Once On This Island - making waves of emotions in a spectacular musical

Saw the matinee show of 9 Works Theatrical’s Once On This Island last weekend with Angela Ken as Ti Moune and Sam Concepcion as Daniel.

The stage immediately took us to the sea. The drapes and fringes are constantly flowing while you hear the calming sound of the waves. If you’re not familiar with the show like me, you will immediately think you’re in a very colorful seaside vibe which they did deliver. I admit I was a bit worried about the sloped platforms and how they’d sing and dance but trusting the theater gods, our actors were completely safe to prance and give us a great show. The stage was indeed beautifully done. 

The songs and dances are quite inviting to a party. It would be delightful if they pulled some audiences to dance onstage for a moment to remember. 

This might be the most pleasant sounding musical for me to date. Angela Ken got the sound of a siren and pure emotions that comes out of Ti Moune. An early congratulations to her. Supported with many theater veterans in the show, all have complimented their harmonies.

Sam Concepcion who headlines another musical at the northern part of the Metro is also a must see. He and Angela make a cute chemistry that will swoon the audiences with their love story. Don't want to give spoilers but it is something emotionally devastating. It means that they are both great and effective in their parts.

And oh, I love the gods' hats. Hoped they could be part of the available merch so we can play gods at one time. 

Once On This Island runs until September 29 at Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza, Makati. Directed by Robbie Guevara. For tickets, visit bit.ly/OnceOnThisIslandMNL.

Read More

RENT cast talk to their 2024 alter egos -- life advices from their characters.

The highly anticipated return of the iconic musical RENT is poised to captivate audiences once again, gracing the stage of the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium starting April 19, 2024, under the esteemed production of 9 Works Theatrical. Jonathan Larson's timeless masterpiece continues to resonate deeply, portraying a group of individuals navigating the trials and triumphs of life, a narrative that remains as poignant and relevant today as ever before.

During an exclusive media conference with the cast, we delved into a thought-provoking inquiry: what wisdom would their characters impart to them as actors? This introspective question sparked profound reflections, especially considering the youthful composition of the cast and the evolving landscape since the musical's inception. Yet, the enduring relevance of its social themes persists.

Paul Valdez, embodying the role of Steve, a pillar of support for PLHIV, shared a poignant insight. Steve, he mused, would underscore the significance of family—whether by blood or choice—and the imperative to cherish every fleeting moment. For Paul, the experience of collaborating with the ensemble has reignited his passion for theater, forging bonds akin to a supportive family.

Reb Atadero, portraying Mark Cohen, encapsulated a crucial message: "Live for the art, don't die for it." His words resonated deeply, urging fellow artists to prioritize self-care amidst the pursuit of their craft, echoing Mark's struggles as a starving artist.

Ally, another luminary in the PLHIV support network, conveyed a message of solidarity to Misha Fabian, emphasizing the importance of community and empathy, epitomizing the central ethos of RENT—making the most of life's fleeting moments and fostering meaningful connections.

Kai Banson, in the role of Alexi Darling, reflected on the theme of choice, navigating the intersection between circumstance and aspiration. Alexi's hypothetical counsel echoed Kai's assertion that every choice is valid, free from judgment—a sentiment underscored by the musical's narrative.

For Abi Sulit, portraying Pam, the essence of empathy resounded deeply. Pam's hypothetical query—how does one measure a life?—encapsulates the complexity of human experience, urging against facile judgments.

Lance Reblando, embodying the ethereal Angel, imparted a message of hope amidst heartbreak, affirming the existence of genuine love—a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Vyen Villanueva echoed the sentiments of his peers, advocating for courage over fear, a resonant theme in the characters' journeys of self-discovery.

The cast and creative team of 9 Works Theatrical's RENT

These insights offer a glimpse into the profound connection between actor and character, underscoring the enduring resonance of RENT's narrative. They are but a few luminaries in the rich tapestry of 9 Works Theatrical's production, which features a stellar ensemble cast.

Experience the unfolding of their narrative firsthand! Secure your tickets via ticket2me.net and embark on a journey of self-discovery, celebrating the vitality of life, health, and friendship.

RENT will grace the stage from April 19 to the first weekend of June 2024, with performances at 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and 8:00 pm on Fridays, at the CPR Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati.

