The Philippines' Longest-Running Campus Comedy Variety Show is Back!

U.P. SAMASKOM Kicks Off LIVE A.I.D.S: HYSTERICAL REVISIONISM - Thirty-Four Years of Historic Laughter, Dance, and Kimmy-nism!

After a five-year hiatus from the theater scene due to pandemic restrictions, the longest-running comedy variety show from the UP Diliman campus is making a triumphant return! Live A.I.D.S. (Ang Istoryang Dinebelop ng SAMASKOM), an annual musical-comedy series produced by the talent-rich student organization UP SAMASKOM, is set to stage its 34th edition from July 5 to 7 at the Ignacio B. Jimenez - KAL Theater in UP.

This year's edition, titled LIVE A.I.D.S.: HYSTERICAL REVISIONISM: “Tatlumpu’t Apat na Taon ng Makasaysayang Tawanan, Sayawan at Kimmy-nism”, promises to deliver its signature blend of humor and sharp socio-political commentary. Through witty skits, dances, and dazzling production numbers, the show will provide a comic lens on Philippine society and contemporary issues, turning trending topics and viral content into an unforgettable performance.

"What started as a mere applicants' batch project in 1983 has grown into one of the most anticipated events in the Diliman Republic. Each year, Live A.I.D.S. always surpasses its previous record number of fans who watch the show," says Venice Atienza, Production Management Mentor for Live A.I.D.S Hysterical Revisionism, a UP SAMASKOM alumna who has been involved in both the production and creative departments of the show for several years.

UP SAMASKOM alumni have made significant contributions to the local entertainment scene, both in front of and behind the camera. The careers of notable personalities such as Kuya Kim Atienza, Giselle Sanchez, RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Wency Cornejo, Ate Glow, Michelle O’ Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, Mrs. Tan, and KaladKaren were all launched through Live A.I.D.S.

Prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including ABS-CBN’s head of TV Production, Star Magic Chief, and Pinoy Big Brother Head Director Laurenti (Loren) Dyogi, as well as ABS-CBN Global Head of Creative Services Ned Legaspi, are also SAMASKOM alumni.

The show has amassed a dedicated following of fans and avid viewers, including celebrities like Bianca Gonzales, Ricky Lee, Quark Henares, John Lapus, Rajo Laurel, Jigs Mayuga, Tim Yap, and Vice Ganda.

"Live A.I.D.S. and UP SAMASKOM provide platforms for students and alumni to hone their talents and skills, preparing them for the real world," explains Mrs. Tan, a well-known Filipino drag artist and seasoned performer in the show.

"This show enhances one’s talent, skills, and self-confidence. It’s evident in our alumni members," adds KaladKaren, another UP SAMASKOM alumna and experienced performer, writer, and production member.

“With the current issues facing the Philippines and the distortion of history, it is crucial to continue the UP SAMASKOM tradition of entertaining audiences while raising awareness of political and social matters. This year, through the Live A.I.D.S legacy, everyone will hear what SAMASKOM has to say about the current times. This is a show that finds humor on the right side of history," states Bill Barrinuevo, Director of Live A.I.D.S Hysterical Revisionism.

“There is pressure to outdo ourselves with every show. This is our comeback show, and we want to reawaken our audience by giving them the best performance they have ever seen. It is terrifying but a welcome challenge. UP SAMASKOM is passionate about creating a show that speaks out and entertains simultaneously,” he added.

Tickets for Live A.I.D.S Hysterical Revisionism can be purchased at Live Aids. For more information, follow @upsamaskom on Twitter and Instagram, and on Facebook at UP Samaskom.