the jagged barn

FROM CHINA TO CHOPIN, Ang Li Live in Manila

2013-03-19T08:52:00.002-04:00

Fall in love with great music this summer..

MANILA, Philippines--Ranked among the top 30 pianists in the world by the 2009 Cliburn Competition and has toured some of the most prestigious performing arts venues around the globe, acclaimed pianist Ang Li performs two shows exclusively at the PETA Theater Center this March 20.

"From China to Chopin, Ang Li Live in Manila" will make the audience fall in love with the music of Chopin, Liszt, as well as Chinese folk songs adapted for solo piano at 8:00pm.

Ang Li will also perform "Classical Music for Young People," which will feature the most-loved works of Mozart, Tchaikovsky and Chopin. This will be coupled with interactive discussions to guide and engage the audience on these classical pieces. This performance starts at 2:00pm.

Through the afternoon show, younger audiences have the chance to gain exposure and interest in a genre of music that is rarely heard today.

A rising star in the classical music, Ang Li is a young pianist known for her audience appeal and breathtaking talent that inspires audiences of all ages to develop a taste for classical music.

Ang Li has toured all five continents and has performed in renowned venues such as the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York and the National Center for the Performing Arts in China. The young piano prodigy makes her only performance in country at the PETA Theater Center, the home of a pioneering theater company-the Philippine Educational Theater Association.

For tickets and inquiries, contact PETA through 725-6244 loc.12, 0917-5765400, or petatheater@gmail.com. Tickets are also available through Ticketworld (891-9999, www.ticketworld.com.ph).

*PRESS RELEASE*

PETA's D' Wonder Twins of Boac

2013-02-23T14:23:00.000-05:00

Shakespeare's Twelfth Night on a 1967 Philippine setting is brought to life on an arena stage by PETA.

"D' Wonder Twins of Boac" is a Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) production wherein once again we are treated with a unique experience of theater as we continue to understand that there is indeed no bigger screen than the stage. Maribel Legarda, the director, defied all boundaries by giving life to this production on an arena set-up. Yes, we marvelled in this story in all angles!

"D' Wonder Twins of Boac," written by Rody Vera, is set during the late 1960's surrounded by the then glitz and glamour of Philippine Cinema and as the glitters start to fade, the story starts to glimmer and ends on a light we can only decide what. This is a "Twelfth Night" adaptation that we should all experience. It reminds us of the glory of the past and hopefully gives us something to think about as we face the future.

"Twelfth Night" is close to my heart since this was the play assigned to us during my Stella Adler class back in 2011. Thus, I know the story and irks and quirks of the lines, just how Shakespeare played with words on this one. It's amazing how Vera managed to keep them but is still apt in the new setting he conjured.

I studied the role of Viola back then, thus, I was more than curious to see how Cris Villonco, who is almost always playing the role of the most feminine lead character of the production, will bring a girl-pretending-to-be-a-boy to life. And I think she nailed it. She was able to bring out the correct amount of masculinity and we can see the struggle of being herself (Viola) and being Cesar at the same time.

As I write this, I have already seen this production twice: during the Press Night last January 31 and with friends last February 16, 10:00 AM show. Not much difference in the set of cast, though. Although, I realized how difficult it is to absorb a play while taking pictures. That's why it's always ideal to see it before taking them. Also, that's why I was hesitant in doing this write-up before seeing it again without a camera on hand. So, most, if not all, of what I write now is based on the February 16 show.

I fell in love with three members of the cast:

Riki Benedicto played the role of Antonio and he was the perfect blend of Antonio that the role required. He is the main reason why my favorite song number was "Awit ng Mga Stuntman."

Gie Onida was very natural. It was like he is Toma in real life. He did not overdo the drunkenness of the character. He was able to define the line of intoxication and sense.

Malvolio is my favorite character in Twelfth Night. That's why I did not miss seing "I, Malvolio" last year. Gino Ramirez was amazing! He embodied what made me fell in love with Malvolio in the first place. He was able to play Malvolio right, that his last words would have that effect on you as much as Shakespeare would want it.

Shamaine Buencamino was superb beyond expectation. Chrome Cosio has the best reactions. Lex Marcos was as usual. This is the best I've seen of Eric dela Cruz. Roi Calilong, Pat Liwanag and those who played Juvy were okay. And Philip Lazaro did well as a first timer.

