Theater Review: Sandbox Collective’s Side Show is a Stunning Celebration of Uniqueness and Unity

Sandbox Collective’s bold new staging of Side Show is not just a musical—it’s an experience. From the moment you enter the theater, you’re transported into the world of 1930s sideshows, thanks to an immersive setup where actors engage directly with the audience even before the curtain rises. It’s intimate, strange, and mesmerizing—just the way Side Show is meant to be.

First staged on Broadway in 1997, Side Show is a cult-favorite musical with music by Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Bill Russell. It’s based on the true story of conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, who were famed performers in vaudeville and circus circuits. The musical explores not just their pursuit of fame and love, but the price of being different in a world obsessed with normalcy. The 2014 revival brought a reimagined script and deeper character development—and Sandbox’s take builds beautifully on that, making it feel both grand and personal.

At the heart of this production are Molly Langley and Krystal Kane as Violet and Daisy. Their chemistry is magnetic, and their vocal blend is hauntingly beautiful. Whether they’re harmonizing in power ballads or navigating the emotional complexity of being physically bound yet emotionally distinct, the duo commands the stage with grace and grit.

On the romantic front, CJ Navato and Vien King bring charm and vulnerability to the roles of Buddy and Terry. Their performances add layers of tenderness and longing that make the sisters’ desires even more relatable. It’s hard not to swoon over their sincerity and suave delivery.

Vien King, Krystal Kane, Molly Langley and CJ Navato

CJ Navato

The ensemble is nothing short of electrifying. Each cast member embodies the spirit of the show’s “freaks” with depth and dignity, rejecting caricature in favor of humanity. Standouts include Jon Santos as the enigmatic Boss, delivering a chilling portrayal of exploitation cloaked in charisma, and Joshua Cabiladas as Jake, whose commanding presence and rich vocals leave a lasting impact.

More than just a visual and musical treat, Side Show is a poignant reflection on difference, identity, and sisterhood. Sandbox Collective reminds us that being “different” is not something to hide, but something to celebrate. In a world that often seeks conformity, Side Show dares us to embrace our uniqueness—and each other—with open hearts.

This production is a triumph. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the spectacle until August 17 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Theater in Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati City.

Read More

Christine Allado Comes Home in Rockwell’s Premiere of The Bodyguard The Musical

If you’re a fan of West End blockbusters, powerhouse vocals, and unforgettable love stories, then clear your calendar—Christine Allado is returning to Manila, and she’s bringing the magic with her.

The internationally acclaimed Filipina artist, best known for her breakout role in Hamilton’s original West End cast and her performances with Andrea Bocelli, is set to play Rachel Marron in The Bodyguard The Musical. Yes, the iconic role made famous by Whitney Houston—now reimagined for the stage with Christine’s signature grace, strength, and vocal brilliance.

Even more exciting? This marks the first-ever theatrical production at the elegant Proscenium Theater at Rockwell—a space built for cultural milestones and intimate spectacle. Expect a night of lush storytelling, cinematic tension, and that timeless soundtrack: “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” and “I Will Always Love You”—live and larger than life.

Christine’s homecoming is more than a casting—it’s a cultural moment. From In The Heights to The Prince of Egypt, Carousel, and the upcoming Jo: Little Women The Musical in London, she’s graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages. Now, she’s back to light up Manila’s theater scene with heart, elegance, and world-class artistry.

As the spotlight turns toward Christine, anticipation builds for her leading man—Frank Farmer—with the full cast reveal just around the corner.

The Bodyguard The Musical opens soon at the Proscenium Theater. Tickets are now available at premier.ticketworld.com.ph.

Follow @christineallado and @prosceniumtheater for exclusive content, cast updates, and a behind-the-scenes look at what’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year.

Manila, this is your standing ovation moment. Don’t miss it.

Read More

Introducing the cast of DEAR EVAN HANSEN!

Meet the cast of the internationally acclaimed musical DEAR EVAN HANSEN!

The Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical is finally arriving in Manila this September at The Theatre at Solaire.

Ellis Kirk and Sonny Monaghan as Evan Hansen

The international touring company is led by Ellis Kirk as Evan Hansen. Kirk made his professional debut in Dear Evan Hansen on London’s West End, and has since been recognized for his emotionally nuanced performance in the role. Sonny Monaghan serves as the Alternate Evan Hansen. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music, Monaghan has been praised for his versatility, previously appearing in Spring Awakening and Into the Woods.

