Central to the story is Rosalinda’s decision to take on a male disguise—a choice made out of necessity in a world where women are endangered for simply existing. What begins as an act of survival opens up possibilities for self-discovery and expression, while also revealing layered tensions between gender and power that continue to resonate today. The Forest of Ardén becomes a space of solace and transformation where hierarchies loosen, identities are explored, and individuals find the freedom to speak, act, and love in new ways.    

Serving as this season’s trainee production, Paano Man Ang Ibig continues Tanghalang Ateneo’s tradition of reimagining classical works through a Filipino lens. As the season opener, it sets the tone for a season that focuses on the woman’s voice finding full expression, not only in opposition, but in healing, joy, and solidarity. For Tanghalang Ateneo’s trainees, stepping into the Forest of Ardén is both a creative and personal journey: an opportunity to discover their voices, build community, and experience the joy of theater-making together. In revisiting Shakespeare through Tinio’s language and the perspectives of emerging artists, the production weaves tradition and new vision, showing how stories from the past can continue to speak powerfully in the present.

The production is also the undergraduate set design thesis production of Julia Macuja, under the advisement of Tata Tuviera.