Read More

RENT returns on 2024, announces casting criteria

After successfully closing tick... tick... BOOM! last Sunday, 9 Works Theatrical announced the return of their multi-awarded musical R.E.N.T., another masterpiece by Jonathan Larson.

R.E.N.T., with the iconic song Seasons Of Love had its 9 Works debut in 2010 and has numerous sold-out reruns. First led by Gian Magdangal as Roger, Carla Laforteza as Maureen, Sheree Bautista as Mimi and the rest of the ensemble to bring the message of hope and advocacy on LGBT, AIDS and more, that makes it a relevant musical of the generation.

Just today, 9WT has announced that they are looking for new faces to immortalize the roles of Roger, Mimi, Maureen, Mark, Benjamin, Angel, Tom, and Joanne on stage. Check out the criteria below.

We look forward to these fresh talents that will sing our favorite Jonathan Larson music and deliver his message to everyone. For more updates, follow 9 Works Theatrical on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Read More

tick... tick... BOOM! Time is not running out for everyone.

Live theater is back for 9 Works Theatrical. Maybe the most recent company to open its doors to the audience with their restaging of one of Jonathan Larson's notable musicals, tick... tick... BOOM! This expresses that there will be a right time for all things. And the timing for staging this is well-executed.

tick... tick... BOOM! is about a struggling artist who feels the pressure of success in a target time, the case of which is before the age of 30. Led by Jef Flores, with Reb Atadero and Tanya Manalang, alternating with Khalil Ramos, Vien King and Kayla Rivera, this musical hits to the core of everyone who undergoes existential crisis and overthinking the goals that surround us.

Jon (Flores/Ramos) is like many of us. He has the ideals, passion but punched by reality in the face. I sometimes associate him to Christian of Moulin Rouge who believes that everything has its order but dwells in the reality that we are starting penniless and need to work hard.

But on the bright side, we are lucky to be given with a handful of people who can support us. Reb and Tanya, playing Mike and Susan, could be your household companions. It seems that Jonathan Larson was very lucky to have these two in his life. He was not even harshly confronted of taking too long to push a career but instead they supported his dreams. 

The three, collectively, has to be given credit for exemplary performance in their roles. They have formed a great ensemble with just 3 cast members. The stage also has a notable moment that drew the audience into a great impact which understands our feelings and in a comforting way. A special applause for director Robbie Guevara for a fun treatment on this production. It was clearly different in Netflix's version which stars Andrew Garfield, but that is for another commentary. 

9 Works' comeback production of tick... tick... BOOM! runs until August 27, 2023 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium. The cast are shuffled every show so you can watch different takes on the roles. For tickets, you may visit https://bit.ly/m/ticktickBOOMmnl

Read More

Fear or Love, Baby?

9 Works Theatrical presents Jonathan Larson’s tick, tick… BOOM!

tick, tick…BOOM!: A Must-Watch for All Artists and Creatives

If you’re a struggling artist or creative, odds are, you’ve found yourself asking this question: Will you pursue the passion that makes your life worth living? Or will you pursue a career that makes a living?

This is the story of our protagonist Jon in the musical tick, tick… BOOM! Jon is an aspiring composer who is about to turn thirty and is growing increasingly anxious about his future in theater. Pressure mounts when his girlfriend, Susan, hounds him about leaving New York to start a family and seek a more stable profession. Tensions also rise when his best friend Michael—an erstwhile actor-turned marketing executive—tries to convince him to join the fold.

Amidst it all, Jon hears a constant ticking–a reminder that he is getting older, with little to show.

“You're no longer the ingénue / Turn thirty, 1990 / Boom! You're passe!”
- 30/90 from tick, tick…BOOM!

Created by Jonathan Larson in the 90s, tick, tick…BOOM! brilliantly captures the internal war within every creative spirit: the struggle between going after one’s dreams and settling for a comfortable but joyless life. This story continues to ring true decades after its debut, largely because Larson harnessed his own life experiences, to bring the characters and songs to life. tick, tick…BOOM! began as a semi-autobiographical rock monologue about Larson’s hardships while trying to make a name for himself in the theater since the ‘80s. Sadly, Larson died the day before the preview performance of his masterpiece, Rent. He was 35.