Rebecca McKinnis

Joining him is Rebecca McKinnis as Heidi Hansen, who previously starred as Margaret New in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (West End) and played roles in We Will Rock You and Mamma Mia!. McKinnis earned acclaim for her moving portrayal of Heidi in the West End production of Dear Evan Hansen.

Zoë Athena

Zoë Athena steps into the role of Zoe Murphy. A rising star in musical theatre, Athena has appeared in Rent and Bring It On: The Musical, with standout performances praised for her vocal strength and stage presence.

Helen Anker

Helen Anker takes on the role of Cynthia Murphy. An accomplished actress, Anker was previously seen in the international Asian tour of Mamma Mia! as Tanya. Her credits also include Chicago, Guys and Dolls, and Curtains in London and on tour.

Hal Fowler

Hal Fowler appears as Larry Murphy. A veteran of the British stage and screen, Fowler originated the role of Javert in Les Misérables in the West End and has appeared in productions such as The Secret Garden, Martin Guerre, and Twelfth Night at the National Theatre.

Rhys Hopkins

Rhys Hopkins plays Connor Murphy. Hopkins has trained at Guildford School of Acting and recently appeared in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and Spring Awakening, where his intense performances have drawn critical notice.

Tom Dickerson

Tom Dickerson joins as Jared Kleinman. His previous roles include appearances in The Book of Mormon, Nativity! The Musical, and Hairspray (UK Tour), showcasing his comedic timing and vocal range.

Olivia-Faith Kamau

Olivia-Faith Kamau stars as Alana Beck. A dynamic performer, Kamau has previously been part of Legally Blonde and Six: The Musical (UK tours), known for her bright stage energy and contemporary appeal.

Rounding out the company are ensemble members Jake Halsey-Jones (Hamilton, West End), Sheri Lineham (Bat Out of Hell), Joseph Peacock (The Band, Saturday Night Fever), Annie Southall (Fame, Hairspray), and Ashlyn Weekes, a newcomer noted for her powerful vocals and fresh talent.

Joseph Peacock, Sheri Lineham, Jake Halsey-Jones

Annie Southall and Ashlyn Weekes

With an award-winning score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman) and a deeply moving book by Steven Levenson, DEAR EVAN HANSEN is a groundbreaking musical about coming of age and finding connection in an often disconnected world.

Don’t miss out on this must-see musical of the season — now extended until 5 October!

Book your tickets now at TicketWorld.

Read More

9 Works Theatrical announces "The Bodyguard: The Musical"

Fresh off the success of the rock musical Liwanag sa Dilim, 9 Works Theatrical proudly announces its next major production—The Bodyguard: The Musical. Yes, it’s the thrilling stage adaptation of the iconic 1992 film that starred Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner.

At the heart of the story is Rachel Marron, a chart-topping pop superstar whose life is upended by a mysterious stalker. Reluctantly, she agrees to hire Frank Farmer, a former Secret Service agent, to protect her. What begins as a tense and professional relationship soon deepens as the two navigate danger, trust, and undeniable chemistry—all set to a powerful soundtrack of Whitney Houston’s greatest hits.

Audiences can look forward to electrifying live performances of classics such as:

🎤 I Will Always Love You
🎤 I Have Nothing
🎤 Run to You
🎤 Queen of the Night
🎤 I'm Every Woman
🎤 So Emotional
🎤 Saving All My Love for You
🎤 How Will I Know
🎤 One Moment in Time
…and more!

Directed by Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome, The Bodyguard promises a heart-pounding, music-filled experience like no other.

Casting will be announced soon.

This production also marks a milestone as the first to be staged in September at the brand-new Proscenium Theater at Rockwell, Makati.

Follow @prosceniumtheater and @9wtonline for updates and ticket announcements.

Read More

Jolina Magdangal Makes Her Musical Theater Debut in PETA’s “Walang Aray”

Pop icon Jolina Magdangal takes on a bold new stage as she makes her much-anticipated musical theater debut in PETA’s hit comedy musical Walang Aray. Known for her iconic roles in film, television, and music, Magdangal brings her signature charm to the role of the quirky and flamboyant Doña Juana in the award-winning production. This marks a new milestone in her celebrated career, as she joins an acclaimed cast for the show’s highly awaited rerun from August 29 to October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater Center. Her entry into the theater scene adds a fresh layer of excitement to the crowd-favorite musical, which returns sharper, funnier, and more powerful than ever.

