When passion and purpose collide, there is no doubt that amazing things will happen. With the aim to bring a world-class performance in a local setting and spread more awareness about Parkinson's Disease, the Bereber Sayaw PD is having a star-studded show entitled "Restless Heart" on November 11-13, 2022, at the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Cultural Center.
Novy J. Bereber, a Filipino-Australian Contemporary Dance Choreographer passionate about teaching patients diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and their caretakers, founded Bereber Sayaw Organization for Parkinson's Diseases with the purpose of giving them hope despite the adversity that they are going through.
Parkinson's Disease is a brain condition that manifests in unintentional or uncontrolled movements, including tremors, stiffness, and issues with balance and coordination. But music therapy through Bereber Sayaw PD can help you understand the effect of a Parkinson's diagnosis on your life and also help you reduce anxiety.
"Every time I go home, I would look for a group of people with Parkinson's in Manila. Then, when I introduced Dance for Parkinson's to them, I started to see the difference. The thing about this program is that it is not only for the people with Parkinson's but also with their carers and loved ones. I'm trying to build a community in which they also need to be a part of the class so that they won't feel that they are left behind but rather they are in this together," Novy Bereber, founder of Bereber Sayaw PD, shared when asked about how the organization started and its mission.
'Restless Heart' is a collection of performances that features the world premiere of Tamawo.
This production portrays a distinctively Ilonggo type of Engkanto that like to be near bodies of fresh water connected to forests, specifically the deep forests. The show is also inspired by Novy Bereber's works and his life mission to continue touching other people's hearts.
"I have so many titles in mind for the show, but then it boiled down to me, and during that time, my heart is lost, I don't know what to do, what I want, I'm confused. But now, I understand why it was happening. So, when you watch the show, I am sure anyone can relate since we've all have moments like these in our lives," shared Bereber. He added that the show's title is also inspired by Iloilo City, known as the City of Love, which is why, other than shedding light on Parkinson's Disease, the show also aims to highlight and showcase the culture of the Ilonggo people.
Some notable creatives behind this show are Ignatius Jones, who will serve as the writer and technical consultant; Novy Bereber, who will be the show's choreographer and director; Krina Cayabyab, who will be the show's music composer; and Ricardo Cruz, who will be the stage designer. Furthermore, crème de la crème performers such as Joce Sta. Maria, Kare Adea, Kealan Mclaughlin, Loby Pimentel, Geri Francisco, Jr., Georgette Sanchez, Cyril Fallar, and Clark Rambuyon are expected to grace the stage.
For those interested in watching the show and contributing to the cause, you can avail of tickets in some selected restaurants here in Iloilo City. You can also avail of their tickets by going totheir website: sayawpd.com, or reach them through their Facebook page: Sayaw PD, Dance for Parkinson's. Ticket prices range from 300 pesos to 1,000 pesos. The show will surely give you aonce-in-a-lifetime performance that will ease and calm your 'Restless Heart.'