More platforms for local talent is new group’s goal

Multimedia corporations Viva Communications Inc. and Atlantis Productions Inc. have merged as Viva Atlantis Theatricals (Vat), which aims to mount theatrical events featuring Filipino artists here and abroad.

At the helm of the new company are Viva CEO Vic del Rosario and Atlantis artistic director Bobby Garcia who said they hoped to “open new avenues to showcase local talent.”

Del Rosario explained: “Filipinos are among the best performers in the world today. They just need to be seen and heard.” Garcia said he was “thrilled” about the merger, “which can only help us strengthen our audience base.”

VAT will present three Broadway musicals next year. In 2014, it is set to stage “Bongga,” an original Filipino musical featuring the songs of Hotdog, pioneer of the Manila Sound. Garcia will direct this production.