“Can he make his mark, if he gives up his spark?”
- Johnny Can’t Decide from tick, tick…BOOM!

If you are a creative spirit, or if you have artist friends and family, bring them to RCBC Plaza any weekend this August to catch this era-defining musical!

In this restaging of the three-person musical, 9 Works Theatrical has assembled the perfect cast in theater veteran Jef Flores and Kapuso star Khalil Ramos (alternating as Jon), Miss Saigon alum Tanya Manalang and multimedia performer Kayla Rivera (alternating as Susan), and rising star Vien King and actor-creator Reb Atadero (alternating as Michael).

Back L-R: Kayla Rivera, Vien King, Reb Atadero, Tanya Manalang
Front L-R: Jef Flores, Khalil Ramos

tick, tick…BOOM! is directed by Robbie Guevara, with Daniel Bartolome as musical director, JM Cabling as choreographer, Mio Infante as scenographer, Shakira Villa-Symes as lighting designer, Bam Tiongson as Sound Designer, Myrene Santos as hair and makeup designer, Marlito Ambrocio as technical director, Ian Cartalaba as costume supervisor, and JV Rabano as photographer.

tick, tick…BOOM! will be showing all weekends of August 2023 at 3:00pm & 7:30pm on Saturdays & Sundays, at the CPR Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati. Tickets are now available via ticket2me.net. Grab yours while you can!

tick, tick…BOOM! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Read More

Experiencing “Milestone Anxiety”? tick, tick…BOOM! is your safe space

According to ExploringYourMind.com, milestone anxiety is defined as “the psychological pressure that people experience when they perceive that they haven’t yet met many of their expectations and life goals.” Some life milestones include buying a home, getting married, having kids and more. Just last year, UK-based organization Relate discovered that this milestone anxiety is rising among millennials and Gen Z members. The early 30s seem to be a real “crunch point”—by age 30, young adults are expected to have their lives together.

Anxious about turning 30 (or getting older)? Say less.
There’s a musical that says it all—one that was written decades ago, but is still relevant to our milestone anxiety-ridden generation.

tick, tick…BOOM! is a musical created by Jonathan Larson (Rent). It’s the story about a group of twenty-somethings trying to find their way in ‘90s New York.

Main character Jon is a struggling composer, who is days away from turning thirty. He can’t help but hear that internal ticking of the clock: he doesn’t want to turn a year older with nothing to show. His girlfriend, Susan, wants to leave New York to start a family and establish a stable career in the suburbs. Adding to the pressure is his best friend and ex-theater buddy, Michael, who convinces him to join the marketing industry instead and lead a more comfortable life.

“Years are getting shorter, lines on your face are getting longer. Feel like you’re treading water, but the riptide’s getting stronger.” - 30/90 from tick, tick…BOOM!

This musical continues to be #relatable even (and especially) among younger audiences because of its truthfulness. Larson actually drew inspiration from his own personal struggles and relationships; he was a young adult trying to make a name for himself as a composer in the 80s. Larson would eventually enjoy critical acclaim and worldwide success for his later work, Rent, but only posthumously. He died days before his 35th birthday, one day before Rent’s first preview performance.

“Johnny wants to hide. Can he settle down and still not drown?”
- Johnny Can’t Decide from tick, tick…BOOM!

While this play resonates with young adults, it’s not for them alone. People of all ages—or anyone who’s ever heard that (dreadful) internal “tick…tick…tick…”—will find comfort in Larson’s award-winning musical. If you’ve ever been bombarded with news about friends getting married, getting promoted, having kids, buying homes–you are probably feeling that mounting pressure. Will you compromise or persevere? Cages or wings, which do you prefer? tick, tick…BOOM! is your safe space for processing all these feelings.

9 Works Theatrical’s restaging of the three-person musical will showcase the talents of young adult stars: Jef Flores and Khalil Ramos (alternating as Jon), Tanya Manalang and Kayla Rivera (alternating as Susan), and Vien King and Reb Atadero (alternating as Michael). Owing to the beauty of theater and the life experiences that each of the artists will bring to the table, the incredible cast is ready to tell this poignant story about growing old, growing up, growing anxious–and ultimately, growing together.

tick, tick…BOOM! is directed by Robbie Guevara, with Daniel Bartolome as musical director, JM Cabling as choreographer, Mio Infante as scenographer, Shakira Villa-Symes as lighting designer, Bam Tiongson as Sound Designer, Myrene Santos as hair and makeup designer, Marlito Ambrocio as technical director, Ian Cartalaba as costume supervisor, and JV Rabano as photographer.