And some may say I'm saying this because we're friends, but Kiki Baento was fabulous in this production. Well, I do love the role of Maria too and she was able to stage it fabulously.

It really is a challenge to act on an arena stage. You would need to make every inch of you act. Yes, even your behind. That's why I applaud the direction and the whole cast for making every inch of the theater, experience this wonderful story. I was able to see it at the VIP area the first time (where I took the pictures) and saw it again on the opposite side (where the stage usually is), and I would recommend either side, well, all sides would be good actually. Although, you need to enter the leftmost door to the theater if you want to be seated on where the stage usually is.

The live band was the cherry on top of this delectable dose of art. Sitting beside the band made us appreciate the singing more despite the proximity. The voices were not drowned by the live music. It was a perfect blend for me.

One of the things I loved about this production is the ending. Don't worry, I won't spoil it for everyone, because I want this to be something you experience on your own. This is where Rody Vera steps away from Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. And you will look at this production on a totally new light.

As February 2013 slips away, don't let it end without celebrating the National Arts Month. And the best way is to go inside the theater and experience the wonderful world of Philippine Theater. D' Wonder Twins of Boac is something you should not miss!

Click this link to get your tickets now!

Remaining shows:
Feb 24, 10AM and 3PM;
March 1, 3PM and 8PM;
March 2, 3PM and 8PM and
March 3, 10AM and 3PM.

More photos here.

Katy: The Musical

2013-01-21T05:35:00.000-05:00

Aching for superb singing and live performances?

It has been quite a hiatus due to the demise of my old laptop, however, God has blessed me with a new MacBook Pro and what a way to start this year's series of blog posts with a very wonderful musical production, "Katy."

"Katy: The Musical" is a production of Spotlight Artist Centre and is being staged in the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Little Theater. I was able to see their 8:00 PM run last January 20, 2013.

It was actually quite daunting to be able to get good seats and purchase tickets from Ticket World, but it was all worth it.

Isay Alvarez and Dulce are enough names to make me look forward to see this show. Of course, the story of "Katy" did seal the deal. It is about how the stage and performing became Katy dela Cruz's dream, love and life. The musical highlights her earliest performances in fiestas and cockpits and started with Teatro Lux and as she moved to Grand Opera House and to San Francisco, USA.

The musical numbers are grand and amazing, however, what is more important are the stories behind the stage: her relationships, with her dad and husband, her friends and rivals and the important turn of the century in Philippine history and culture.

The house music would definitely set the mood and and start your travel back in time to Katy's era, but nothing prepared me for the amazing blending of voice and music during the Overture. That alone, didn't stop my hands from coming together in an applause, even if the curtains are closed and there's really nothing happening on stage. It is sure the best way to set myself to be entertained. And I definitely was not disappointed.

click here for more...

A Very Personal Take On PETA's BONA

2012-09-01T17:47:00.000-04:00

As I have mentioned on my previous post, "Bona" has a very different connotation for us. We have applied it not only on a fan's admiration but more for the fanaticism brought by unrequited love. The Philippine Educational Theater Association's (PETA) staging of BONA if not contributed, formed the wholeness of being BONA.. (ang pagiging Bona).

With the modern setting, it is very easy to relate to today's Bona (played by Ms. Eugene Domingo). She's a call center agent who spends her day time on other jobs to be able to support her sister's children instead of sleeping. And like most Filipinos today, she started to admire a contestant of a talent search, Gino Sanchez (played by Edgar Allan Guzman).

More Photos by Tin from the Press Preview Run Here

We all started in small admiration. Until we totally get hooked. Like a young moth to the fire. It has been said that you can give without loving, but never love without giving. Eventually, the warmth of the fire is too hard to resist, too hard to miss and most of the time, you'll just find yourself, giving too much. Giving your all.

Bona has reached this point. She resigned from her job, turned away from her family and friends and even forgot herself, just to cater to the needs and wants of a boy who dreams of becoming a famous actor. Her only retribution was his happiness. His sweet butterfly kisses and ice-melting stares continued to haze her vision of the state she was already in.

