The programs, as of this writing, remains the country’s longest-running in the said genre.
On Saturday, January 31, the Intramuros Administration, Museo Alternatibo and John en Marsha Legacy, with the support of ABS-CBN Sagip Pelikula and CineMo, will present a pop-up exhibition dedicated to one of Philippine TV’s cornerstones.
Entitled Magsumikap Ka, the John en Marsha Pop-Up Exhibit and Lost Episode Screening, will happen at Teatro Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila and will celebrate the enduring legacy of the beloved Philippine television sitcom that starred the late screen legends Dolphy and Nida Blanca.
According to its organizers, there will be a curated selection of rare memorabilia, including posters, lobby photos, vintage publications, official home video releases, and merchandise, with “familiar music that defined the series” enhancing the experience.
Complementing the exhibit is a special screening of three lost and rare television episodes, as well as an exclusive talkback session featuring thebsurviving guest stars from the screened episodes. They will be sharing firsthand accounts that illuminate the sitcom’s production and its lasting influence on Filipino pop culture at 2:00 pm.
In the evening, the 6:00 pm screening will feature a replay of the two previously-screened episodes along with an additional rare episode, offering audiences another opportunity to revisit these materials, as per the organizers.
In summation, this will give its visitors a deeper appreciation of the series’ cultural and historical significance.
A key highlight of the event is the fan-led campaign advocating for Dolphy’s recognition as a National Artist, positioning the exhibit and screening as a tribute to one of the King of Comedy’s most significant bodies of work.
Interactive booths will be held by movie channel CineMo and the Museo Alternatibo, which wille feature games and exclusive merchandise.
There is a park entrance fee of PHP 75 for Regular passholders and PHP 50 for Students, Senior Citizens, and Persons with Disabilities.
Registration for the limited slots are being conducted through an online form. (https://forms.gle/jvfY5JWi9n5QvLpVA)
John en Marsha premiered at the height of the Martial Law era in the early ’70s, having been broadcast by RPN-9 throughout the entirety of its run.
Following the seismic shift that befell the station after the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, the program ended its successful 17-year-run in early 1990.