Heading the production team is executive producer Santi Santamaria, with Anna Santamaria as operations & finance director, Charyl de Guzman as production manager, Jonjon Martin as PR manager, GM Hernandez as marketing manager, and Arma Bonilla as stage manager.

Tickets are selling out fast!
tick, tick…BOOM! will be showing all weekends of August 2023 at 3:00pm & 7:30pm on Saturdays & Sundays, at the CPR Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati. Tickets are now available via ticket2me.net. Grab yours while you can!

For partnerships & show buying inquiries, you may reach 9WT via info@9workstheatrical.com, 7586 7105 or 0917 554 5560.

For more updates, follow the official FB & YouTube pages (@9WorksTheatrical), Twitter, Instagram and TikTok (@9WTonline).  #ticktickBOOMmnl #9WorksTheatrical

tick, tick…BOOM! is brought to you by 9 Works Theatrical, together with CNN Philippines and BroadwayWorld as official media partners, H&M as official clothing partner, and Make-up designory as official make-up partner.

tick, tick…BOOM! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Read More

why you should not miss Musikal nAPO

It was an original musical production we've been waiting for. Robbie Guevara's first stint as a writer brought us to memory lane featuring the songs of APO Hiking Society and Eto Na! Musikal nAPO is something that will mesmerize and please your eyes and ears.

Practice your theater behavior because the songs will really take you singing along. Tap your feet and be ready to wiggle your hips with the famous OPM sound of the 70s and the bellbottoms and tight shirts and fun college get up. Talk about how our moms and dads lived during the times and I was giggling at how some things almost felt very familiar until the 80s.

📷by Leo Castillo

Musikal nAPO! is like a review of the life lessons that you'll agree on and made me miss the stuff that I had and experienced. Serg's Chocolate and Magnolia Ice Cream for example; how saying "P.I." (explicit) was taboo and someone will call you out for it. There are lots of values weaved in this musical like how each APO song is perfect for each scene. And you'll definitely say to yourself that you miss the old times and hope that you could time travel and experience them again.

Eto Na! Musikal nAPO! is a perfect production that will tackle about life as a child, a parent, a friend, a lover, a student and more so that any walks of life can easily relate to. It is also a celebration of the dynamic Filipino language and culture that will make people think and ask questions.

Catch Eto Na! Musikal nAPO! at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater this August. For tickets, call Ticketworld at 891-9999. #9WTMusikalnAPO

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More

The best things from the 70s relived in Eto na! Musikal nAPO!

It's good to hear stories from the people who lived from the 70s and 9 Works Theatrical will bring us to memory lane as they bring the music of the APO Hiking Society in the upcoming musical, Eto Na! Musikal nAPO this August.

cast of Eto Na! Musikal nAPO

Since this is a major throwback production, I've asked the the musical's creative team about what they miss in the 70s. Sab Jose thought that it was nice when people ought to really talk and meet each other even the absence of technology like how we do it today. Raul Montesa recalls that people were very active and they spend the time outside their homes and nobody gets sick. Director Robbie Guevara adds they would look for a place where they can chat as long as they want and play guitar and have a great time.

Hearing it from one of the APO Hiking Society trio, Mr. Jim Paredes relates that he misses men and women were gentlemen and ladies during the 70s: when seats are offered or help to someone that needs it and gain friends; when people got to talk about about ideas and ideals. Such values are slowly going down the drain and he believes that Eto Na! Musikal nAPO will help people to connect once again and be good to each other.

Eto Na! Musikal nAPO! tells the story of a group of friends in their college days who are joining a music contest and chronicles the things that would go in between. Friendships, relationships, studies and all that would make student life hard but bearable. Featuring the songs of APO Hiking Society, the musical promises to bring audiences, young and all, to sing-along to the tunes of Awit ng Barkada, Pumapatak na Naman ang Ulan, Di Na Natuto and more, and reminisce the period that many of us had.