Jolina Magdangal as Dona Juana

Adding even more star power and heart to the production is singer-songwriter and stage veteran Ice Seguerra, who plays Lucas—the loyal and witty sidekick of Tenyong. With Magdangal and Seguerra sharing the stage, Walang Aray promises to deliver not just laughs but also a nostalgic and delightful theatrical experience that blends pop culture flair with PETA’s signature brand of socially resonant storytelling.

Ice Seguerra as Lucas

Tickets for the show will be available starting June 28 via ticket2me.net.

An exclusive and discounted pre-sale for Metrobank credit cardholders will run from June 28 until July 1, 2025. The public sale starts on July 2, 2025. Ticket prices are as follows: P2,500 (VIP Front and VIP Elevated), P2,000 (Orchestra Center and Balcony Center), P1,500 (Orchestra Side), and P1,200 (Balcony Side).

Walang Aray is produced by PETA in partnership with Indie.Go Media, together with Metrobank.

For partnerships and show-buying inquiries, contact Mitch Go at 0917-539-1112 or email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com. For more information about Walang Aray, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater.

Read More

Side Show: The Musical Announces Full Company

After mounting critically-acclaimed productions of Little Shop of Horrors: A Bloodthirsty Musical Comedy and Next to Normal, The Sandbox Collective continues its 2025 season with SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL this July 2025.

Set in 1930s America, SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is a fictional depiction of the life and times of real-life conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, who found fame and notoriety in the vaudeville circuit in 1920 and 1930s.

Featuring a stellar mix of Philippine theater’s veterans and rising stars, the show is set to captivate audiences with a brand new staging of the original 1997 version of SIDE SHOW.

THE HILTON TWINS
Alternating in the role of the conjoined twins, Violet and Daisy Hilton, are powerhouse pairs Tanya Manalang and Marynor Madamesila, and Krystal Kane and Molly Langley.

Tanya Manalang and Marynor Madamesila

The award-winning and global artist, Tanya Manalang stars as Violet Hilton in Side Show. She played Kim in ‘Miss Saigon’ (West End, London) and originated the role of Joy in ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo.’ She is a Best Actress winner (Aliw, GEMS), and has starred in ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘The King and I,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ ‘tick, tick… Boom!,’ ‘All Out of Love,’ and more.

A proud alumna of UP Diliman’s Theatre Arts program, Marynor Madamesila stars alongside Tanya as Daisy Hilton. She is a singer, mover, and multimedia actor. Some of her recent credits include: ‘Walang Aray,’ ‘Sandosenang Sapatos,’ ‘Batang Rizal,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ and 'Buruguduystunstugudunstuy.’ Marynor is a Gawad Buhay and Aliw Award nominee for Best Lead Actress. On screen, Marynor has appeared in ‘Pamilya Ko,’ ‘Love in 40 Days,’ ‘Oh, Mando!’ and ‘Beauty and the Boss.’

Molly Langley and Krystal Kane

Molly Langley takes the stage as Violet Hilton in Side Show. Trained at Performers College in the UK, Molly’s theater credits include ‘Spring Awakening,’ ‘The Wild Party,’ and most recently ‘RENT’ as Mimi. She is a seasoned international performer with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Lines. She was recently part of the sixth season of the singing competition ‘The Clash’ where she made it to the final Top 6.

Krystal Kane stars alongside Molly as Daisy Hilton. Krystal has been doing professional theater since she was 10 years old. Her previous productions include ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘Spring Awakening,’ and ‘Once On This Island.’ In 2019, Krystal was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Musical at the first Philippine Leaf Awards, as well as Best Actress in a Musical Show by Broadwayworld Philippines. Krystal also served as the costumes stylist for The Sandbox Collective’s ‘Lungs,’ ‘Every Brilliant Thing,’ ‘Bawat Bonggang Bagay,’ and ‘Tiny Beautiful Things.

THE BOSS
Stepping into the role of The Boss is comedian, host, and TV and film actor Jon Santos. Last seen on stage in The Sandbox Collective’s sold-out runs of ‘Bawat Bonggang Bagay.’ Jon was also seen in productions such as ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,’ ‘Bituing Walang Ningning,’ and ‘Ako si Josephine.’ Outside of theater, Jon is one of the mainstay judges of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines.

