an unfamiliar night in La Cage

I was again a stranger getting inside Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium to see the rerun of 9 Works Theatrical's La Cage Aux Folles. Though I knew the music and acts that are in store for this classy, fabulous musical, I am still in awe on the great efforts that is put into this production.

Well, nothing basically changed. But getting inside the theater gives a new ambiance that really immerses us in a bar, the lights, the works. Aside from that, Mako Alonso, PJ Rebullida and Arnold Trinidad takes on the roles that we all love from the first production.

Mako Alonso as Francis / Cagelles

PJ Rebullida as Mercedes

Arnold Trinidad as Mercedes

And then the show begins. The more glittery costumes for our lead couple, Albin and Georg (Audie Gemora & Michael De Mesa) and especially the Cagelles, reflects light and color throughout the room, catching your attention. Instead, they open your senses for the whole show not only visually, but also your hearing and emotional senses.

Albin and Georg still has that romantic chemistry and it's as if you will never really recognize the actors in their roles. They had projected a very exceptional performance that also reflects to the wonderful energy with the rest of the cast. Steven Silva gets better and better with his acting and now he is more comfortable with his role. Noel Rayos even brightens up the audience as Jacob with his different characters. Check every costume change that he will provide. The Cagelles are still as energetic as before and should receive the applause they deserve for those exhausting dances and tight costume changes.

For me 9WT's La Cage deserves a special citation for showing different kind of passion in producing such a show. A simple congratulations would not be enough for me to give to the team. But every standing ovation that audience gives can also inspire other productions to continue giving magnificent shows. Wigs off to everyone.

La Cage Aux Folles runs until September 6. For tickets and inquiries call 0917-5545560, 586-7105, Ticketworld at 891-9999 or email info@9workstheatrical.com.

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Cagelles touch up for second run

As 9 Works Theatrical formally announces the return of La Cage Aux Folles, the Cagelles are now more glamorous in the new touch ups of the La Cage promos.

Georges (Michael De Mesa) preparing for the musical

Chantal (Chesko Rodriguez) in dangling beads 

Hanna (Dindo Divinagracia) adorns himself with a flowing wig

Notice also how the new logo looks more dazzling with glitters and glows more radiant. Are we about to see a more extravagant show? Let's find out when 9 Works Theatrical's La Cage Aux Folles runs from August 15 to September 6, 2015. As always, I'm sure that director Robbie Guevara cooks in more surprises. Also, I'm very very sure that each show will be a memorable night filled with fun and entertainment.

La Cage Aux Folles also feature stellar performances by Audie Gemora as Zaza, Steven Silva as Jean Michel, Raul Montesa, Sheila Francisco, Joni Galeste as Anne, Noel Rayos, Analin Bantug, Rafa Siguion-Reyna, Cheeno Macaraig, JP Basco, Randi De Guzman, Carlos Deriaga, James Stacey and Mara Javier. Are they bringing in new faces to the ensembles? Who knows.

9WT's La Cage Aux Folles plays at the RCBC Plaza, Ayala Avenue, Makati City. For tickets, call 0917-554-5560 or 586-7105 or TicketWorld at 891-9999 or email info@9workstheatrical.com.

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9WT's La Cage is a new standard to musicals

There are no regrets giving in to see 9 Works Theatrical's La Cage Aux Folles that opened late February. Though I am not able to welcome the cast personally during the press conference, seeing them on stage is quite a great opportunity. And it was also a pleasure to see up close seating in front. The musical is so funny, colorful and memorable for everyone who will see it.

A huge KUDOS to the cast and crew of this musical. I am almost lost for words trying to describe the whole thing. But one thing is for sure, La Cage Aux Folles is one musical you should not miss. The mystifying ensembles and the family values that go with it, you will forget that it is about homosexuals. Plus, there is also great hard work put into the whole musical that you can just sit there, relax, and enjoy. I can't tell which scene in the musical is my favorite part.

The whole theater is the stage. Mio Infante has put a lot of detail that puts you into the scenes itself. Wait until Michael De Mesa opens the show and you'll have a colorful night.

These actors had so much dedication with putting on their dancing heels, heavy dresses, waxing their body hair and putting a high pitch on their voices aside from the rehearsed songs. If you're not aware of the Les Cagelles true identities, you will be deceived -- what a difference Mac can make. Putting them all together could be a great workout that nobody could have ever imagined. Costumes are very fabulous as they glitter in every touch of light. It hypnotizes theater goers at every sway of the drag queens, their fancy moves and batting eyelashes.

Michael De Mesa and Audie Gemora also came very believable on stage. It's as if they are a real life couple with the lovers' teases. Plus you will never think of the actors as Audie and Michael. They portray as if they are really them, especially Audie that you think it is really Albin or Zaza. His rendition of "I Am What I Am" is deeply felt. Not only for those who experience identity crisis but for everyone who wants to defend themselves of what people think about them. Zaza's character came very strong in this one.

