historical figure most people know as the Buddha. While many non-Buddhists might be familiar with his image (as seen in temples and figurines). Perhaps some of his wise words. Not all are aware that he was Prince Siddhartha of the Shakya Clan of India. Before he became the Enlightened One. He grew up amid luxury and opulence in a palace at the foothills of the Himalayas. Before his simple monastic life. As in every man’s story, he had a family (albeit a royal one) and friends. Fell in love, went through self-discovery, and sought answers to his many questions. Yet, it led him on an unexpected path. The play explores his journey from birth till death. Telling his tale through music and movement in three acts.
The script and some of the song lyrics are based on the book The Biography of the Sakyamuni Buddha. A book by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Also the founder of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA). While the play aims to educate and inspire, Siddhartha is not on a mission of conversion. It prefers to deliver the universal message of oneness. The lessons (called dharma) it seeks to impart, are applicable to people of all races, cultures, and religious affiliations. The cast, in fact, is almost entirely Christian. (Speaking of oneness, the cast celebrated Christmas last year. In a Buddhist temple in a Muslim country!)
Since its opening in the Waterfront Grand Ballroom in 2007. Siddhartha the Musical has gone places. It has made its mark. In Manila, Iloilo, Bacolod, Taiwan, the USA, Singapore, Malaysia, Hongkong, Macau, New Zealand, and Japan. Yet while it has found its wings, this musical is a home-grown gem. A proud collaboration of spectacular Cebuano talent. Award-winning songwriter Jude Gitamondoc (book and music), artistic director Sarah Mae Enclona-Henderson, choreographer Vince Gaton, and costume designer OJ Hofer. As well as an entirely Bisaya cast, crew, and production team. Produced by Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Philippines and Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Philippines.
This year marks its tenth anniversary tour, making it Cebu’s longest running original musical. Before it continues to show in world theaters, the Siddhartha family is enthusiastic about bringing it back to the place closest to their hearts: home.
As a way of giving back to their family, friends, and fellow Cebuanos, all tickets are free of charge. Matinee (2:00 PM) and gala (7:00 PM) shows will be the Theater One of SM City Cebu from December 8–12.
For more information, like Siddhartha The Musical Facebook page.
For inquiries, call +63-32-253-8144. Visit Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple at 246-3 V. Rama Avenue, Cebu City.
