UP SAMASKOM Brings Light and Laughter in ‘LIVE A.I.D.S. 36: Let There Be Laughs’
UP SAMASKOM Brings Light and Laughter in ‘LIVE A.I.D.S. 36: Let There Be Laughs’
SINEGANG.ph published this press release shared by UP Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral sa Komunikasyon (UP SAMASKOM). No staff writer participated in writing this article.
Amid today’s social and political turbulence, UP SAMASKOM brings a beacon of light and laughter through its 36th installment of Live A.I.D.S.: Let There Be Laughs, a show featuring dazzling production numbers and sharp satirical sketches that shine a light on socio-political realities.
Live A.I.D.S. (Ang Istoryang Dinebelop ng SAMASKOM, formerly known as Acts, Improvisations, Dances and Songs) is an annual musical-comedy variety show mounted by a talent-laden student organization, UP SAMASKOM. Audiences can expect witty takes on trending topics, viral content, and familiar impersonations in its 36th run, happening from June 26 to 28 at the Ignacio B. Jimenez-KAL Theater in the University of the Philippines Diliman.
Head Writer Waxee Galang says the theme serves as a metaphor for the show’s role in today’s society. "Our world is very enveloped with darkness, with dark forces," Waxee said, describing Live A.I.D.S. as a “light stick” or weapon used to expose realities and confront power. While the show is famous for its comedic tone, he emphasized that its stage remains a platform for fostering clarity and awareness about the world around us.
This year’s creative direction focuses on a bold evolution of the show’s signature energy. Musical Director Jeph Lagdan said that his goal is to electrify the crowd and deliver “the most energetic performance” possible, one that jolts audiences awake and aware.
Beyond the stage, UP SAMASKOM and Live A.I.D.S. also serve as a space for personal growth and self-expression for its members. “UP SAMASKOM gives light to me every time I can show my truest self on and off the stage,” UP SAMASKOM resident member (SAMASKOMER) shared, highlighting the organization’s role not only as a platform for artistic performance but also as a training ground that builds confidence and nurtures individuality.
That same UP SAMASKOM energy has long resonated in Philippine media, having produced notable names such as directors Lauren Dyogi, Jerry Sineneng, Rico Mortel, Connie Macatuno, Don Michael Perez, and Cholo Laurel; broadcasters Kim Atienza, KaladKaren, Lei Alviz, and Tina Panganiban-Perez; as well as entertainment figures RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Ate Glow, Michelle O’ Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, and Mrs. Tan.
Co-Assistant Director Sam Chua Dela Cruz described the production as a “resident show”, showcasing the raw talent and passion of young performers. “Dito mo makikita kung gaano kagaling ang mga kabataan ngayon,” Sam said, noting that SAMASKOMers are pouring their hearts into mounting this year’s production.
Director Deo Divinagracia, who returned to helm the show for a third time after witnessing the passion of the current members, said that he felt compelled to "step up and help the org[anization] be that voice again." By blending lessons from past productions with the fresh culture and skills of today’s students, the team aims to create a Live A.I.D.S. that is both nostalgic and groundbreaking.
More than a musical-comedy variety show, Live A.I.D.S. remains UP SAMASKOM’s unique brand of raising awareness, one that uses laughter to ignite critical thought and reflection. In a rapidly changing social and political landscape, Director Deo described the production as “a necessary tool to wake people up”.
Tickets to Live A.I.D.S. 36: Let There Be Laughs are available at https://www.ticket2me.net/LiveAIDS36. For updates and more information, follow @upsamaskom on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