I know I have been.. and I have a dear friend who has been.. Bona. Opo, naging Bona na rin po ako. And I thank God that we have never been, and I pray never will be, in the same spot as Bona and Baldy, Bona's best friend, after Bona tried to sell some of her stuff to Baldy.

Phil Noble was amazing when he played the part of Baldy. He was well loved in the first act, and more so in Act 2. I felt how much he wants to shake Bona to wake her up from her daydream and how much he mourns for her oblivion. I would not want to be in his shoes, nor would I want my friends to be in too. I'd like to wake up, and I hope my friends do too.

Then, my heart gets crushed a little bit more when Binky, Bona's sister brings the news about Bingo, Binky's son.

Shé Maala played the role of Binky and was superb! She was able portray a mother thinking about her son and not someone who was just asking for money. She was longing for her older sister's care and support and when she found none, Shé showed a strong and determined Binky that if this wouldn't stir you up, nothing will.

These actors and scenes are essential in boiling the emotions inside Bona and Eugene Domingo. Thus, when she finally woke up from her daydream, we all bathe in blistering pots of raw talent.

We are fortunate enough to have shared this experience with the original Bona, Ms. Nora Aunor. Yes, we were so lucky to be in the same audience. It would not be a lie to say that this boosted the casts' energy during this run. Even, Uge (Eugene Domingo) was unable to finish the curtain call without breaking down.

Edgar Allan Guzman, Ricky Lee, Chanda Romero, Ms. Nora Aunor, Ms. Eugene Domingo, Phil Noble, Gabs Santos

During the press con, Uge has been very vocal about her fear of being compared and would only want Ate Guy to be entertained this time. It is such an honor to witness the affirmation from the Super Star herself. If I was swelling with emotions due to this momentous event, I know it's nothing compared to what Uge was feeling. I could only imagine, and I'm already welling up and my goosebumps don't want to calm down.

Congratulations to the cast and staff of the whole Bona production! This production screams that indeed, there is "No Screen Bigger than Theater!" PETA's 45th Theater Season Rationale

If you haven't experienced Bona yet, see here for show dates and if you have, see it again, now that Uge is more inspired than ever!

PETA's BONA Show Schedules and Contact Info

2012-08-24T05:36:00.000-04:00

Lifted from PETAtheater.com

Choose Performance Schedule for “BONA”
Date	3:00 PM	8:00 PM
August 24, 2012	No Available Show	Contact Yasmin at +639053169652
August 25, 2012	Tickets available at TicketWorld: (02) 891-9999 www.ticketworld.com.ph	Tickets available at TicketWorld: (02) 891-9999 www.ticketworld.com.ph
August 26, 2012	Tickets available at TicketWorld: (02) 891-9999 www.ticketworld.com.ph	Contact (Globe) +639175816288; (Smart) +639198713338; (Sun) +639228786884 or email: rogerlimadelta888@yahoo.com facebook/twitter: rams_david
August 31, 2012	No Available Show	Contact: +639293559795; +639054073254
September 01, 2012	Contact Alem at (Globe) +639178110217; (Sun) +639228992536; (Landline) (02) 9645456 ang.alem@gmail.com	Contact Alem at (Globe) +639178110217; (Sun) +639228992536; (Landline) (02) 9645456 ang.alem@gmail.com
September 02, 2012	Tickets available at TicketWorld: (02) 891-9999 www.ticketworld.com.ph	Contact Leeyhan at +639175883496
September 07, 2012	No Available Show	Contact Fred Fama at +639175303733
September 08, 2012	Tickets available at TicketWorld: (02) 891-9999 www.ticketworld.com.ph	Tickets available at TicketWorld: (02) 891-9999 www.ticketworld.com.ph
September 09, 2012	+639178608796TicketWorld: (02) 891-9999 www.ticketworld.com.ph	Contact +639175263743
September 14, 2012	No Available Show	Contact (Globe) +639175816288; (Smart) +639198713338; (Sun) +639228786884 or email: rogerlimadelta888@yahoo.com facebook/twitter: rams_david
September 15, 2012	Contact +639178663811	Contact (Globe) +639175816288; (Smart) +639198713338; (Sun) +639228786884 or email: rogerlimadelta888@yahoo.com facebook/twitter: rams_david
September 16, 2012	Contact +639188890888, (632) 6246826, +639175292008, +639175374012, miaflorencio@yahoo.com	Andrie Bañaga - +639175263743 Lee Cruz - +639178170079 Vince Pilien - +639175688469
September 21, 2012	No Available Show	Contact (Globe) +639175183654; +63917-8007969; (Sun) +639327925728 or email: bonaticketsforsept218pm@gmail.com
September 22, 2012	Contact RC: +639228885348; Jayme: +639272022017; Onay: +09179080565 or visit watchplays.blogspot.com	Contact Bel: +639156216512; Mel: +639178526781 or visit www.showsinmanila.tk
September 23, 2012	Contact Bel: +639156216512; Mel: +639178526781 or visit www.showsinmanila.tk	Contact Noel at +639178390768

