Fresh off the uproarious success of Live A.I.D.S. 34: Hysterical Revisionism, the University of the Philippines’ premiere student organization, UP SAMASKOM, unveiled its latest comedy-musical-variety extravaganza, Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story, at a press conference held March 28.
Set to run from May 9 to 11, 2025, at the Ignacio B. Jimenez (IBG) – KAL Theater in UP Diliman, this 35th installment also marks the organization’s golden 50th anniversary.
Since its inception in the 1970s, Live A.I.D.S. has been a beloved tradition, making it the longest-running comedy-musical-variety show in the Philippines. Known for its sharp wit, infectious humor, and fearless social commentary, the show has entertained generations of students, alumni, and comedy enthusiasts. This year’s edition, A Laugh Story, promises to uphold that legacy, blending satire with dazzling performances that tackle pop culture, viral trends, and pressing socio-political issues.
“A Laugh Story’ brings together diverse tales and testimonies and tells stories of triumph and challenges with laughter and wit, mixing humor with heart. Behind every laugh there’s a story, and this show ensures that each story stands and speaks out against pressing social issues. We will show how humor can be a powerful tool for truth, and a powerful force for reflection and change,” said Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story Director, John Kenneth De Leon.
Beyond its reputation as a hit show, Live A.I.D.S. has long served as a nurturing ground for talent. The production has launched the careers of notable alumni such as Kuya Kim Atienza, Tuesday Vargas, KaladKaren (Jervi Wrightson), and drag icon Mrs. Tan, as well as behind-the-scenes luminaries like ABS-CBN’s Laurenti Dyogi and Ned Legaspi. Celebrities like Vice Ganda, Bianca Gonzalez, and Ricky Lee count themselves among its avid fans, a testament to its influence in the entertainment industry.
At the press conference, Jervi Wrightson a.k.a.
KaladKaren shared her journey with UP SAMASKOM.
KaladKaren shared her journey with UP SAMASKOM.“Naisipan nilang gumawa ng Live AIDS, dahil, this is during the EDSA Revolution. Naisip nilang platform itong Live AIDS, to somehow express their selves creatively, while tackling the issues of the society,” she said, tracing the show’s roots to students seeking a voice amid political upheaval. She noted its growth from a UP-centric audience to a broader reach, including the LGBTQIA+ community.
“It has to be, every single Filipino. From masa, from class A, B, C, D, E, I think, makaka-relate sila sa Live AIDS, kasi when it comes to UP comedy, it’s really relatable,” she added, underscoring the show’s universal appeal.
“Every year, kapag may pagkakataon, bumabalik po kami rito sa UP SAMASKOM, to show our love and gratitude to this organization, and I’m proud to say that Live AIDS is back! This is our biggest show yet!” Wrightson exclaimed.
Mrs. Tan, a veteran performer whose drag artistry has graced international stages, reflected, “Live A.I.D.S is a vital and memorable journey for SAMASKOMERS. It is not just about how it makes you shine; it also fosters lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging through shared stories.”
Production Manager MJ Karaan emphasized the show’s enduring connection with its community. “LIVE A.I.D.S. connects its story with its members, performers, and audiences, keeping the laughter of the organization alive,” Karaan said.
For 50 years, UP SAMASKOM has used Live A.I.D.S. to hone extraordinary talents and open doors to the entertainment world. “The show provides a stage to showcase extraordinary talents, build confidence, create opportunities to shine, and prepare you to step into the real world of entertainment,” Wrightson shared.
As the 35th installment approaches, anticipation builds for a landmark production that celebrates laughter while amplifying the Filipino experience. Tickets for the May 9-11 shows will soon be available, promising a historic run.
Tickets to Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story will be available at https://liveaids.helixpay.ph starting March 31, Monday. For more information, follow @upsamaskom on X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and on Facebook at facebook.com/upsamaskom.
