Of beguiling ballet and Brainard’s book

THAT master wordsmith, Cebuana Cecilia Manguerra-Brainard, has authored and edited 20 books, starting with her first novel, “When the Rainbow Goddess Wept” and evolving into various short story collections, non-fiction books and others.

Her third novel, “The Newspaper Widow,” was launched by the University of Santo Tomas Publishing House in Ayala Center Cebu during the Cebu Literary Festival (Cebu Litfest).

Inspired by her great-grandmother, Remedios Diosomito Cuenco, who was widowed at the age of 39, and who took over her husband’s Imprenta Rosario Press, Brainard’s imaginings gave birth to this novel. It starts off as a literary mystery, but develops into a deeper plot involving the friendship of two women of different temperaments and the men in their lives.

The book launch was the highlight of the Litfest, with founder Hendri Go, jubilant at its success. Adding spice to the occasion was the “Talk Show” with Brainard done by writer Cris Evert Lato-Ruffolo.

California-based Brainard is the multi-awarded recipient of various literary awards both in her native Cebu: “Outstanding Individual Award” from the city of Cebu; National Awards, and the prestigious California Arts Council Fellowship in Fiction etc.

Balik-balik, Cecilia!

u2022••

Balletcenter has put Cebu on the ballet map!

It has attended international competitions, one of which was the prestigious “Star of Canaan Dance International” Ballet competition held in Hong Kong.

Under the tulelage of artistic director Nicolas Pacaña, the girls—Veia Lampert, Bernadette Sinues, Judith Po, Arabella Arquillano and Takira McCabe—made their country proud by bringing home the plum prizes...and scholarships besides! At the moment, Veia and Bernadette are on scholarship at the Australian Conservatory in Melbourne.

Go for the gold, girls!

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