Have You Ever Been BONA?

2012-08-16T06:26:00.001-04:00

When we first heard that the Philippine Educational Theater Association's (PETA) plan of staging the 1980 Lino Brocka movie, "Bona", my friends had a copy of the film and revelled in its story and the superb acting of Nora Aunor. We then redefined "Bona" as the state of being like the character Bona in the film. Not limited to the admiration of a fan to a celebrity, we related it more to the state of being so in love that we push the limits to the extreme however unrequited the love could be. Similarly, just like Bona. This is why during the Bona (The Play) Press Conference at the PETA Theater Center last August 14, I couldn't help but ask Eugene Domingo, who will play the role Bona and the director Soxie Topacio, if they have ever been Bona in their lives. Na-Bona na po ba kayo?

I was unable to see the movie before the press conference. Aside from the stories of my friends that have seen the film and a couple of scenes available in YouTube, I don't have in depth knowledge of the movie. It tells the story of Bona, a fan of a stunt man, Gardo, that went to the extremes by serving the man. Up to the point that she was literally like a slave, but wasn't hired and doesn't get paid.

PETA's adaptation of this film explores the plot and staged it on a modern day setting. Bona, in this stage production is a call center agent that adores Gino, played by Edgar Allan Guzman, who is a contestant of a talent search in channel 72, "Star of Tomorrow." Incorporated with the elements of today, like Facebook, Twitter, and a whole lot more that were definitely unavailable 32 years ago, make the staging of Bona relatively different from the film.

As Eugene Domingo pleads, let us not compare her with the Superstar. Being able to preview 2 scenes from the play, it is but apt not to make comparisons. Circumstances are only simillar, but the Bona of 1980 is definitely not the Bona of 2012. Now, the fans of the film should definitely not be disheartened, because I believe that the whole essence of the film is captured in the entirety of this production. Direk Soxie Topacio explained that your favorite scenes in the movie will not be staged in the same exact manner as you have seen in the big screen, but it would be staged in circumstances that would apply to modern times. Layeta Bucoy, writer, teases our imagination when she said there will be no boiling water spilled over the stage, but the intensity of that scene would be interpreted in a manner that it was as if boiling water is being heavily poured.

Expectations are definitely high, but proper perspective should be set. I was able to see the movie after the day of the Press Con. The play would definitely be different, and for me, this makes me more excited to see the show! There definitely is no screen bigger than theater!

This is something that you definitely shouldn't miss. So, check this for screening dates and times and contact information. See you at the theater! Opens August 24, 2012

And in case you're curious about their response to my question, Ms. Domingo said no, not yet, so far.. and Direk answered, a resounding yes, and still is.. Weee! *kilig*

Photos by Tin. For more photos, click here.

PETA's BONA Press Conference

My Jagged Take on VLF8

2012-07-14T02:22:00.001-04:00

Last June 27 to July 8, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, together with the Writer's Bloc Inc. and Tanghalang Pilipino staged the "untried, untested and unstaged plays" for the 8th time. The Virgin Lab Fest 8 also pays homage to Mario O'Hara and Tony Espejo.

I'm so glad that I'm able to join this year's festivities, unlike last year, when I totally missed the whole event. Two years ago, VLF 6, I reviewed all the sets and plays I've seen, however, this year, I'll keep it simple and concise by naming my favorites and not so favorites.

Plays in Set E: Revisited are no longer considered here. However, I must say, I'm so glad that I was still able to see them. Also, I missed seeing "Ang Unang Regla ni John", so, they're not considered here as well. Thank God they are included in next year's Revisited Set!

