The second season of CCP National Theater Live (CCP NTL) has kicked off with an exciting array of new and returning theater productions captivating audiences across Metro Manila and Cebu. The season began with a special screening of “Vanya,” an adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s classic, at Ayala Malls Cinemas in Greenbelt 3.
Adapted by Simon Stephens and directed by Sam Yates, “Vanya” stars Andrew Scott, renowned for his roles as Moriarty in BBC’s “Sherlock” and the Priest in “Fleabag.” This one-man adaptation delves into the complexities of human emotions, focusing sharply on hopes, dreams, and regrets.
“Andrew Scott is a brilliant actor. His ability to shift between characters and convey emotions is incredible. You can literally see the light in his eyes change,” said Fay Castro, who attended the special screening at Ayala Malls Cinemas.
Since 2023, CCP and Ayala Malls Cinemas have collaborated to bring the best of British theater to the Philippines, offering audiences the chance to experience high-definition performances in cinemas.
“This is the closest I can get to experiencing British productions. Watching in the cinema offers a communal experience that you can’t get at home,” shared Reine Paisley, another audience member.
Matthew Viray, a fan of the CCP NTL screenings, agreed: “While watching digitally at home is convenient, experiencing it in a physical space with a community is something special. It’s wonderful to have these experiences again.”
Inclusive World-Class Theater Experience for All
Paisley and Viray praised the accessibility of CCP NTL to audiences in the Philippines. “Having the opportunity to watch NTL productions here in Manila for an affordable price of Php300 is fantastic,” said Paisley.
Viray highlighted the challenge of bringing actual British productions to the Philippines and welcomed the CCP NTL screenings as a valuable alternative. “It’s great to see these productions in the cinema regularly. It gives everyone a chance to experience it,” he said.
Responding to popular demand for re-screenings and new selections, CCP and Ayala Malls have teamed up again for this season. This collaboration continues their partnership, which also includes CCP’s “The Met: Live in HD” in collaboration with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.
CCP Artistic Director Dennis Marasigan emphasized that global inclusivity and artistic excellence are central to CCP’s mission. “If these programs contribute to the cultural development of the Philippines and enhance our appreciation of artistic excellence, then CCP will continue to deliver them to Filipino audiences,” Marasigan said.
Ayala Malls shares this commitment to bringing world-class entertainment to its audiences. “Ayala Malls has been dedicated to making top-tier art and music more accessible to everyone,” the mall representatives stated.
Marasigan also sees CCP NTL programming as an opportunity for Filipino artists to benchmark their work. “Seeing how productions are done in cultural capitals like New York and London could inspire and elevate how we do productions here in the Philippines,” he added.
For Season 2, CCP NTL is now also screening at Ayala Vertis in Quezon City and Cebu City. The season includes Shakespearean classics like “King Lear” and “Hamlet,” contemporary works such as James Graham’s “Dear England,” Jack Thorne’s “Motive and the Cue,” and Tim Price’s “Nye.” Popular productions like “Frankenstein” and “Fleabag” will have reruns this season.
For the first half of the CCP National Theatre Live screening schedule, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and follow CCP’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
