Quomodo Desolata Es? Isang Dalamhati is once again back in the limelight as Areté produces the dramatic play once more. Inspired by A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino by National Artist Nick Joaquin, the production will be an exploration of Filipino identity amidst shifting legacies and familial bonds.
The play will feature versatile stage performances by Gab Pangilinan and Delphine Buencamino, who will return as sisters Paula and Candida Marasigan, who refuse to abandon their own home. Other returning cast members are Omar Uddin, Vino Mabalot, John Sanchez, Jethro Tenorio, JJ Ignacio, Maita Ponce, Brian Sy, Meyanne Plamenio-Cortezano, Rafael Jimenez, Roldine Ebrada, and Chantei Cortez.
First performed in 1995, “A Portrait…” was first seen in the Barangay Theater Guild at Aurora Gardens, Intramuros, which had been a major milestone in the local contemporary scene. Three decades have passed, and the play will once again see the light of day—this time adapted for modern audiences and directed by Guelan Varela-Luarca, and translated by Jerry Respeto.
The production will run from January 30, 2026, to February 8, 2026, at the Areté Ateneo de Manila University, Katipunan Ave in Quezon City. Obtain your tickets via arete.helixpay.ph.
Would you watch this reproduction of a classic theater play? Let us know in the comments below!