MUSIC 10 / PHILIPPINE OPERA / 20TH AND 21ST CENTURY MULTIMEDIA FORM / QUARTER 4

Summary

This video explores the rich history of Philippine opera, tracing its roots back to the 19th century. It delves into the development of Filipino opera, touching on key works such as *Sandugong Panaginip*, *La Loba Negra*, and *El Filibusterismo*. The video also highlights significant theaters in the Philippines, like Teatro Zorrilla and the Metropolitan Theater, that played a crucial role in shaping the country's operatic landscape. Through its exploration of opera's cultural and historical significance, the video offers an insightful look into how opera reflects the Filipino experience and national identity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Opera is a dramatic art form that combines music, text (libretto), and theatrical elements such as acting, scenery, costumes, and sometimes dance.
• 😀 Filipino opera has its roots in the 19th century, influenced by foreign performers, particularly Spanish zarzuela, which was a popular theatrical form in the Philippines.
• 😀 The performance of opera is usually accompanied by an orchestra, with singers performing in a specific area known as the 'stage' while the orchestra is in the 'orchestra pit.'
• 😀 Filipino opera often centers around themes of tragedy, romance, deceit, and human frailty, with unresolved conflicts and dramatic endings.
• 😀 Major theaters in the Philippines, such as Teatro Zorrilla, Metropolitan Theater, and Teatro de Tondo, have been key venues for Filipino operatic performances.
• 😀 'Sandugong Panaguinip' (1902) is recognized as the first Filipino opera, symbolizing the acceptance of American rule in the country and produced by Molina Benito Theater Company.
• 😀 'Le Congbini' (1933) is another notable Filipino opera composed by Patricio Mariano, and was performed by renowned operatic divas of the time.
• 😀 'La Loba Negra' is a three-act Filipino opera based on the historical assassination of Governor-General Francisco Bustamante and the revenge of his wife, Luisa.
• 😀 'Noli Me Tangere' (1957), composed by Felipe Padilla de Leon with a libretto by Guillermo Tolentino, depicts the injustices of Spanish colonization and helped ignite the revolution.
• 😀 'El Filibusterismo' (1970), a sequel to 'Noli Me Tangere,' reflects the ongoing struggle for freedom and the need for revolution in the face of corruption and oppression under Spanish rule.
• 😀 The video features clips from Filipino operas such as 'La Loba Negra,' 'Noli Me Tangere,' and 'El Filibusterismo,' offering a glimpse into the emotional and dramatic nature of these performances.

Q & A

What is opera and where did it originate?

Opera is a musical and theatrical art form that combines drama, music, and performance. It originated in Italy at the end of the 16th century and later spread throughout Europe.

How are dialogues presented in an opera?

In an opera, dialogues are sung rather than spoken. These sung dialogues are known as 'recitatives.'

What role does the orchestra play in an opera?

The orchestra accompanies the singers and helps convey the emotions and themes of the opera. The orchestra typically performs in an area known as the 'orchestra pit' in front of the singers on stage.

When did Filipino opera begin to take shape, and what influences contributed to its development?

Filipino opera began to take shape in the mid-19th century, influenced by foreign performers, Spanish zarzuela, and other theatrical traditions. The genre was shaped by local cultural contexts and themes.

What are some common themes in Filipino opera?

Common themes in Filipino opera include tragedy, romance, deceit, murder, and vendettas. These narratives often feature tragic endings and unresolved conflicts.

Can you name some notable local theaters that played a role in the development of Filipino opera?

Notable local theaters include Teatro Zorrilla, Metropolitan Theater, Variadadas Theater, Teatro de Tondo, and Circo Teatro de Bilibid. Each of these theaters contributed to the flourishing of Filipino opera.

What is 'Sandugong Panaginip,' and why is it significant in Philippine opera history?

'Sandugong Panaginip' is considered the first Filipino opera, with music by Ladislao Bonus and a libretto by Pedro Paterno. It premiered in 1902 and symbolized the acceptance of American rule in the Philippines.

What historical events inspired the opera 'La Loba Negra'?

'La Loba Negra' is inspired by the story of the assassination of Governor General Francisco Bustamante and the subsequent revenge of his wife, Luisa, who becomes known as La Loba Negra (The Black She-Wolf).

What is the plot of the opera 'Noli Me Tangere,' and who composed it?

'Noli Me Tangere' is an opera composed by Felipe Padilla de Leon, with a libretto by Guillermo Tolentino. It is based on the novel by José Rizal and portrays the struggles of Filipinos during Spanish colonization, focusing on the need for revolution.

How does 'El Filibusterismo' relate to 'Noli Me Tangere,' and what themes does it explore?

'El Filibusterismo' is a sequel to 'Noli Me Tangere,' also composed by Felipe Padilla de Leon. It explores the continued struggle for Filipino freedom from colonial rule, with themes of corruption, revolution, and social injustice.