By Boy Villasanta
The local residents of Sta. Ana, Manila will once more be entertained and informed, sanctified as well when Tanghalang Sta. Ana presents Wednesday evening at 7 "Ang Martir Sa Golgota," a passion play which deals with the sacrifices of Jesus Christ to save men from sins, at the Sta. Ana Town Plaza.
Better known as senaculo, a Spanish-influenced drama, "Ang Martir Sa Golgota" stars young actor Jao Mapa who plays Jesus Christ for the first time in his acting career both on TV and the movies.
"This is also my first time to tackle Jesus Christ on stage," said Jao after his exhaustive performance Tuesday night at the San Juan Tanghalan ng Masa stage.
During the carrying of the cross tableaux, Jao had to walk in the main roads as well as the inner streets of San Juan. Most people of San Juan admired the way the actor played his part in the traditional passion play.
"Jao was very tired," batted in Danny Lopez, the production’s stage manager.
"This is also a form of reflection during this time of Lent," added Mapa who seemed to have enjoyed and relished the experience.
"This is my religious vow," exclaimed the versatile actor.
During the show, Jao’s wife and their three children were present to lend spiritual boosting to him. His kids were proud of the role their father took in.
"Senaculo like this is enjoyable indeed," commented Jao.
He also realized an additional insight in life. "I have a new family now," he said referring to the production crew and performers of Tanghalang Sta. Ana of which Lou Veloso, Jr., a councilman in Manila, heads.
"I’ve been producing this senaculo some twenty years ago. It has its rewards. It is also inspiring. You bring back memories of the old times.," Lou told abs-cbnNEWS.com.
Veloso has been touring senaculo during Lent in various parts of the country but his final staging is in his district Sta. Ana.
"Almost all my actors are from Sta. Ana. We hold acting workshops regularly for our plays," he said.
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