Michael De Mesa (George) and Audie Gemora (Albin/Zaza)

You'll also got to love Noel Rayos as Jacob aka the Butler which he prefers to be called The Maid. Sporting different costumes and with a fast shift in characters, he owns every scene he is in. Everybody is caught off guard at what will he project next.

Noel Rayos in different characters in 9WT's La Cage Aux Folles

All in all, La Cage Aux Folles by 9 Works Theatrical is not just another musical. It stands out to all hardships from the actors, the set and even to the people behind the scenes that put their efforts to this production. I enjoyed everything and highly recommend to everyone.

La Cage Aux Folles is directed by Robbie Guevarra and will play up to March 29 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium. Also stars Steven Silva as Jean-Michele, Missy Macuja-Elizalde as Anne, Raul Montesa and Sheila Francisco as the Dindons. For tickets, you may call 0917-5545560, 586-7105 or email 9WT at info@9workstheatrical.com.

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The complete dysfunctional family of 9WT's La Cage Aux Folles

Here is the final set of cast in 9 Works Theatrical's adaptation of the Broadway and Tony Award winning production La Cage Aux Folles. A mixture of veterans and rookies in theater and entertainment scenes, presenting you a great work in the performing arts.

Playing George and Albin are Michael De Mesa and Audie Gemora, the gay couple raising their son, Jean-Michel played by former Johnny Casino in 9WT's Grease, Steven Silva. What would they do if they learned that their son is about to marry a politician's daughter?

Would this conservative family accept their daughter's fiance's family? Raul Montesa is Edouard Dindon and Sheila Francisco is Marie Dindon. Their daughter is Anne alternately played by Missy Macuja Elizalde and Joni Galeste.

Joining in this musical comedy with a pink touch are Noel Rayos playing Jacob -- Albin's assistant and would rather call himself maid than a butler, and Analin Bantug playing Jacqueline, the owner of "Chez Jacqueline."

Noel Rayos as Jacob

Opening February 28 - March 29 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza, Makati City, La Cage Aux Folles is directed by Robbie Guevarra with 9 Works Theatrical's Managing Director and Executive Producer Santi Santamaria. Music with the 9Works Philharmonic Orchestra.

Ticket prices:
P2,300 Orchestra Center
P2,000 Orchestra Side & Loge Center
P1,900 Orchestra Center Zone 2 & Loge Rear
P1,500 Orchestra Side Zone 2 & Loge Side
P900 Balcony

For inquiries, contact 0917-5545560, 586-7105 or email us at info@9workstheatrical.com.

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Grease rerun!

Just two words to include in the title of this post. Privileged to see the come back of 9 Works Theatrical's Grease and it was guaranteed a new feel and totally different experience -- but the same fun and musicality remains with the combination of new and old cast members that will definitely bring you back to the most wonderful period of every student's life.

Top-billing the musical are Guji Lorenzana and Tippy Dos Santos who gave the younger and sweeter interpretation of Danny and Sandy. When generally, the whole cast were still close to the high school age, so that their takes on their characters are too close to what they feel. The new cast have internalized well. It's good to have Guji back into theater, and improved. Putting him in Grease has maximized his potential and he totally owned the role. Tippy likewise radiated in the stage for everyone with her fantastic rendition of Hopelessly Devoted to You and her even more amazing look towards the end of the show.

Photo from Happy Dos Santos Instagram Page.

Rizzo played by Antoinette Taus is very notable in this production. And would like to congratulate 9WT for getting her and her awesome talent in this show. Her voice fits perfectly to Rizzo's character and I think she got the #feels which made her more effective in the show. A definitely must-watch for all Greasers and fans of this lady.

Steven Silva, another 9WT newbie, won't disappoint as this run's Johnny Casino. He made a very wonderful intro in Grease's prom night and performance is indeed very high for Steven. The 9 Works newbies Gab Pangilinan, Alex Godinez, Nelsito Gomez are also great getting their own spotlights on Grease and I think they are definitely fit for the role.

With the fabulous sets and great memories of high school, Grease rerun is definitely a must-watch (again). More reason is to watch out for Frenchy's Teen Angel. We had JM Rodriguez and it was crazy! You'll have a better day with different Teen Angels each show. You'll have OJ Mariano, Franco Laurel, Michael De Mesa, Bo Cerrudo, and more.

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Why GREASE rerun is good for your health?

The students of Rydell High are back and they welcome freshies in the field. 9 Works Theatrical's rerun of Grease welcomes Guji Lorenzana, Tippy Dos Santos, Steven Silva and Antoinette Taus as Danny, Sandy, Johnny and Rizzo. Along with Gabriela Pangilinan, Alexandra Godinez, Marvin Ong and Nelsito Gomez. And they have really neat things to share about joining Grease rerun.

