MANILA, Philippines—Be enthralled by the colorful creatures of Philippine folk literature and mythology as the UP Playwrights’ Theater puts the spotlight once again on “Umaaraw Umuulan Kinakasal ang Tikbalang,” Dulaang UP’s hit production last season. The play is adapted from Gilda Cordero-Fernando’s children’s short story “The Magic Circle,” written by Rody Vera and directed by José Estrella.

Cordero-Fernando is a regular columnist for Inquirer Sunday lifestyle section.

Relive Jepoy and Galis’ journey to a magical wonderland teeming with strange creatures and even stranger events. Be acquainted with the enormous Doña Geronima with her clean and shiny plates and her Spanish-speaking dwarf maitre d’ Pacqui.  Chat with talking pythons and monkeys, tiyanak debutantes, ballroom dancing aswangs, and with the woeful kapre named Kap. To cap the adventure off, witness the exchange of vows between two enormous tikbalangs as it rains and shines at the same time.

More than being a crash course on Philippine folklore and myth, “Umaaraw, Umuulan Kinakasal ang Tikbalang” is a timely reminder of the urgency of caring for the environment and that all creatures big or small, whether from this world or another, are deserving of our respect and compassion.

Award-winning artists collaborate to give the audience yet another visual feast. Sculptor Leeroy New’s sculptural costume pieces and Don Salubayba’s unique shadow puppetry will surely awe the audience anew. All these are complemented by Lex Marcos’ set and lights, Tj Ramos’ sound design, and choreography by Stephen Viñas.

The play runs from November 21 to December 9 at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, University of the Philippines, Diliman.

For ticket inquiries, please contact Sam Clarin or Camille Guevara at the DUP Office at 926-1349, 981-8500 local 2449 or 433-7840.