CONVERSATION sings and swings in a revival play encounter, Song of Bernadette, that will touch the hearts with beautiful messages delivered through a musical.
After eight years, Jessica Arnaiz—who played St. Bernadette in Song of Bernadette in the past—comes back onstage as Mother Superior in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Punta Princesa, Cebu City.
Arnaiz’s return as Mother Superior aims to spread the message of love through her solo song entitled Close the Door. She is just one of the many faithful devotees of Our Lady of Lourdes to perform at the Centerstage, SM Seaside on Feb. 17, 18 and 19.
Arnaiz said that the execution of her role and memorization is easy, however, her biggest challenge is how to make her role remarkable as Mother Superior.
The play was inspired on how miracles can change the life of millions of people around the world. This musical is a re-staging of the first production that was for the 150th anniversary of the apparitions of the blessed Mary.
According to director Mary Rose Villacastin-Maghuyop, the play aims to give people a view of different perspectives of how things are going on in their lives, and remind them amid all the troubles, not to forget the Blessed Lady.
“We want to retell the story to remind people that you can be part of the miracle.”
Expect a lot of singing and dancing and a more dynamic-contemporary choreography. There are over a hundred members in the cast and crew; 80 percent are parishioners. Musical director is Niño James Banares, dance director Niño Matillano, and original songs are by Jude Gitamondoc.
Maghuyop shared that they have never been into serious trials in the pre-production. “But the real challenge is to stay true to what you’re doing.” For her, Song of Bernadette is like love on stage—a better avenue to spend Valentine’s week.
“What is Valentine’s after all? It’s about love. This is where you’ll see the very different definition of what love is: Total submission, humility, obedience.”
Ticket prices are at P300 and P500: 2 p.m. matinee and 7 p.m. gala respectively. Student rate is only P150. Bring school I.D. Eula L. Talisic, USJ-R Comm Intern