For the cast, experiencing high school again through Grease is a very good opportunity and an enjoyable look back of what transpired during the best days of the teenage life, for everybody and us audience alike. They feel so alive at the presence of everybody. Steven Silva and Antoinette Taus also shared that being in the theater again is a blessing -- it has taught them the good discipline in  the productions and TV industry where they have been known from.

Guji Lorenzana is somewhat surprised since he is not used to singing and dancing that much unlike now in Grease. He is even proud that he lost weight with the dancing. Now I'm thinking of joining them next time as an ensemble. (Joke!)

Setting aside the comparison between their take on roles over Gian Magdangal's presentation, Guji promises that he will not disappoint the audience and mostly his fans. He looks up to Gian's great presentation but he would like everyone that he will own his character during this run.

For Tippy Dos Santos, being the youngest in the cast, is at the verge of experiencing both worlds, in Grease and school life. Recalling events in high school are still fresh to her and taking on the role of Sandy, she thinks would be perfect for her.

If there should be some point of their lives that deserve a rerun, most of them would say their high school experiences. The lessons learned from this point of their lives would be a great factor on their attack on the character. Director Robbie Guevara promises that this would be a totally different show, from character takes and choreography will be more fun.

This thought-provoking question had everyone's eyes on Antoinette Taus -- as she would entertain another rerun for love. Most of us would have thought of some events of our lives and would have concealed of the thought of Grease but she delivered a good point. Everybody would ask for a second chance at anything and a chance to rise up again.

Grease rerun presented by 9 Works Theatrical will play at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium from November 15 to December 7. For tickets, call 586-7105, 0917-5545560 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

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Who's new and who's back on Grease?

The 2013-PHILSTAGE-Gawad-Buhay-Award-for-Outstanding-Production-of-Existing-Material-for-a-Musical winner Grease by 9 Works Theatrical completes its line up of artists in the comeback of the said musical. And it composes newbies and I'm also excited on the comeback of some of the original 9WT Grease cast.

(CW from top left: Gabriela Pangilinan, Alexandra Godinez, Marvin Ong, Nelsito Gomez)

Gabriela Pangilinan plays Chacha, the wonderful dancing queen of Rydell high. Alexandra Godinez as charming Marty, Nelsito Gomez as Sonny and Marvin Ong as Doody.

And here's the amazing cast coming back riding Grease Lightning.

(L-R from top left: Rafa Siguion Reyna, Peachy Atilano, Reb Atadero, Sarah Facuri, Angela Padilla, Sab Jose, Vince Lim, James Stacey, Harold Cruz)

Fresh from Celebrity Dance Battle's finals, Rafa Siguion Reyna will show more of his dance moves on stage as Kenickie. Peachy Atilano as Frenchy, dreaming with us of the next Teen Angel. Reb Atadero as Roger, Sarah Facuri as Jan, Angela Padilla as Miss Lynch, Sab Jose as Patty Simcox, Vince Lim alternates Marvin Ong as Doody, James Stacey as Vince Fontaine and Harold Cruz as Eugene. They all join Steven Silva, Tippy Dos Santos, Guji Lorenzana and Antoinette Taus in the rerun of #GreaseManila this coming November 15. - December 7, 2014 at the RCBC Plaza Makati City.

For ticket inquires call 0917-5545560 586-7105 or email info@9workstheatrical.com

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STEVEN SILVA does theatrical debut in Grease!

It's been quite a while that I haven't seen Steven Silva doing shows in his home network GMA. But I wish him the best of luck joining the big-time theater scene in 9 Works Theatrical's Grease as Johnny Casino! Yes, he will play the part in this year's rerun of Grease and getting the groove and suiting up with the leather jackets with matching heavy hair pomade!

Winning the last season of reality-talent search Starstruck, Steven is very much excited to be in theater and some say he did very well in auditions and gives a very good delivery of his lines. I also heard great reviews about him giving great performances in other musicals he was previously involved in like Boston Musical. Now I'm raising my expectations and slowly becoming a fan of this fresh talent.

The students of Rydell High are back kicking the dust and getting the dancing shoes with our most-loved songs in the production winning the 2013 PHILSTAGE Gawad Buhay Award for Outstanding Production of Existing Material for a Musical. I am so looking forward to this run!

I also heard from a source that there will be a new Danny Zuko and Betty Rizzo! I am confident that this will be joined by ABS-CBN and GMA stars! Will be revealing it soon! But wait are you also excited who the Teen Angels would be? Do you have a guess? I'm very sure that they have a lot of surprises every time they do a season. That's what I love about  this company; they give surprises that nobody has guessed about and there's even no hints whatsoever!

Grease is directed by Robbie Guevara, playing November 15-December 7 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City. For tickets, contact Ticketworld at 891-9999.

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