After a five-year hiatus due to pandemic restrictions, UP Diliman’s longest-running comedy variety show, Live A.I.D.S. (Ang Istoryang Dinebelop ng SAMASKOM), is making a highly anticipated comeback.
The 34th edition of this annual musical-comedy series, produced by the talent-laden student organization UP SAMASKOM, is set to take the stage from July 5 to 7 at the Ignacio B. Jimenez – KAL Theater in UP.
This year’s production, titled ‘LIVE A.I.D.S.: HYSTERICAL REVISIONISM: Tatlumpu’t Apat na Taon ng Makasaysayang Tawanan, Sayawan at Kimmy-nism,’ promises to deliver a humorous yet sharp take on socio-political issues and pop culture. The show will feature witty commentary on Philippine society, trending topics, and viral content, all interspersed with dances and dazzling production numbers to ensure an unforgettable experience for audiences.
“What started as a mere applicants’ batch project in 1983 is now one of the most awaited events in the Diliman Republic. Each year, Live AIDS always surpasses its previous record number of fans who watch the show,” said Venice Atienza, Production Management Mentor for Live A.I.D.S. Hysterical Revisionism and a U.P. SAMASKOM alumna.
SAMASKOM alumni have significantly influenced the local entertainment industry, achieving fame both in front of and behind the camera. Notable figures who began their careers with Live AIDS include Kuya Kim Atienza, Giselle Sanchez, RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Wency Cornejo, Ate Glow, Michelle O’ Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, Mrs. Tan, and KaladKaren. Additionally, ABS-CBN’s head of TV Production, Star Magic Chief, and Pinoy Big Brother Head Director Laurenti Dyogi, along with ABS-CBN Global Head of Creative Services Ned Legaspi, are proud SAMASKOM alumni.
Live AIDS continues to attract a devoted following, including celebrities such as Bianca Gonzales, Ricky Lee, Quark Henares, John Lapus, Rajo Laurel, Jigs Mayuga, Tim Yap, and Vice Ganda.
“Live A.I.D.S. and the UP SAMASKOM are platforms where students and alumni members alike are given the opportunity to nurture their talents and skill sets, and essentially nurture them to face the real world,” said Mrs. Tan, a well-known Filipino drag artist and seasoned performer in the show.
“This show bolsters one’s talent, skills, and self-confidence. It’s evident in our alumni members,” added KaladKaren, a veteran performer, writer, production member, and former resident officer of UP SAMASKOM.
“With the issues and concerns of the Philippines at present and history distortion as well, it is time to continue the UP SAMASKOM tradition of amusing audiences and making them aware of political and social matters. This year, through the Live AIDS legacy, everyone will hear what Samaskom will say about the current times. This is a show that finds humor on the right side of history,” stated Bill Barrinuevo, Director of Live AIDS Hysterical Revisionism.
“There is pressure to outdo ourselves every show. This is our comeback show – we want to reawaken our audience as we give them the best show they will ever see. It is terrifying but it is a welcome challenge. UP SAMASKOM is passionate in creating a show that speaks out and entertains at the same time,” he concluded.
Tickets for Live AIDS Hysterical Revisionism are available at https://liveaids.helixpay.ph. For more information, follow @upsamaskom on Twitter and Instagram, and on Facebook at facebook.com/upsamaskom.
