‘Oedipus Rex’ gets a Filipino reckoning in ‘REX’
REX follows the influential Po family, owners of St. Paul the Apostle Constructions, after torrential rains claim the lives of more than a hundred people.
A centuries-old Greek tragedy is finding new relevance in the Philippines through REX, a contemporary adaptation of Oedipus Rex that turns its spotlight on failed infrastructure, flood control problems and the consequences of corruption.
Produced by the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s School of Arts, Culture and Performance, the 105-minute production reimagines Sophocles’ classic as a story rooted in present-day Filipino realities.
Written by Palanca Hall of Famer and Benilde Film faculty member Joshua Lim So and directed by acclaimed theater artist Tuxqs Rutaquio, REX follows the influential Po family, owners of St. Paul the Apostle Constructions, after torrential rains claim the lives of more than a hundred people. As the family scrambles to protect its interests, hidden truths begin to unravel, exposing how corruption and neglect can lead to devastating consequences.
Rather than retelling the original tragedy scene by scene, the play reframes its central themes through issues that continue to confront the country, including questionable public infrastructure, inadequate flood control and the human cost of placing power above accountability.
The production also explores how stories written more than two millennia ago can still resonate with modern audiences, asking what happens when political influence becomes a family enterprise and ordinary citizens are left to bear the consequences.
EMILIO Macabantad and EJ Jallorina.
Veteran actors Eula Valdes and Martin del Rosario lead the cast, reuniting onstage 12 years after both received Gawad Urian acting honors for the independent film Dagitab. They are joined by Sheryll Ceasico, EJ Jallorina, Bong Cabrera, Emilio Macabantad, and a company of student performers, faculty members and alumni.
REX also brings together collaborators from Benilde’s Theater Arts, Production Design, Dance, Music Production, Multimedia Arts, Photography and Creative Industries Management programs alongside industry professionals.
The creative team includes movement director Christine Crame, lighting designer Jose Joaquin Aranda, sound designer TJ Martinez, costume designer Phillip Domingo, projection designer Ces Valera, and poster artist Carlo Vergara.
The production opens on 12 November at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati, with a gala performance on 13 November.
Additional performances are scheduled on 14 to 15 November, 19 to 20 November, and 21 to 22 November.
Ticket prices are P2,700 for Trono ni Rex (VIP), P2,300 for Tanaw ng Tebes (Front Floor Level), and P2,000 for Gilid ng Lihim (Sides Elevated Bleachers).