My Favorite VLF8 Actors: Jelson Bay in Symposium (Set A); Dante Balois in Pagsubli (Set A); Bong Cabrera in Alejandro (Set C); Alon Severino in Totong Hilot (Set D)

My Not So Favorite VLF8 Actor: Franco Laurel in Isa Pang Soap Opera (Set B); Ralph Mateo in Alejandro (Set C)

My Favorite VLF8 Actresses: Ness Roque in Digital Divide (Set A); Sherry Lara in Isa Pang Soap Opera (Set B)

My Not So Favorite VLF8 Directors: Andoy Ranay for Digital Divide (Set A)

My Favorite VLF8 Directors: JK Anicoche for Symposium (Set A); Melvin Lee for Pagsubli (Set A)

My Not So Favorite VLF8 Playwrights: Dingdong Novenario for Digital Divide (Set A)

My Favorite VLF8 Playwrights: U Eliserio and Maynard Manansala for Symposium (Set A); Reuel Molina Aguila for Isa Pang Soap Opera (Set B); Mar Anthony Dela Cruz for Hayop (Set B); Mixkaela Villalon for High Stakes (Set C)

My Super Favorite of All in Virgin Lab Fest 8 is Set C's Mga Kuneho! I love all the actors: Chrome Cosio, Marco Viana, Paul Jake Paule, Fitz Edward Bitana and Anthony Falcon. I love the director, Emmanuel dela Cruz and of course, the playwright, Guelan Luarca. Very much deserved to be revisited next year!

I sure hope you were able to see the VLF8 plays and let me know your favorites and not so favorites in the comments! Otherwise, I wish that we can all be able to join the festivities next year for the the 9th round of virgins!

My Bag Diet Cheat Day

2012-06-12T08:06:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks back, I needed some retail therapy, however I was determined to stick to my bag diet. But passing up a 50% off sale made me give in and declare it to be my bag cheat day!

Actually, it's supposed to be a reward since I stuck to the diet for more than 6 months already.

But before all that, I only planned on getting shoes. I got these pairs.

As you can see in this previous post, I have wished for this pair and I ended up getting a different color. Time to get a wish granted. (from Centropelle)

I have wanted to get a pair of oxford shoes for quite some time. I wanted to accept the challenge of being able to style them. Let's see where my simple fashion sense will take me with these. (from Shoebox)

And then, SM Department Store had their bags on sale for 50% off. I have set some rules before I totally gave in. It needs to be less than 500 Php and I wanted to get a quilted shoulder bag. And viola! After a couple of racks I spotted this and fell in love! And I almost went weak on the knees when I saw the reduced price at 400 Php! Woohoo! (Belladonna)

I was a happy shopper indeed. Retail therapy really was therapeutic for me that day.

What's your latest steal? Let me know in the comments!

#MQAM Tony's Inspired

2012-06-10T22:38:00.000-04:00

Here are FOUR QUESTIONS that I will answer and then I have the option to add a fifth question of my own for those who are visiting me to answer in the comment section, along with commenting on the four standard questions I answered!

And for this week's questions and my answers:

1. Finish this sentence - I had a great....

WEEKEND! A very impulsive and spontaneous weekend! Gotta do it again.. Going to the beach is always a good thing.

2. What is your favorite kind of soda pop?

Coke.

3. What is your weather like today?

My toy says it's 29 degrees outside..

4. What is your favorite workout song?

I don't workout regulary, but whenever I do go out to run, I love start with Katy Perry's "Firework".

and for my 5th question! Please answer in the comments:

In line with the Tony Awards, what is your favorite musical of all time?

Mine would be RENT! I have yet to see more musicals for this to change. I love the songs, the plot and all about it. I have yet to see it with the Broadway cast, but even if I haven't yet, I'm still in love with it.

Don't forget to let me know what's yours in the comments! Happy Monday!

#MQAM My First

2012-06-03T19:40:00.002-04:00

This would by first time to participate and hopefully, I'll be able to do so every week!

Here are FOUR QUESTIONS that I will answer and then I have the option to add a fifth question of my own for those who are visiting me to answer in the comment section, along with commenting on the four standard questions I answered!

