Antigong Agong and the Six Elements of Tragedy

PLOT
At first glance, the story might be about Sam and his friends, but it was only through them that a more important theme of the story has been told. The musical play was all about the small community in Jolo, Sulu whose bloody history was long forgotten by the generations that followed after the massacre. At the end of the story we see that Sam and Amrayda's marriage was more important and symbolic. What seems to be an ordinary concern of a young Tausug complicates to challenges that led to self-discovery of great proportions.
CHARACTERS
The actors were well suited to their roles considering the fact that they are real Tausugs who carry with them their culture and tradition. Sam appeared to be the protagonist of the play but he was only the instrument through which the story was told.
DICTION
The dialogues were appropriate for each character based on the personality they have established from the very beginning. They might have changed views in the end but their lines reflect the same principles all throughout.
THOUGHT
Some of their social commentaries were ripe with attacks on current issues. It also shows the comic side of life of the Filipinos even in the midst of difficulties. The battle against poverty, discrimination and war did not just end with the Bud Dahu massacre. We still fight for the same ideals until today.
SPECTACLE
The overall stage appearance was imposing and yet it was very appropriate for the play. The scene where the massacre took place can make the audience feel as if they were really at the foot of Mt. Bud Dahu
MELODY
The songs have a lot to do with the impact of the musical. They were not only able to show the traditional musical instruments to the younger people in the audience but also the dances which they mixed with contemporary moves and martial arts.

The play was not tragic in essence. The massacre may have occured but the marriage of Sam and Amrayda was a new beginning for the entire community.

The Beat of the Agong

The beat of the agong might have been a requiem for the Tausugs in Jolo, Sulu on March 6, 1906. The sound of the guns have been the last music they danced to.But tragedies can be a source of inspiration. And the incident was what inspired 2-time Palanca awardee Arnel Mardoquio to write the Antigong Agong for its centennial celebration.

The music, the actors and the story of the Bud Dahu massacre made the musical play an unforgettable experience (or maybe it was just the effect of sitting in the front row).At first I thought it was just another corny love story but I'm glad it turned out differently. Sam's ordinary problem of getting the money for the dowry led to bigger and more important discoveries.

The musicians did a great job. I enjoyed the songs that contained comments on social issues and how the characters themselves made fun of their misery.The play is full of social commentaries that are bold and amusing. The songs and dialogues are meant deliver it with grace and style that hits right through the consciousness of the audience. It shows not just the exploits of Sam and his friends, but the life and history of the community. They were able to put together the different elements without forgetting the theme of the story.

They deserved that standing ovation.