The journey towards equality, inclusivity, and acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community is a continuous and enduring one.

And for artists and creatives, their way to push for progress is through ways they know best – such as the twin bill of plays Unica Hijas and Laro.

Barefoot Theater Collective, the theater company behind the recent successful run of Mula sa Buwan in 2022, shines the spotlight on LGBTQIA+ narratives with Pride Plays for their second season this June for Pride Month.

Mikaela Regis’ Unica Hijas follows the story of two girls who are called into the principal’s office after they were caught by a nun in an almost-kiss. With less than an hour left until their future is decided, the two are forced to confront each other, their past, present, and their own selves. The play will feature Ash Nicanor as Mitch and Joy Delos Santos as Nikki, and will be directed by award-winning director Pat Valera.

Another play to be produced alongside Unica Hija’s is Laro, written by acclaimed writer and director Floy Quintos and directed by John Mark Yap. This will revolve on stories about how gay relationships are examined through a merry-go-round of love, desire, and lust. Ten characters through ten vignettes spin and turn as truths and pains are revealed. It is a reimagination of Arthur Schnitzler’s LA RONDE, now set in Manila.

“Laro” will feature Phi Palmos, Gio Gahol, Jojo Cayabyab, Al Gatmaitan, Mike Liwag, Ross Pesigan, Noel Escondo, Andre Miguel, Shaun Ocrisma, Jeremy Majores, Lawrence Miranda, Nathan Molina, DM Lee, and Andre Cruz. Pride Plays will run every weekend from June 10 to 25 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight, Circuit Makati.  Get your tickets now through Ticket2Me.

About the Author

Apple Gamboa is the Life Editor of SubSelfie.com.

She is also the Creative Team Lead of Maya, the leading digital financial services provider in the country.

She was previously a Media Relations Manager for Ogilvy Philippines and an interview and field producer for GMA News programs Quick Response Team and News to Go. She was also a producer of lifestyle TV shows and documentaries. Travelling and music are her passion, and taking risks is her reality medicine. Journalism 2010, UST. Read more of her articles here.