Perhaps what makes the pop culture hit Glee so gleefully inspiring is how it vindicates (with pats to boot) the geek in all of us. In a society where success is no more than the ability to “rock” a pair of pants and achievement is simply your “rank” on the popular-o-meter, it is heartening to know that not being part of the herd also has its rewards. It is a subtle reminder that life isn’t just a popularity contest and that “gleeks” have the power to change the system and prevail.

Gleeks all around

But one school in the country harbors this growing breed of change-makers. In Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA), every student is a “gleek.” It is a mix that all of us, closet gleeks, could only dream of.

“It is refreshing to live with like-minded individuals who understand and respect you. We are taught to be strong, to stick to our beliefs and yet, keep an open mind on what others believe in. We are so diverse here, different styles, different disciplines, different methods and yet, we all come together because we have the same mindset: we are passionate about our work. It’s ironic that our individuality is what binds us as a community,” says Student Council president Laui Guico.

Closeted with people whose gift for the arts is surpassed only by their passion for their craft, they know that individuality is to be respected, their uniqueness revered and cultivated. Even the teachers are liberal in their methods. Students enjoy the freedom to express themselves without fear of ridicule or lecture. “Teachers do not tell us how we should write; they impose on us [however] the discipline of a writer, of an artist. But even with this freedom, we are still humbled. We know that we are never enough and therefore, we strive to be even better,” says Isabella Borlaza, a senior and current editor-in-chief of Variations, PHSA’s school paper.

Art as a transformative agent

This is, for senior student Timothy Mabalot, the kind of environment that will not only produce great artists but leaders capable of making transformative changes in the country. In fact, he hopes to one day be able to make a difference in the country through his art. “Art is more than just a means of expression; it can also be a catalyst for change. With people being increasingly visual, art plays an even larger role in influencing people, in inspiring them to make this nation great again,” says Timothy.

Laui agrees, citing how Juan Luna’s Spoliarium became a symbol of oppression or how Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo sparked a revolution. Art is a language that all can understand. It speaks in volumes without raising a ruckus, saying what needs to be said without actually saying the words. “Art is a means of communication and a source of empowerment. It is just sad that Filipinos do not see art for what it is, as more than a pastime and leisurely pursuit. They cannot get past the stage plays, the art exhibits and see what the Arts can really do for society and for this country.”

Maybe if Filipinos do, the country can purge its system of its Sue Sylvesters (read: corrupt, greedy and power-hungry) and sing-sketch-write its way to a golden age.

PHSA is a government-run school for young Filipino artists. Each year, the school offers high school scholarships to the best young artists in different fields. The curriculum is similar to traditional schools but with an add-on, mentorship classes with Master teachers. Chosen students will also be given free board and lodging and a monthly stipend. Application is ongoing. Deadline is on February 8 for Luzon, February 22 for Visayas and March 8 for Mindanao. For more information, please contact Philippine High School for the Arts in Mt. Makiling at (049) 536-6971 to 73 and (049) 536-2862, log on to www.phsa.edu.ph or email phsa@laguna.net.