And for this week's questions and my answers:

1. Finish this sentence - The first thing I do in the morning is...

drink water.. I'm usually parched when I wake up, and I'm generally "always thirsty". I'm not sure if that means that there's something wrong with me, but most comments usually include "that's good" somewhere along the line.

2. What is your favorite kind of pie?

Tuna Pie and Apple Pie.. being a fast food junkie, these are the ones I love.. However, I'm still open to having a new favorite/s.

3. Do you have pets?

No. I have asthma and having a pet is not that much of a good idea. I do want to have a pug someday.. hopefully.

4. What is your favorite chair in your house?

I don't really have one since I most of the time sit on dining chairs here. Unless, you count our sofa bed, which is one bed mode 90% of the time.

and for my 5th question! Please answer in the comments:

What game are you addicted to right now?

I'm currently addicted to playing "Smurf's Village" and "My Monster Pet Shop" in my toy (iPod Touch) and "Monopoly Deal" playing cards with my friends.

Don't forget to let me know what's yours in the comments! Happy Monday!

What I Wore to a Beatles Wedding

2012-06-02T18:47:00.002-04:00

Last month I attended a Beatles Themed wedding. And this is what I graced the occasion with:

Traditional people would not approve me wearing black, but I say, I'd rather wear black than wear white. That would be rude! I won't pretend that it didn't get me at the edge of my seat, but it was such a relief when I saw that I wasn't the only one! Whew!

Aside from the Beatles theme, the wedding's color theme was black and pink. Since I recently went to a wedding wearing pink, with practically the same group of people, I chose black.

I also didn't want to buy a new dress. I'd rather have a new pair of shoes! Ha!

I accessorized with bangles, a charm bracelet watch, pearls and a pair of stud earrings that had the similar theme with the cloth of my shoes. I did the Boho Braid for my hair.

It was a day to have fun and a good time with good friends I haven't seen for quite some time.

Congratulations to Mae (Aemerson) and Aida and best wishes! Having a Beatles themed wedding is the coolest!

What do think of what I wore? I'm making the most of the little fashion sense that I have, so, your tips will be highly appreciated! Let me know in your comments!

Pics by Tin

My ZALORA Wishlist

2012-05-15T04:38:00.000-04:00

Even if I find it difficult to shop for things that would need fitting online, I can't help but covet these great shoe finds on Zalora.

Generally, I love shopping. It's my favorite sport. (Ha!) However, I do have hesitations in terms of shopping for shoes and clothes online due to the absence of being able to do some "fitting". With Zalora at my fingertips, I'm kind of having second thoughts.

I'm currently on a bag diet, so, I veered myself away from the accessories section. I also still have major issues in terms of buying clothes online since I don't have any confidence in terms of the size that would fit me. And that leaves me a to another haven: SHOES!

I'm gaining confidence in my shoe size, which aids in making me click on that button and go shoe shopping online. So, here's my wishlist and why I should just have to have them! (in no particular order)

1. Wade's Plain Platform Pumps in Gray - I gotta have this pair since sadly, as much as I hate to admit and be a disgrace to the family, I don't own a pair of platform pumps yet. And it's high time to get one. Also, I trust the brand and this design is such a classic.

2. Centropelle's Casual Boots in Black - summer can be declared over and I already need a pair. My last pair of boots are already broken and is beyond repair, so, it's time to have a new one, and my eyes are set on this one. Classic design, but still chic, and I'll be able to pair this with a lot of my clothes.

3. Wade's Peep Toe Stilettos in White - I love the detail in this shoe and I could wear this with a dress or even my jeans! My feet will look lovely in this, so, this gotta be mine!

4. Centropelle's Casual Step-In - I love flip-flops! I have about 5 pairs. However as much as I love them, there are days wherein wearing flip-flops are too casual. The perfect solution would be this pair of sandals. The tear drop diagonal strap will keep my feet from looking too wide. I can keep being casual and still have a hint or two of being sophisticated.

5. Native's Hot Sauce Red Jefferson Shoes - when I first spotted this in the mall, I silently screamed "I want one!" and believe it or not, it got me inspired. Creative juices started to flow! I can't wait to get my hands on this pair and explore the creative possibilities of all those holes! Of course, the cool design on its own is already a steal and the comfort that it would provide. No one can tell what I will come up with after this gets delivered to my doorstep.

