“BY WHATEVER means it is accomplished, the prime business of a play is to arouse the passions of its audience so that by the route of passion may be opened up new relationships between a man and men, and between men and Man. Drama is akin to the other inventions of man in that it ought to help us to know more, and not merely to spend our feelings.” -- Arthur Miller (1915-2005)

I have always appreciated theatrical artistry and performances, and have been troubled by the apparent lack of such in the recent years. Theatre performances are an experience to relish. It gives one a certain high, being in awe at the excellence of the actors’ no-take performances.

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The proliferation of technological means of entertainment has put theatrical art and the like aside. It was such a relief then when I learned that Saint Louis University has put up its own theatre company. For its 11th season, their impressive lineup of plays will revolve around the theme -- KAHULUGAN.

The plays of this season will focus on man’s existence in relation to himself, to others, and to his environment.

Established in 1998, Tanghalang SLU opened this season with “Bakali Sakali,” a play written by 2007 Palanca Awardee Jose Dennis C. Teodosio and directed by Tanghalang SLU’s trainor and director Dan Rommel Riopay.

The story of “Baka Sakali” revolves around a grandfather who eagerly convinces his grandson to push their luck with taking a chance in a noon time TV show that promises instant fortune. Very opportune in these hard times, I believe.

Some people, driven by the need for money or by dreams of a more comfortable life made possible by money, take their chances with game shows, lottery tickets and the like. The cast, led by Kenneth Aglubo (who plays the role of “Lolo”) and Kevin John Delos Santos (the “Apo”) had skilfully put life into the characters of the play. Their performances had the audience connecting with the characters, riding the wave of the characters’ lives.

True to its mission of providing the highest quality and excellent theatre, Tanghalang SLU has once again awed and inspired the audience with the stellar performance of “Baka Sakali.” It has achieved its objective of educating and awakening cultural, political and social consciousness through its performances. It has, in a way, stimulated a long-forgotten essential -- a conversation with one’s true self.