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.

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A review: 'night Mother

PETA's 50th season-ender might be far from their usual productions with musical endings, but 'Night Mother is a must watch for every one with a mother and for everyone who knows or might be suffering from depression. It is running at the PETA Theater Center until March 18. I have never seen so much relatable play like this one and PETA has achieved new level of awareness and understanding mental illness and suicidal attempts.

The 1.5-hour play sets in the simple home of Jessie (Eugene Domingo) and Thelma (Sherry Lara) that resembles much of our mothers' and grandmothers' homes in the 80s or earlier and I want to congratulate the set designer for bringing the sense of home to the audience. It has transported us to a place where good memories in contrary what Thelma and Jessie would be discussing throughout.

It's a strong exchange of dialogues that were affecting us in so many ways and levels. Thelma's simple and motherly reminders to Jessie are very touching, makes me want to cry when I remember similar words from my mother. When she tells some things that I may have forgotten, where to find them and what they are for. Jessie's lines on the other hand much resembles of me, sometimes when our parents get stubborn, we get impatient but still we have to control. Eugene Domingo and Sherry Lara made us love their characters and portrayed Jessie and Thelma very well. And I think that's a very familiar scene in all of us. But in spite of many shortcomings between a mother and a child, memories last but we still love each other no matter what. There will come a time that we will decide our own fate and leave them and in the end, we will resort to their care and company.
The real issue that needs to be addressed is Jessie's depression and that Thelma failed to stop Jessie's suicide episode. I brighten and gives us a learning that we should always be there for other people. That the power of conversation is very important in every relationship. It was great to see members of the Philippine Mental Health Org are there to educate us about mental illness. If you are in need of mental health support please call the 24/7 HOPELINE at (02) 804.4673; (0917) 558.4673 or 2919 (Toll Free for all Globe and TM subscribers).
'Night Mother runs until March 18. Directed by Melvin Lee, in memory of Director Soxie Topacio.

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Sing along with The Greatest Showman in SM Cinemas

I am a fan of The Greatest Showman for many three main reasons: THEATRICAL, MUSICAL, and HUGH JACKMAN. But when I saw it, I instantly also became a fan of the songs and especially Keala Settle belting out This is Me. I happen to be streaming the soundtrack featuring songs by Academy Award winning lyricists Benj Pasek and Justin Paul since and I couldn't miss a day without studying and memorizing the lyrics.

But fortunately, we can now all sing with Hugh Jackman, Zack Efron, Zendaya, Keala Settle while watching The Greatest Showman as SM Cinemas bring the sing-along version of the movie starting February 7 in select theaters. Follow the bouncing top hat for every hit song with intricate visuals and dance choreography following the rags to riches life of PT Barnum, the greatest showman and founder of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, and the beginning of show business.

The Greatest Showman also features Michelle Williams and her emotional Tightrope song and Rebecca Ferguson's Never Enough, sung by Loren Allred. Be inspired and Rewrite the Stars with Zac Efron and Zendaya.

Listen to the official soundtrack and see you at the movies!

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THE GREATEST SHOWMAN movie review

I expected a theatrical extravaganza in The Greatest Showman and it did not disappoint. Visually appealing and with a strong message of equality it conveys, The Greatest Showman is a must-watch for all -- for a good time, for a dose of musical theater, or something to ponder on.

The inspiration of the movie is a not unfamiliar with all of us. How a visionary made his dreams happen to be able to give a good life to people he loves and P.T. Barnum is an inspiration with his dedication in fulfilling his dreams and how he is as a father and husband, an artist and a businessman. No doubt Hugh Jackman fits perfectly for the role just as he puts on his red coat and top hat.

Songs are very heartfelt as if the cast gives every song message directly to you. The Greatest Show to start with prepared you for a fantastic show indeed. A whole line up of songs goes with the story line very well from start to finish. Never Enough is emotionally-triggering and a very strong This is Me gives high encouragement that you will bring until you go home. This Is Me deserves its Globe award and Oscar nod.

I also applaud the spectacular choreography of our unique characters displayed. Rewrite the Stars is a great sequence if we can see it live but you will enjoy most of the movie.

Zendaya and Zac Efron (Rewrite the Stars)

The Greatest Showman is showing January 31 in cinemas and Imax. Distributed by 20th Century Fox (Philippines).

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We're near the Devil's Sea!

The Philippines may be the first victim of an apocalyptic event unless Lara Croft solves the mystery of the disappearance of her father in the Pacific region. But as the movie puts it, the island is located somewhere off the coast of Japan where she will face a treacherous journey to her father's last destination armed only with her wit, bravery and faith.

An island located in the middle of the Devil's Sea where Lara Croft (Alicia Vikander) will solve the puzzle that can also save the human race. A map shows that it is just at the east of the Philippines. Here's a screenshot of the scene in 1:57 of the latest Tomb Raider trailer:

Philippine map shown distinctively while locating the Devil's Sea (1:57)

Watch the latest trailer of Tomb Raider below and also listen clearly to a very familiar tune in the background. Opening March 15 in theaters nationwide, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures (PH).


Tomb Raider also stars Dominic West (Money Monster, 300), Walton Goggins (The Hateful Eight, Django Unchained) and Daniel Wu (AMC’s Into the Badlands). Directed by Roar Uthaug (The Wave), with Oscar-winner Graham King (The Departed) producing under his GK Films banner.

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PEABO BRYSON headlines Love Rocks! concert at Resorts World Manila

Don't miss an incredible night with international balladeer Peabo Bryson as he performs his greatest hits and ushers in Valentine's Day at the Love Rocks concert on February 13, 2018, 8pm at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila. A fantastic evening of love and songs also featuring Philippines' very own Jenine Desiderio and hosted by J Michaels with a special tribute to Burt Bacharach's music by J Michael's band, directed by Maestro Danny Favis.

Hear once again LIVE our long-time time favorites, Tonight I Celebrate My Love For You, If Ever You're in My Arms Again and more as popularized during the 70s and 80s with duets with Roberta Flack, Natalie Cole, Melissa Manchester and Lea Salonga. A Grammy-award winner for two of the well-loved songs from Disney classics Beauty and the Beast with Celine Dion and A Whole New World with Regina Belle, gaining him worldwide popularity and strong fanbase.

The one-night only concert LOVE ROCKS! is a trademarked concept show that has had great international acclaim and success. Each show is hosted by J Michaels and features one or more Multi-Platinum and Grammy® headline artists. The J Michaels Band has served as backup band for the Love Rocks! concert series pairing world-class concert and touring musicians with incredible guest headliners. 2018 marks the 10th anniversary of Love Rocks! concerts, fans can look forward to multiple shows an more great artists in the coming months.

The Love Rocks! Concert is presented in cooperation with Grand Leisure Corporation and Events by WEG Inc.

Tickets are available now at all TicketWorld outlets, Resorts World Manila Box Office, and online at www.ticketworld.com.ph

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Off to a great spectacle with THE GREATEST SHOWMAN posters

When a visionary fulfills his dreams, great things happen. See the character poster of The Greatest Showman released by 20th Century Fox featuring Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zendaya, Zac Efron, and Rebecca Ferguson.

"This is Me" wins Best Original Song in the recent Golden Globes. Song written and composed by Academy Award winners from La La Land.

The Greatest Showman features powerful original music and songs that celebrates the birth of show business and the sense of wonder we feel when dreams come to life. Inspired by the ambition and imagination of P.T. Barnum, “The Greatest Showman” tells the story of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a mesmerizing spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.

Opens January 31 in Philippine theaters, distributed by 20th Century Fox (Philippines).

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