Eto Na! Musikal nAPO! cast welcomes back actor Mark Bautista, GMA artist Rita Daniella, Jeff Flores, Peachy Atilano-Guevara, Sab Jose, and more.

Eto Na! Musikal nAPO is 9 Works Theatrical's offering on its 9th season and paves the way to 9WT's more of original Pinoy musicals. Runs from August 3-26, 2018 at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater. Directed by Robbie Guevara. Get your tickets at Ticketworld or call 891-9999.

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More

Theater Review: Himala is a blessing

Sandbox Collective's Himala: Isang Musikal is not just a revival of an iconic film but a blessing. I was able to watch on a preview last February 9 and it's like living in a piece of heaven with the talented cast of Himala.

I must say that I am not fully aware of the story of Himala until last night. Power Mac Spotlight Center transformed into Barangay Cupang giving it an immersive theater experience. The wonderful set of dry twigs and the sight of poverty through their barong-barongs reminds us that heaven is not all something comfortable and good. It includes hardships that desperation that the neighborhood in Cupang has experienced.

Getting not too technical with just lighting and accompanied by a piano on the side, the cast and ensembles showed power that left me speechless on my seat and attentively listening on every song and script delivered. Aicelle Santos leading the cast as Elsa has proved more of herself as a sensational siren. From Katy, to Ang Larawan, she has has acting on the right track and owned the Elsa role.

Elsa's neighbors and so-called "believers" earned my cringe for their hypocrisy and exploits to their blessings. Congrats neighbors for being so effective. Alongside with her co-cast members, Bituin Escalante (Nanay Saling), Kakki Teodoro (Nimia), David Ezra (Orly), Neomi Gonzales (Chayong), Sandino Martin (Pilo) and all of the members of the ensembles is a powerful acting and singing collection of great talent. No lapels, no mics, just their amazing vocals could be heard by the angels.

Final Scene - Himala Isang Musikal

The final scene was unforgettable. Even though it may leave a messy stage after every show, I was also in delight to see a real shower that will give Cupang hope.

And seeing it is as special as seeing the Superstar Nora Aunor in the flesh.

Cast of Himala Isang Musikal with Nora Aunor and Ricky Lee

Himala Isang Musikal is a story by Ricky Lee with songs and lyrics by Vincent De Jesus, directed by Ed Lacson Jr. It runs from February 10-March 4, 2018. For inquiries and tickets, contact 0917.5545560, 586.7105, sab@thesandboxcollective.com, or Ticketworld at 891.9999.

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More

A Christmas Carol 2017

When Globe Live's Joe Caliro mentioned that we should be making a new Christmas tradition, I thought, what else would be greater than all the family gatherings, carollings, parties, etc? I am pretty satisfied with what already is going on with Filipinos -- but then I saw 9 Works Theatrical's A Christmas Carol, now I believe that there should be more ways to celebrate Christmas.

Seeing it in front of the stage, I can clearly see everything that was happening. And I say, there's quite a lot. Note the special effects when Ebenezer Scrooge (Miguel Faustmann) was haunted by ghosts with Jacob Marley, and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come is something that I have never seen in previous production of A Christmas Carol.

From waltzes to tap dances and grand ballets, prepare for the spectacular show especially during the Fezziwig Christmas Ball. The grand party has a lot of surprises. But the whole show is a feast to the eyes and ears. The cast, costumes and everything there is in this production will be a constant reminder of Christmas to everyone.

And what is Christmas without the promise of snow inside the theater? Bring back a child in you and experience snow from the theater. A truly magical experience that will touch families and individuals alike.
Watch A Christmas Carol by 9 Works Theatrical and Globe Live until December 27 at the BGC Amphitheater. Also take the opportunity to help the families of fallen heroes in the Marawi Siege by buying a handmade parol for P200 and hang it on the Christmas tree at the theater. A Christmas Carol is

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More

A Christmas Carol brings more miracles this 2017

Don't miss another run of the highly-acclaimed "A Christmas Carol" by 9 Works Theatrical and Globe Live Entertainment. The show runs from December 7-27 at the Globe Iconic Theater in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

This Christmas, relive Charles Dickens' famous novel brought to life by our great actors lead by theater veteran, Miguel Faustmann as Ebenezer Scrooge who has done the role in countless performances. He assures us that he will give us a show apart from the previous ones that will make every theater experience special.