I'm wishing on that Zalora star tonight to get these fabulous finds! Fingers crossed!

What do you think? Have a good day everyone!

All images are from ZALORA.com.ph

NOTD: L.A. Colors Summertime

2012-05-13T01:27:00.001-04:00

I always have my nails done at the Interlook Salon located at Unit D Cortez Building, 265 Tomas Morato, Quezon City, Metro Manila. You can give them a call at +63(2)3724264.

What do you think about my new nail-do? Any suggestions for my next NOTD? Let me know in your comments!

Art-Filled February

2012-03-11T19:57:00.000-04:00

I'm disappointed that I was unable to blog for the past month. I really need to work on my time management skills, especially in attributing time for blogging.

February as I know is the "Art Month" and I have seen a lot of plays and productions in the past month or so! I guess I was also overwhelmed that before I was able to make time to blog about one, I'm about to see another. And so on.

I have 11 on the list and I'll be doing mini-reviews as much as I can, or rather as short. Let's just do this in chronological order as I've seen them:

click here for more...

Hantu: A Movie by Joey Paras

2012-01-30T15:40:00.005-05:00

I enjoy watching horror films. I was brought up watching a lot of them. This however did not remove my fear of scary things, I even have a weird phobia, which I guess was brought by watching a certain horror movie, but I still have this appreciation for this genre. I haven't seen much horror films lately because my closest friends are not really into them. That's why it was so nice to be able to see a good one last Sunday.

One of the factors that I enjoy in watching horror films is the twist and turns of the movie. Good ones always have a conflict or a plot that would need a lot of figuring out or mind games. I was able to see one in the special premiere screening of "Hantu" by Joey Paras. Having the element of supernatural beings or ghosts defy common logic, thus gives a lot possibilities and theories that really makes me think.

click here for more...

Jagged Digital Scrapbooking

2012-01-27T18:31:00.000-05:00

Since I was a little girl, I have been fascinated with making scrap books. That's why I used to have a lot of keepsakes because I was thinking that this is a good thing to put in my scrapbook. I also love looking at the stuff in the scrap book section in book stores, although, haven't really bought anything yet from that part of the store. I had an attempt when I was in high school, but I don't consider it much to be successful.

Then, came the digital age! Although, I don't trust my artistic side that much, so, I have been putting it aside and besides, I really don't know where or how to start.

And out of the blue, without any expectation, I won a Digital Scrapbooking Giveaway! It's my first time to actually win a giveaway here in the blogosphere! And it's perfect! What better way to start digital scrapbooking than with free stuff!

I of course used my winnings in purchasing the software and some pre-set packages for me to have a guide.

One thing that I totally appreciate in digital scrapbooking compared to the traditional way is the very huge room for error. I wasn't afraid to put in elements, since, if I end up not liking it, it would be easy to delete it. As opposed to using glue, once I put elements on and it ends up looking horrible, I would be dismayed with the whole thing. There's no turning back. I'm so grateful with the undo function!

So, here's my first attempt on digital scrapbooking. Let me know what you think! And since I'm very new at this, tips and techniques are very much welcome too. Comment away!

Digital Scrapbooking Images from My Memories Suite.

A First: William Shakespeare's King Lear in Filipino

2012-01-07T00:16:00.000-05:00

(PETA Press Release)

MANILA, Philippines – William Shakespeare is regarded as the greatest global dramatist ever. His works has prompted so many adaptations and retellings and has been articulated in many different forms and languages. However, we Filipinos have never seen one of his greatest plays, King Lear, done in graceful liquid Tagalog prose – until now.

After the back-to-back success of Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) Shakespeare rap musical ‘William’ and its box office comedy-drama ‘Care Divas’, PETA opens 2012 with another brave opus: the first-ever Filipino adaptation of William Shakespeare’s evocative masterpiece, King Lear.

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Rub Ribs & BBQ

2012-01-04T22:06:00.001-05:00

I'm such a meat eater. If normal people would easily get full in eating at meat buffet's I guess, I'm just not that normal. Although, I don't really eat much rice with it.

So, when we decided to have lunch out at we wanted to try out Rub Ribs & BBQ in Tomas Morato, I was just excited!

