Gener Caringal’s Andres KKK Returns 30 Years After Its Premiere
Courtesy of Philippine Ballet Theatre
A fresh cast brings Bonifacio’s story to the stage for History Month.
Performing arts have long been a medium for patriotism; history says so. From sarsuwelas to balagtasan and even bodabils, the stage has long reflected the country’s hopes and struggles. So when Gener Caringal received his Gawad CCP para sa Sining award, he referenced Andres Bonifacio’s words: “Aling pag-ibig pa ang hihigit kaya sa pagkadalisay at pagkadakila sa tinubuang lupa? Aling pag-ibig pa? Wala na nga, wala.” It was then that he promised to look forward to loving his art and his country. This August, just in time for History Month, Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) honors his words and brings Andres KKK back to the stage.
First premiered in 1996 to commemorate the centennial of the Philippine Revolution, Andres KKK became one of the masterpieces of Caringal and remains one of PBT’s most widely toured productions. As they revisit Bonifacio’s story, one question lingers, and they hope to encourage audiences to consider: What kind of hero does our nation need, and what kind of people must we become to stand behind one?
For Caringal, Bonifacio is portrayed as someone shaped by poverty, suffering, and love for his country, whose love eventually birthed a hero who cared for the land and its people. Despite this, the hero, for him, is not someone who stands above the people, but someone who stands among them.
It was this sentiment that artistic director Ronilo Jaynario shared when explaining why this story, this art, has stood the test of time 30 years since its premiere. “PBT’s version of history is not simply pages of history in dance. It is a touching tribute to the struggles of the Filipino,” he said in a statement.
Bringing this story of Bonifacio and Gregoria “Oryang” de Jesus to life on stage are Matthew Davo and Dominador Delmo, who alternate in the role of Bonifacio, alongside Jessa Tangalin and Sophia Tiangco, who alternate as Oryang.
“His story stands as a timeless reminder that real freedom cannot survive without rising above personal interests for the greater good. When we fight among ourselves, we lose. Understanding Bonifacio’s legacy reminds us that true freedom cannot survive without national unity,” said Tiangco.
Andres KKK will have a limited run at the Proscenium Theater at Rockwell, Makati, on August 22 and 23, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Andres KKK is a ballet by National Artist for Dance Gener Caringal that tells the story of Andres Bonifacio and the Philippine Revolution.
Gener Caringal is a Filipino choreographer, dancer, and educator known for his contributions to Philippine dance and theater.
Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) is a professional ballet company that presents classical and contemporary works by Filipino and international choreographers.
The Philippine Revolution began on August 23, 1896, when the Katipunan launched its uprising against Spanish colonial rule.
Tickets to Andres KKK can be purchased through TicketWorld. The ballet runs on August 22 and 23, 2026, at the Rockwell Proscenium Theater.