‘An Enemy of the People’ Adaptation to be Staged this April

After restaging its production of Othello, CAST PH returns with Artistic Director Nelsito Gomez’s newest adaptation, In the Eyes of the People, adapted from Henrik Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People.

Set in the quaint town of Santa Cristina in the Visayas, preparations are underway for the grand opening of the Santa Cristina Hot Springs, led by Mayor Peter and his sister Tricia, the project’s Chief Scientist. Just two weeks before the highly anticipated event, an unknown bacteria is discovered, throwing the project into jeopardy. In The Eyes Of The People is a new play that explores the collision of science and politics, prompting questions about morality and the sacrifices we make for profit.

A staged reading of the adaptation was previously performed by CAST PH on January 26. This full staging will now be a co-production of two of Manila’s fringe theater groups: Company Of Actors In Streamlined Theatre (CAST) and Mad Child Productions.

The cast features Jenny Jamora as Tricia Lopez-Ramos, Ron Capinding as Peter Lopez, Nor Domingo as Alvin Ramos, Jam Binay as Pauline Ramos, Zöe De Ocampo as Enzo Santiago, and Katski Flores as Ruby Ganpon.

Gomez shares, “I’ve always had my eye on adapting Enemy, being a fan of its uncompromising truths about humanity. Reshaping it into a loving but privileged Filipino family, and exploring the issues of the original through a modern lens has been a four-year journey of trial and error. But through my wonderful collaborations with this amazing cast and excellent dramaturge —with the invaluable trust and support from our wonderful partners in Mad Child— this nearly hundred and fifty year old Norwegian play will (hopefully) resonate strongly with a Filipino audience of today.”

In The Eyes Of The People also marks Jenny Jamora’s return to the acting stage since 2019. After directing a slate of productions (Pingkian: Isang Musikal, Every Brilliant Thing, Tiny Beautiful Things) over the past few years, Jamora says, “I have to remind myself that, after the preparation, I need to enjoy the unpredictability of the next step–very different from directing where you need to put down strategies to reach a goal. So I’m just going to enjoy this brief moment in time where I can leap before I look again.”

All performances will be held at The Mirror Theatre Studio, 5th floor, SJG building, 8463 Kalayaan Ave, Makati, 1209 Metro Manila.

This intimate staging allows for an audience of only 80 per show. This is a free seating, first come first served event. PHP 1000 per seat.

Tickets for April 26 and April 27 are now available through the group’s Google Form. Showtimes are at 3 PM and 8 PM.