Tagalog Play "Buong/Buo" Stages in The Brick Theater in New York

Photo courtesy of Philstar

A Filipino-led performance, "Buong/Buo," will return to The Brick Theater in Brooklyn, New York, next month. Scheduled for April 8 and April 10, the production features playwright Kenneth Keng and dancer Misha Bernas, exploring collaboration despite physical distances. It is part of The Brick Theater’s "?!: (Interrobang) New Works 2026" festival.

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"Buong/Buo" builds on the earlier "Buong-Buo" performances and welcomes both live and virtual participants. Keng and co-deviser Carlos Lising will perform on stage, while Red Concepcion and Danilo Zepeda will contribute remotely. The performance is fully in Tagalog, with cultural references shaping audience interactions.

Keng mentioned that the latest iteration resulted from finding ways to perform in New York amidst physical separation. He emphasized that although the team is geographically apart, their community and spirits remain united. Audience feedback has described the piece as "joyful, then deeply unsettling."

Misha Bernas, an award-winning dancer, joins Keng and Lising onstage, introducing dance and movement practices. She expressed pride in showcasing Filipino culture and connecting with diverse audiences. Bernas highlighted the positive reception and cultural exchange fostered by the Tagalog language on stage.

The Brick Theater, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is noted for experimental performances. Tickets for "Buong/Buo" are available via the theater’s festival page for its April shows. This staging promises an engaging exploration of Filipino identity and remote collaboration.

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