In celebration of its 50th anniversary that begins this month of September, the Cultural Center of the Philippines renews its partnership with the legendary craftsmen of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga for a showcase of lights billed Sinag: A Festival of Radiance, slated to launch on September 19, 7pm at the CCP Front Lawn at the CCP Complex in Pasay City.
Every evening until January 5, 2020, lanterns will glimmer in a light and sound spectacle that will delight passersby, tourists and visitors to the CCP. The annual lighting of the CCP facade, which started several years back, has become a tradition which the community looks forward to each year.
The unique partnership of the CCP with the City of San Fernando (celebrated the world over for the beauty and grandeur of its giant lanterns) is further enhanced by the art installation of award-winning multimedia artist Abdulmari “Toym” Imao, Jr. and the Kapampangan craftsmen from the renowned family of lanternmakers, now led by 5th generation artisan, Arvin Quiwa.
Music for Sinag: A Festival of Radiance was specially commissioned by the CCP. National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera wrote the lyrics of “Pagdiwang sa Ginintuang Pagsilang” with music and orchestration by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.
Imao’s installation, which will be placed at the CCP Front Lawn, will consist of a 20-feet lantern-type sundial representing the role of arts and culture in society over time, as well as a reiteration of the CCP’s pursuit of “truth, goodness and beauty” in stylized Baybayin over the clouds on the facade. It will combine traditional arts with the magic of modern technology interacting with promenaders, offering pure enjoyment of the nightly spectacle.
Sinag: A Festival of Radiance showcases the CCP’s fifty years of excellence in the field of performing, literary, visual and multi media arts and its continuing partnership with its regional network.
For more information, call the CCP through Renee Manay at 832-1125 local 1424.