Jon Santos as The Boss

TERRY CONNOR
Alternating in the role of the press agent and Daisy’s love interest, Terry Conor, are theater leading men Reb Atadero and CJ Navato.

Reb Atadero and CJ Navato

Reb Atadero is an award-winning actor, singer, host, voice actor, director, and content creator. He is Gawad Buhay Awardee for his portrayal of Michael in ‘tick, tick… Boom!’ and has received nominations for his performances in ‘The Graduate,’ ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,’ ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Lungs,’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ Beyond the stage, Reb is known for his online educational content, popularizing the catchphrase “BOOM! Now You Know!”, which has since expanded into his very own podcast, ‘BOOM! Now We Know!,’ streaming on Spotify.

With over 20 years in the industry, CJ Navato has captured the hearts of many on the big screen, TV, and now including theater. He rose to fame as a mainstay in ABS-CBN’s ‘Goin’ Bulilit’ and has since appeared in various shows like ‘Luv U,’ ‘Doc Ricky,’ ‘Pedia,’ and ‘Dirty Linen.’ He was last seen on stage in ‘Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical,’ ‘One More Chance The Musical,’ and ‘Charot!’.

BUDDY FOSTER
Sharing the role of the aspiring musician and Violet’s love interest, Buddy Foster, are leading men, Vien King and Tim Pavino.

Vien King and Tim Pavino

Marking a versatile and influential decade in the arts, Vien King has earned the title Best Actor (Gawad Buhay, LEAF Awards) for ‘Passion.’ He starred in ‘Rama Hari,’ ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!,’ and most recently in ‘Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical.’ He also appeared in MMFF hits, ‘Partners in Crime’ and ‘Love at First Stream.’ Vien has performed internationally with Disney in Concert, and now tours Asia with The Jet Theaters.

Tim Pavino is a BroadwayWorld Awardee and a two-time Aliw Awards winner. Tim’s theater experiences include ‘Miong,’ ‘The Great Christmas Cookie Bake-off,’ ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,’ ‘Matilda,’ and ‘Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.’ He has also performed with prestigious orchestras such as the BYU Chamber Orchestra, ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, Auburn Symphony Orchestra, and the Manila Symphony Orchestra, and appeared on The Voice of the Philippines under Team Lea Salonga.

JAKE
Theater mainstays Marvin Ong and Joshua Cabiladas alternate in the role of Jake.

Marvin Ong and Joshua Cabiladas

Singer-songwriter Marvin Ong earned a Gawad Buhay Award for his performance in ‘Sweeney Todd.’ He also received a citation for his role in ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.’ Marvin also played key roles in different productions such as ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,’ ‘Si Juan Tamad, ang Diyablo, at ang Limang Milyong Boto,’ ‘The Sound of Music,' and ‘Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang.’ As a singer, Marvin has released two albums under Viva Records, the first of which earned him a certified gold record status and an Aliw Award nomination.

Joshua Cabiladas is an acclaimed Filipino actor, singer, and improviser with over a decade of experience in theater, film, and music. He was most recently seen in ‘Delia D.,’ as well as in ‘Jepoy and the Magic Circle,’ ‘Lam-Ang,’ ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Himala: Isang Musikal,’ among others. He reprised his role in the film adaptation of ‘Isang Himala,’ and had notable performances in ‘Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 3,’ ‘Ang Pangarap Kong Holdap,’ ‘Kapatiran,’ ‘Ploy,’ ‘Florante at Laura,’ and ‘Bula sa Langit.’

THE ENSEMBLE
Completing the company are the ensemble members who are set to take the stage as the sideshow curiosities. The Sandbox Collective is delighted to introduce the incredible ensemble comprised of: Arion Sanchez, Chan Rabutazo, Fay Castro, Daniel Wesley, Ian Hermogenes, Mikee Baskiñas, Pamela Imperial, Pappel, Raflesia Bravo, Red Nuestro, Reine Paisley, and Rhap Salazar.

Ensemble

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL will be directed by The Sandbox Collective’s managing artistic director Toff de Venecia, with Ejay Yatco serving as musical director. Rounding out the artistic team will be Mark Dalacat as assistant director and set designer, Carlos Siongco as costume designer, Gabo Tolentino as lighting designer, JM Cabling as choreographer, and Colin Dancel as photographer.

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL opens on July 26, 2025 and will run until August 16, 2025 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets and Show Buying information will be released at a later date. #SideShowMNL

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is licensed through Concord Theatricals.

