Hermenigildo Tesoro Jr.: American Theatre Rising Star
Honolulu Theatre for Youth Prepares for “Uncle’s (mostly True) Stories of the Philippines” – A Deep Dive
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Honolulu Theatre for youth (HTY) is gearing up for the world premiere of Uncle’s (Mostly True) Stories of the Philippines,a new production created by Eric Tesoro and the HTY Ensemble. This show, running November 3-26, promises a vibrant journey thru Filipino culture and history, tailored for young audiences. This article explores the inspiration behind the play, the unique approach of HTY, and the broader context of Filipino-American portrayal and past recognition.
what is Uncle’s (Mostly True) Stories of the Philippines About?
The play is described as a “road trip through the Philippines in a colorful jeepney with an unreliable uncle as your driver.” This framing device allows for a non-linear exploration of Filipino culture, weaving together tales as intricate as a coconut leaf basket. The stories aren’t presented as a rigid historical account, but rather as the often-embellished recollections of a beloved, if somewhat unreliable, family member.
The initial inspiration stemmed from the life of Floro Villabrille, a renowned Eskrima/Kali stick fighter who trained under a “blind princess” before leading a quiet life on Kauai. However, the scope of the play has expanded to encompass other notable cultural figures, including national hero josé Rizal. This broadening suggests a desire to present a multifaceted portrait of the Philippines, moving beyond individual stories to explore broader themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage.
Eric Tesoro: A 29-Year Veteran of HTY
Eric Tesoro, affectionately known as “Junior,” has been a cornerstone of HTY for nearly three decades. His long tenure speaks to the theatre’s commitment to original work and its unique creative process. Tesoro’s dedication isn’t simply about longevity; it’s about a deep investment in the Hawaiian community and a belief in the power of theatre to connect with young audiences on a meaningful level.
Tesoro emphasizes that HTY’s productions are rarely adaptations. They are created for Hawai’i audiences, drawing on a diverse range of artistic disciplines – puppetry, music, film, dance, movement, costuming, illustration, and original songwriting. Crucially, HTY integrates cultural practitioners and master artists from the community, ensuring authenticity and respectful representation. This collaborative approach is what Tesoro describes as a “creative potluck,” where everyone contributes their expertise and learns from one another.
the Unique Approach of Honolulu Theatre for Youth
HTY distinguishes itself from other youth theatres through its commitment to creating original work and its respectful, nuanced approach to storytelling. Tesoro’s comments about avoiding “baby talk” are particularly revealing. This reflects a fundamental belief in the intelligence and sophistication of young audiences.HTY doesn’t patronize; it engages.
This ideology extends to the subject matter itself. By tackling complex themes like Filipino history and cultural identity, HTY provides opportunities for young people to learn about the world around them and to develop a deeper understanding of diffrent cultures. This is particularly important in Hawai’i, a state with a rich and diverse cultural landscape.
Here’s a breakdown of HTY’s key characteristics:
| Feature | Description | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Original Productions | Shows are created specifically for Hawai’i audiences, not adaptations. | Fosters local talent and addresses relevant themes. |
| Interdisciplinary Approach | Combines puppetry, music, dance, film, and more. | Creates dynamic and engaging theatrical experiences. |
| Community Collaboration | Integrates cultural practitioners and master artists. | Ensures authenticity and respectful representation. |
| Respectful Storytelling | Avoids condescension and treats young audiences as intelligent individuals. | Builds trust and encourages critical thinking. |
| Cultural Focus | Often explores themes of Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture. | Promotes cultural understanding and recognition. |
Addressing Misconceptions: youth Theatre and Filipino History
Tesoro addresses two critically important misconceptions. The first challenges the notion of what “youth theatre” should be, advocating for a level of respect and intellectual engagement that mirrors how adults are addressed. The second,