Within the bustling walls of Mindanao State University-General Santos City, the luxury of owning a space holds profound significance for its constituents. Whether it's a quiet corner in the Laktanan or a cozy nook under the trees—space provides individuals with a sense of solace, freedom, and identity. It serves as a canvas for personal expression, a sanctuary for introspection, and a platform for social interaction. As we celebrate World Theatre Day this 27th day of March 2024, let this be the moment to ruminate on how a mere space can bridge the gap between community, culture, and art.
Theatre groups play a vital role as a space that bridges the gap between culture, community, and art at Mindanao State University-General Santos City. Upholding the Mission and Vision of the institution, various theatre groups incorporate diverse cultures of the people studying and living in the locality through their performances. They showcase the rich diversity of Mindanao's cultural heritage while also exploring contemporary themes and issues. Serving as ambassadors of culture, they use their craft to educate, inspire, and provoke thought among audiences. Whether it's the Official Performing Art Group of the university (Kabpapagariya Ensemble) or the BIDA MSU of both the College students and Senior High School, these groups exemplify the power of art to unite communities and spark meaningful dialogue.
Space, in the realm of culture and art, holds significance as a medium that bridges diverse communities and fosters understanding and appreciation for different perspectives. A manifestation of such was observed during the 18th Tanghal hosted by the Theater Groups of MSU-GSC. Theatre groups all around Mindanao were given an opportunity to come together to celebrate culture and art, showcasing their authentic theatre performances in the different venues all around General Santos City. Inspired by the stories and events that shaped the narratives in their own provinces, 14 theatre groups of Mindanao transcend language barriers and cultural boundaries. Thus, allowing individuals to communicate and connect on a deeper level, bridging the gap between cultures and fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
However, as successful as the event may have been, the lingering realization has opened the awareness to the lack of facilities for the growth of Theater in our locality. As art transcends language barriers and cultural boundaries, a culturally diverse community like Mindanao State University - General Santos City encounters a problem with space and accessibility.
“Sa University natin, wala tayong opisyal na Theatre Space. We use AVR, and the Gym for Practice and Presentation. Pwede naman sa Open space kaso, hindi kaya ng sound system.” Addressed by Ma’am Rochelle Clair Baliong, Kabpapagariya’s Choreographer, Coordinator, and Production Director.
However, does space really matter?
In this regard, the narrative of not having an official theatre auditorium was not a hindrance to conveying their art. Proof of this truth lies in the history of the Official Art Performing group of MSU-Gensan (Kabpapagariya Ensemble), which began as a leisure skit in the University Cafeteria. Despite these humble beginnings, their passion for theater and commitment to showcasing Mindanaoan culture propelled them to greater heights, eventually earning them recognition and acclaim on local, national, and international stages.
“Kahit saan, basta may entablado at may manonood, isa na iyang Theatre space.” vocalized by Ma’am Rochelle Clair Baliong.
Ma’am Baliong emphasized that theatre isn't confined to traditional auditorium spaces alone. It goes beyond the four corners of a stage, that anywhere can be a theater space if you have an audience and the passion to perform. Whether it's a street corner, an Auditorium, or even an open field, theatre has the power to transform ordinary spaces into venues for storytelling, expression, and connection.
Ultimately, space fills the gap between diverse cultures and people, and theatre provides a space wherein cultural diversity can be celebrated, shared and understood. Through performances that celebrate the richness of culture and explore the complexities of the human experience, theatre brings people together, fosters empathy and understanding, and creates a sense of unity amidst diversity. In the end, it's not just the physical space that matters, but the transformative power of art to transcend boundaries and bring people closer together.
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