For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok. You may visit their website www.thesandboxco.com and social media platforms: Facebook Instagram Tiktok

Read More

Review: "Pilato" – A Faith-Based Musical That Challenges Perspectives

"Pilato," the new offering from The Corner Studio, is an original Filipino musical that invites audiences to re-examine the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ through the eyes of Pontius Pilate. Running from April 4 to 13 at the PETA Theater Center, this production provides a fresh perspective on a well-known biblical narrative.

Curtain Call for Pilato, cast with writer and director Eldrin Veloso

The musical traces Pilate's journey from his early ambitions in Rome to his appointment as prefect of Judea, a province rife with political and religious unrest. This setting serves as a backdrop for Pilate's moral and political struggles, offering audiences a nuanced portrayal of his character.

One of the musical's standout features is its thoughtfully composed score, which seamlessly blends traditional Jewish musical elements. This fusion not only enriches the narrative but also immerses the audience in the cultural and historical context of the story.

Jerome Ferguson as Pilato

Cast of Pilato, Noel Rayos as Hesus

Beyond its musical achievements, Pilato delves into themes of truth and power, resonating with contemporary societal issues. The production challenges viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and the complexities of decision-making in a politically charged environment. The play aims to unravel the mystery of truth's many faces, a particularly pertinent exploration in today's post-truth era.

Featuring a talented ensemble cast led by Jerome Ferguson as Pilato, Onyl Torres as Josepo and Noel Rayos as Hesus, Pilato offers a compelling and thought-provoking theatrical experience. Its innovative storytelling and rich musical compositions make it a must-see production this season.

Don’t miss Pilato starting today, April 4 at 8pm for its world premiere and on April 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13 at 3pm and 8pm, at the PETA Theater Center.

Tickets are now available at pilato.helixpay.com.

Read More

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

Auditions NOW OPEN for PETA's One More Chance, The Musical

Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) much-awaited production for 2024, “One More Chance, the Musical,” featuring the music of the massively popular and award-winning Filipino nine-piece band, Ben&Ben, announces the casting call for auditions starting Monday, November 20, 2024.

Interested applicants who want to audition will have the chance of a lifetime to portray the roles of Popoy, Basha, the Thursday Barkada, and other ensemble characters from the cult-classic movie.

Applicants must submit 16 bars, or 1 stanza and 1 chorus, of the best part of any Ben&Ben or OPM song, along with 4 bars of choreography to any contemporary modern music. The full set of requirements can be found at this link: https://tinyurl.com/OMCauds.

The deadline for all casting submissions will be November 26 at 11:59 p.m. Live auditions at the PETA Theater Center will follow from December 4–5.

“One More Chance, the Musical” is slated to open in April 2024 at the PETA Theater Center.

For more information on this much-awaited musical, follow PETA Theater on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @petatheater. For partnerships, email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com. For questions regarding auditions, email petaonemorechancetm@gmail.com.

Read More

Parokya Ni Edgar musical casting calls

After the successful run of Ang Huling El Bimbo in August, Full House Theater company immediately revealed that the next OPM musical will feature the songs of Eraserheads' band contemporary, Parokya Ni Edgar. It was revealed today that the musical will be titled BURUGUDUYSTUNSTUGUDUNSTUY: ANG PAROKYA NI EDGAR MUSICAL.

Director Dexter Martinez Santos has posted casting call for the roles and ensemble with an invitation from PNE front man, Chito Miranda.

Interested talents may send their audition videos starting tomorrow, September 12 - October 1, 2023 via PNE2024@gmail.com. Bagsakan na!

Read More

RAMA, HARI, all set for September 15, 16, 22 and 23

RAMA, HARI, the highly-acclaimed Filipino rock opera ballet, returns to the stage this September. The production holds the prestige of being the only collaboration that features the masterful works of five National Artists, Alice Reyes for Direction and Choreography, Ryan Cayabyab for Music, Salvador Bernal for Production Design, and Bienvenido Lumbera for the lyrics and libretto with English Translations by Rolando Tinio. Presented by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Metropolitan Theater, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and with the generous support of Birch Tree Adult Boost, the production features artists from CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines with performances running at the Metropolitan Theater on September 15-16, and at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, September 22-23, 2023.

