A full-length play that delves into the issues of teenage bullying and the value of self-empowerment and resilience through the enchanting presence of Philippine mythological and  folkloric creatures will be staged beginning 1 February.

Inspired by the classic children's novel Alice in Wonderland by distinguished English author and poet Lewis Carroll, Ada, Lundag sa Hiwaga follows the story of high school student Ada, who faces daily intimidation from her once close friend Maggie after an incident during a seemingly innocent game.

Her life takes a positive turn after she stumbled upon a magical realm called Hiwaga, which is inhabited by mythological beings, such as bakunawa (serpent-like dragon), diwata (fairies), duwende (dwarfs) and kapre (tree demon).

Ada, Lundag sa Hiwaga is written by Jay "BJ" Crisostomo IV, a Palanca awardee and artistic associate of staging company Langgam Performance Troupe. Direction is by Dance Program educators and industry experts Madonna Tinoy and Mycs Villoso. The play is produced by Nina Anonas, Benilde Dance chairperson and accredited examiner of the training school Australian Conservatoire of Ballet.

Choreography is by Tinoy, Villoso and Anonas. The piece is co-choreographed by Monica Gana, dance alumna and soloist of the first resident group of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Ballet Philippines.

Ada, Lundag sa Hiwaga will be staged from 1 to 3 February, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., at the 5/F theater of the Benilde Design + Arts Campus, 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila. Tickets are at P600. To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/benildearts.