Mulat Art Movement

 Bringing arts closer to the people

By Earl D.C. Bracamonte

The Mulat Art Movement is a new art movement that seeks to start social conversations through a series of performances in time for the celebration of Arts Month.

A fortnight ago, a collection of artists from different disciplines congregated in an art space along Panay Avenue in Quezon City. This gathering, known within the group as Salu-salong Makata, served as the general assembly and sharing session of the fledgling art group known as the Mulat Art Movement.

Spearheaded by playwrights and directors Jay M. Crisostomo IV and Justin Ayran, the group is composed of both veterans (like filmmaker Ibonman) and new faces (such as actor/dancer Deborah Lemuel, fresh from her stint in "Mula sa Buwan"). The group aims to bring artistic performances to small communities in order to spark conversations and discussions about social issues, values, and the role each Filipino plays in making our country better.

Salu-salong Makata was an opportunity for members of the group to talk about the different projects and productions the artists have prepared. Among them were the four productions by Crisostomo and Ayran - four stories tackling different facets of the Filipino experience. 

The group will take its show to various cafes, bars, and art venues this coming February to bring awareness to their cause, as well as generate revenue for its undertakings. By March, the group will start visiting the smaller communities it originally planned to perform in. The group will stage performances in basketball courts, barangay halls, or the open streets; in its efforts to reach more people and effect change in the process.

The Mulat Art Movement relies on the volunteerism of its artists and the support of people who share a common goal with the group. The movement is ready to accept more volunteers, collaborators, and financial supporters.

Catch the Mulat Art Movement’s February shows on Feb 3 (9pm, Lamp Quarters, Marikina City), Feb 11 (8pm, 89 Panay Avenue, Quezon City), Feb 18 (8pm, Pura Vida, Makati City), and Feb 25 (8pm, Hustle Cup, Antipolo City). Tickets are available through bit.ly/MulatTickets.