Queer shadow puppet play reimagines Filipino mythology

“Lakapati,” a two-act queer shadow puppet play, discusses LGBTQIA+ experiences in Filipino culture.

It follows the titular character, an intersex god of agriculture and fertility once revered by the Tagalogs, as she embarks on a journey to self-discovery.

Amid her struggles to find the balance between self-expression and self-preservation under the criticizing eyes of the church and the public, she meets Bathala. Grounded on the norms built on tolerance and obligation, the two embrace true solidarity.

“Lakapati” was produced by Balay Tamawo Puppet Theater, a group of Theater Arts students Charlize Gloria, Shang Belleza, Joaquinito Ventura and Skip Arroyo from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Arts, Culture and Performance.

It’s directed by budding dramaturg and filmmaker Gio C. Potes, who cowrote the piece together with Aidan Angan and A.D. Belleza. Gloria served as assistant director.

It features performances by Andrea Resurreccion, Kelsi Labador, Darcy Vales, Robe Dagcuta, Erich Baldove, Cher Victorino, Rosea Ansay, Yanna Baleda, Grace Baquiano, Samantha Guerrero, Gero Rojas, Althea Guancia, and Alex Cruz.

“By reimagining the myth of Lakapati and Bathala, we wish to explore the queer experiences in the two of the most prominent social structures in the Philippines today—religion and family,” the group explained. “This play asks the timely question: Why do we punish queer identities, when so much of Filipino culture not only celebrates, but relies on the community that preserves it?”

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With “Lakapati,” the team examines the queer background within Filipino culture, explores themes of individuality and belongingness and fosters dialogue on LGBTQIA+ acceptance.

Through modernized Philippine mythology, which reflects the precolonial society that was once inclusive toward the queer community, the young artists likewise hope to encourage parents in the audience to openly learn and reflect on the state of queerness in their homes.

Lakapati is open to the public. It was staged on Aug. 5 to Aug. 9 at the 6/F Black Box Theater, Benilde Design + Arts Campus, 950 Pablo Ocampo St., Malate, Manila. There’s a gala show today at 2 p.m. Gala admission is P450.