Joining the cast are theater stalwarts, Franco Laurel (Ghost of Christmas Past), Noel Rayos (Jacob Marley), and Tricia Canilao-Buser (Mrs. Cratchit). Theatre's golden boys Laurence Mossman (Young Ebenezer) and Arman Ferrer (Fred) also join the cast alongside Nico Dans (Ghost of Christmas Present), Rissey Reyes (Ghost of Christmas Future), Krystal Brimner (Grace Smythe), among many others.

Featuring Jaime Manahan-Yupangco and Elai Estrella, alternating as Tiny Tim, this Christmas musical is sure to warm everyone’s hearts. You got to love these kids that were asked what is the meaning of Christmas for them. It is my great delight that their answer didn't go far from knowing that Christmas is actually the birth of Jesus Christ.

It will be a more meaningful Christmas when you bring the whole family to see the show even on Christmas day. Spend the Christmas night with love, friendship, and values. Directed by Robbie Guevara together with Onyl Torres as assistant director, Daniel Bartolome as musical director, PJ Rebullida as choreographer & Yek Barlongay for additional tap choreography, Ed Lacson as set designer, Dong Calingacion as technical director, Myrene Santos as hair and makeup designer, and Ian Cartalaba as costume head.

Laurence Mossman, Miguel Faustmann and ensembles of A Christmas Carol

Franco Laurel with ensembles of A Christmas Carol

Cast and Creative Team of A Christmas Carol

Here is the schedule of the show:
December 7-9, 14-16, 21-22, 26-27 at 8:00pm
December 10 and 17 (Sundays) at 7:00pm
December 25 Christmas Show at 7:00pm.

Buy tickets at Ticketworld.com.ph or call 891-9999. For more information, you may follow 9 Works Theatrical or Globe and their official hashtags #TheMiracleWithin and #GlobeLive9WTACC.

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More

Newsies wows

Anybody slap my face if I say that 9 Works Theatrical and Globe Live's Newsies is fine. It is not. It is awesome! The latest production that is ongoing throughout all weekends of July is a spectacular show that makes Filipino talent comparable to touring big Broadway productions -- or even better. I say the latter.

Staged at the Globe Amphitheater in Bonifacio High Street, the set brings you to 1899 when all the things happened for our poor newsies (newspaper boys). See every event unfold when the rusty towers move and the backdrop projection are like pages of a newspaper. Then the newsies bring the stage to life with pure energy and powerful voices letting us hear their story and voicing out their rights and concerns as an employee. A very relatable issue that is also tackled up to this day. Their pirouettes and splits and jumps are to watch out for. The Newsies Training Ground really paid off with the skills showing the diversity and exceptional energy that is shared by the actors to the audience.

Give Gian Magdangal a warm comeback as Jack Kelly in Newsies. It seems just like yesterday when he played Danny Zuko in Grease and his leadership to a young group has turned out to something more relevant. Mickey Mouse has definitely gave a good amount of magic dust on him. Same goes to the Kings of New York, they have earned an audience acceptance as triple-threats in the theater industry and will make you ask for even more. Kudos to the whole production team, to director Robbie Guevara, and actors that will make us thankful as our eyes opened for our rights and equality as we enjoy a spectacular show.

And don't forget to get a souvenir program for this show!

Catch Newsies all Fridays to Sundays of July, until July 30, 8PM. Presented by Globe Live and 9 Works Theatrical.

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More

Extra! Extra! NEWSIES is hot off the press!

A new Disney musical gets on Philippine stage as Globe Live and 9 Works Theatrical bring Newsies on July 7 to 30 at the Globe Iconic Stage in BGC.

Bringing back one of our homegrown talents and a Disney guy himself, Gian Magdangal as Jack Kelly, together with a bunch of guys strutting the stage with songs based on the book about 1899 newsboys rallies in protest against rising distribution rates put forward by publishing giants Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst. From newsboys to activists, the musical dramatizes the David-versus-Goliath fight for social justice and better working conditions. See the members of the cast in the videos below:





Songs are composed by Alan Menken and brought to movement by PJ Rebullida using jazz and ballet movements that the cast have worked on with Training Grounds. Watch the webisode below:

In the previously held press conference at Ibiza Beach Club in BGC, they performed a few songs which also showcased excerpts of the hardcore choreography. Watch it here.

