Page 4 - Live AIDS G na G sa 33

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DEO DIVINAGRACIA Batch 94.2, Director
Ihave been told that I am way too old to still be involved in my college organization and its
flagship project, Live A.I.D.S. After all, I graduated from UP 21 years ago and the first time I set foot on the Live A.I.D.S. stage was during its 11th installment in 1994. I was told that performing, writing, directing the 18th staging and being involved in the show in one way or another the past 25 years should be enough. I can say goodbye to Live A.I.D.S. and no one can fault me for it.
But how do you say goodbye to a show that has allowed you to be yourself and let your voice be heard? How can you disregard one of the most intelligent and fearless shows that calls out the ills of our society while making the audience laugh? How do you close the door on the opportunity to do what you love (sing, dance, and act) with people you have grown to love not just as friends and orgmates but as family?
How do you bid farewell to a glorious tradition that has taught you so much about life and set you on the path to becoming your best self? How can you turn your back
on the organization that helped you develop faith in yourself and pride in your work?
What you do is you help provide the same experiences that shaped you to the succeeding generations. Instead of complaining about the disparity between these kids and how
we were during our heyday, we adapt to the changing times and find a way for them to realize the lessons from struggling to mount a show like Live A.I.D.S.
You do not despair over the fading glory of the past, you share the passion to ensure that the legacy lives on. You do not say “I’ve done enough!” but instead ask “What else can I do?”
Directing Live A.I.D.S. is never easy, but this year’s show is fraught with more than the usual challenges. But just like a family, so many beautiful people stepped up and made this show possible. The support I received from these orgmates who I love and respect is the reason why directing Live A.I.D.S. 33 will not be my graceful exit. I do
not intend to leave with a bang but instead hope to spark some joy in the rising generation and rekindle the flames in the hearts of others.
Lastly, I dedicate this show to my family who never questioned my “addiction” to Live A.I.D.S. and in fact are my biggest enablers. This is for my number one fan, my Mama Ging.”
YOU
CANNOT.
YOU DO
NOT.
Live A.I.D.S.