They have good Baby Back Ribs and it's easy on the pocket! Their Super Duo is already good for 2 or even 3 and it's only for Php 350.00. And it really tastes so good. It was easy to take the bones out.

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White Elephant Gift Exchange

2012-01-03T23:14:00.001-05:00

In most of the exchange gifts or Holiday parties I have attended during the last Holiday season (2011), instead of the usual picking of the name in advanced and thinking of a gift for that person or getting the gift on his or her wish list, we had the white elephant exchange gift instead.

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The Jagged Barn Looks Forward to a Jaggier 2012

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

2011 was such a challenge for The Jagged Barn. After about 10 months of hiatus, I was not sure how to bring readers back, generate new followers and reconnect with the blogosphere once more.

The main reason The Jagged Barn’s stats went down is because I did not post for almost a year. Thank God for the Blogger App being available in the App Store and it’s free! Thus, it inspired me to continue blogging.

It was already during the last quarter of 2011 when the fire was ignited to blog again. I guess that was better than not going back at all. At least, it was before my blog’s second anniversary and I have blogging friends once more to celebrate with me.

I also started doing a couple of blog meme’s to connect with others more, like Nail of the Day, Wordless and Watery Wednesdays.

It was also nice to blog again about stuff I love like theater, food, shopping and travel. It was also cool that it was my first time to blog about a concert and be a sponsor of a blog giveaway!

Even if 2011 was already 75% over before I came back from a long silence, it was still eventful for me and makes me look forward to 2012! I guess, it never is too late to start again, as long as you take that step and start.

Let us not forget the lessons of 2011 as we face 2012 a little bit wiser and a little bit jaggier.

My 2011 Books

2012-01-01T01:34:00.001-05:00

A big chunk of my 2011 was spent in reading books. Mostly books that are part of a series.

2011 is also the year that I was able to finish reading ebooks! I am still a fan of real books as you can see. However, 3 out of the 11 books I have finished reading in 2011 were ebooks and 1 was borrowed, thus, they are not in the photo above.

The best book I finished last 2011 is "The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larson and a very close second is "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins.

The best series I finished last 2011 is "The Hunger Games Series" by Suzanne Collins. I haven't finished "The Millenium" series yet.

For 2012, I'm looking forward to read "The Series of the Immortal Nicholas Flammel". I already have the first five books on hand! I'm not sure if I'll be able to finish all on or before the end of 2012.

Of course, I'm looking forward to read the last installment of "The Millenium" Series by Stieg Larson.

So, what's your pick for the best book you've read last 2011? What are you looking forward to in 2012? Let me know in your comments!

Japanese Food Fave in Ariake

2011-12-18T19:42:00.001-05:00

Tin and I love eating Japanese food. Although, I still don't eat raw fish, all other Japanese food is fine by me. So, whenever we want to enjoy Japanese cuisine, we go to Ariake at 284 Tomas Morato corner Scout Rallos, Quezon City (Tomas Morato).

Tin's favorite is a plate of Salmon Sashimi. She says that this is the best serving and freshness she had on a budget.

My favorite would be a delectable plate of Oyster Baked! I can't get enough of it. It's so tasty but not fishy. One shell seems to have two oysters with lots of cheese! I squint some lemon before I dive in. This is my favorite dish here and would always order for a plate.

On days wherein we are on a tight budget and we really want to treat ourselves. We will just order for these and we'll be good. It will be just a little over Php 500 and we'll both be so full.

What's your favorite food? Let me know in your comments!

Bee's First Giveaway!

2011-12-14T22:04:00.000-05:00

Get the chance to win these awesome goodies! Click on the image below for more details! Hurry! Contest is until December 25, 12:00 PM; open to everyone from the Philippines!

From L-R: 50ml Human Nature All Natural Spray sanitizer, Human Nature Natural Strengthening
Shampoo, Human Nature Moisturizing Conditioner with Ellana Oatmeal Soap, Ellana Mineral-Tinted
Lip gloss in Taffy, Human Nature Tinted Lip Balm in Pink Orchid & Human Nature Lip Balm in Peppermint

Wordless Wednesday 010: Ol' St. Nick

2011-12-13T14:41:00.001-05:00

NOTD: OPI Bling Dynasty

2011-12-12T14:05:00.001-05:00