It's great to have Gian back into Philippine theater from a stint at Hong Kong Disneyland’s The Golden Mickeys and Universal Studios Japan. Joining him as part of the newsboys are Jef Flores (recent Gawad Buhay awardee for Outstanding Lead Actor for Tick, Tick…BOOM! ), Daniel Drilon (Secret Garden, Fun Home), Tory Cortez (Hansel and Gretel, A Christmas Carol), Luis Marcelo (Little Shop of Horrors), and Alex Diaz (Host & TV Personality, MYX VJ). Also in the cast are Danielle Chopin (Into the Woods, My Fair Lady), Greg Dulcie (The Wizard of Oz, Sweeney Todd), Pinky Marquez (The Wedding Singer, Beauty and the Beast), and Raymund Concepcion (Annie, The Little Mermaid).

Rounding up the cast are Franz Imperial, Ariel Reonal, Joni Galeste, Melissa Bell, Ian Ocampo, Ronelson Yadao, Erick Arenas, Jourdan Bartolome, Mark Anthony Grantos, Jim Ferrer, Chesko Rodriguez, Kendrick Ibasco, Anton Posadas, Stephen Viñas, Clark dela Riva, Jon Abella, MC dela Cruz, Vyen Villanueva and Jan Mayo.

Newsies will be staged at the Globe Iconic Store Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater, Bonifacio Global City on July 7-9, 14-16, 21-23 & 28-30, 2017 at 8:00pm.

For tickets and more information, go to go.globe.com.ph/newsies, or contact Ticketworld at 891.9999.

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More

Raise your lighters up for the final cast of American Idiot

This is going to be one helluva show!

9WT reveals the final set of the cast of American Idiot happening from June 24 - July 10 at the Globe Iconic Store, Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater, Taguig.

Mako Alonso is seen in Priscilla Queen of the Desert and in Rivalry: The Ateneo-La Salle Musical.

Ariel Reonal, who plays the Favorite Son, is a Miss Saigon (UK, Singapore, Hong Kong and Manila Tours) alumnus and also appeared in numerous productions in the country like in FAME (The Musical) Nick Piazza, Repertory Philippines 2004, Pilo in HIMALA The Musicale by Tanghalang Pilipino; Marty in DREAMGIRLS by Atlantis Productions 2003; Simon Zealotes in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR by Atlantis Productions 2000, RENT (Original Manila Cast) Steve/Squeegeeman as Roger, Rent Philippines Inc. 1999, as MIONG (Original Cast) General/Exile, Repertory Philippines 1998, EL FILIBUSTERISMO Juanito / Basilio, Tanghalang Pilipino 1997 / 1998 and ILUSTRADO (Ryan Cayabyab) Ensemble, Tanghalang Pilipino 1996 & 1998, among others.

Another rockstar, hailing from Rivermaya is Norby David. He was a bassist and vocalist in the band.

Nel Gomez, or Nelsito, is also a familiar face in the theater scene. Playing Tunny. He was seen in 9WT's Grease and also an instructor in Stage Camp. He also appeared in Saturday Night Fever and Piaf of Atlantis/ATEG. He also portrayed a role in Repertory's Disney's Camp Rock and more.

Yanah Laurel, is also defined as one of the prettiest faces in Philippine theater, joins the cast as Whatshername (funny name). She appeared in Atlantis Productions' Nine and Carrie.

Lastly, playing St. Jimmy is no other than Wolfgang band vocalist, Basti Artadi. Producing 8 albums throughout his rock career including the all-Tagalog, Ang Bagong Dugo Sa Lumang Ugat - Unang Kabanata. I guarantee that this is not just for theater goers but for rock fans as well.

For tickets and showbuying, you may contact 9 Works Theatrical at M +63917.554.5560 • T 586.7105 / 557.5860. You can follow updates via Twitter (9wtonline), Instagram (@9wtonline) and follow #Globe9WTAmericanIdiot.

Subscribe to my updates:

Read More