One-act play discusses education system flaws

Behind the scenes of Ang Goldfish ni Prof. Dimaandal.Photographs courtesy of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

Published on:

24 Mar 2025, 18:26

Ang Goldfish ni Prof. Dimaandal is a satirical production which dwells on prevailing power struggles and flaws of the education system. Written by three-time Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards first-prize winner Eljay Castro Deldoc, this play was inspired by the playwright’s real-life experiences.

The play will be presented by Hala Theater under the School of Arts, Culture and Performance of the Theater Arts Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.Photographs courtesy of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

Directed by Benilde alumna and Virgin Labfest Writing Fellow Mikaella Yoj Sanchez, it will be presented by Hala Theater under the School of Arts, Culture and Performance (SACP) of the Theater Arts Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

The story follows an ongoing investigation involving cranky science teacher Prof. Dimaandal, in pursuit of justice over her beloved pet goldfish which was allegedly murdered by three students. Amid the chaos, true problems within the school will be unveiled.

The play, which was first staged at the 10th Virgin Labfest theater festival in 2014, highlight social issues with a touch of comedic entertainment. It wishes to spark conversations on how to improve the academic system in the country. It also focuses on the significance of honesty, accountability and encourages the audience to practice critical thinking on ethical issues in academics.

Performer and assistant director Anthony Peñaranda.

Dave Palomo

Erich Noreve Baldove

Jeric Tan

Leann Garin

Playwright Eljay Castro Deldoc.

The student-performers include Anthony Peñaranda as Prof. Dimaandal, Erich Noreve Baldove as Prof. Caracol, Hosanna Samonte as Tita Pits, Franchette Montezza as Vannie, Dave Palomo as Pasigan, Jeric Tan as Sir Tugbo, Leann Garin as Lady Guard, and Adrianna Baleda as Dedels.

Peñaranda also serves as the assistant director. The play is produced under the supervision of Production Management adviser Glen Dominic Alarcon, a part-time faculty at SACP.

The show runs from 24 to 27 March at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., and on 28 March at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Gala premiere will be on 29 March at 3 p.m. It will be staged at the sixth-floor Lobby Blackbox Theater of the Benilde Design + Arts Campus. Tickets are available for P250 for Benildeans, P300 for regular attendees, and P500 for the gala. Interested viewers can register and avail their tickets by accomplishing this form: https://tinyurl.com/AngGoldfishniProf

Dimaandal. Walk-in slots are likewise available. For more information, visit facebook.com/halatheater/.

Eljay Castro Deldoc