Inspired by the ancient Sanskrit epic, Ramayana, the ballet tells of the adventures of Rama, prince and incarnation of the god Vishnu, who comes down to earth to save the world from Ravana, the most powerful of demons and in time falls in love with Sita, daughter of the king of Mithila, Janaka, and eventually marries her. The evil Ravana attempts to tear the two apart only to find himself defeated and his demonic plans thwarted.

Quite coincidentally, in the late 70s and early 80s a new musical genre was born, referred to as OPM, or Original Pilipino Music; and herein lies the uniqueness in the adaptation of the legend having the distinction of being the first OPM music and dance theater masterpiece.

Alice Reyes took the challenge of weaving the dancers and singers within the music score, instead of separating them, creating a wholistic staging. Reyes uses diverse elements derived from Asian theater such as the shadow play, various hand props, and Indian movements transposed to choreography in the modern dance genre.

The music of Ryan Cayabyab is an intermingling of various Southeast Asian musical influences rather than South Asian (Indian) with a dash of Western influence as heard in the monkey chant. The mixed influences of his music altogether “ Filipinized the score,” as he refers to his work as an “ eclectic piece,” a style that has eventually become his musical signature.

National Artists - Alice Reyes and Ryan Cayabyab

Complementing the music is the libretto of Bienvenido Lumbera, whose script has varying levels: an elevated diction for the protagonist and Filipino slang for the demons. The theatrical reason being that “the intrusion of a very contemporary diction could jar the audience into perceiving that the ancient epic of India is also “now” and “Filipino.”’ An English translation projected during the performance is the work of Rolando Tinio.

Salvador Bernal’s set designs further outline his stylized ornamented Oriental costumes.

RAMA, HARI was last re-staged in 2012 and won 14 Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards. It was intended to be re-staged once more in 2020 but was canceled due to the pandemic lockdown. This year, the long-awaited re-staging of RAMA, HARI will open in September with excited expectations.

This year, the creative team searched for new talents to join the cast and take on some of the production’s iconic singing roles.

The cast includes musical theater star, Arman Ferrer in the lead role of Rama with Vien King alternating. They will perform alongside dancers Ronelson Yadao and Ejay Arisola.

Arman Ferrer and Vien King as Rama

Karylle Tatlonghari, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, and fresh-face talent Nica Tupas alternate in the role of Rama’s beloved wife, Sita, with dance counterparts, Monica Gana, and Katrene San Miguel.

Karylle, Shiela Valderama-Martinez and Nica Tupas as Sita

Rak of Aegis Star, Poppert Bernadas, takes on the role of the demon King Ravana, alternating with Los Angeles-based musical theater actor Mathew San Jose making his Manila debut, and Jonel Mojica. Dancing the role are Richardson Yadao and Tim Cabrera.

Poppert Bernadas, Mathew San Jose and Jonel Mojica as King Ravana

Theater icon Audie Gemora takes on the role of King Dasaratha. Also joining the cast are Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana in the dual role of King Dasaratha's Third Wife, Kaikeyi, and the Golden Doe, while Miah Canton, and Raflesia Bravo take on the dual role of Kaikeyi's evil adviser, Kooni, and Ravana's demon sister Soorpanakha.

Paw Castillo and Jon Abella do double duty as Monkey Army General, Hanuman, and Rama’s brother Lakshmana.

The showing of this grand epic is a timely presentation for the first show of ARDP after its celebration of its first anniversary last July 23. Starting with a press conference hosted by a heritage restaurant, Milky Way, which opened its doors in 1950 serving memorable dishes that have been relished by at least three generations of Filipinos. Keeping with the theme of RAMA, HARI, an Indian legend, Kashmir Restaurant, established in 1975, will also be coming on as a sponsor. Kashmir is now owned by Leon Araneta, son of Gemma Cruz Araneta, the country’s first Miss International in 1964. Both Ms. Araneta and Ms. Reyes were classmates at Maryknoll College where both are honored as Outstanding Alumnae.

Altogether, RAMA, HARI is indeed a celebration on many levels and truly an extreme reason for not missing the show.

RAMA, HARI is presented by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Metropolitan Theater, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and with the generous support of Birch Tree Adult Boost. It features the artists of Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) and the CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program (PASP), with dance trainees from Guang Ming College, Philippine High School for the Arts, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and other independent performers.

SHOW SCHEDULE:
September 15, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Metropolitan Theater
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*

September 22, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater*
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater**

*With live music performed by The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth
**Evening Performance Sponsored by Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp.

Read More