Battling Hollywood Giants: GLADYS REYES in "The Heart of Music"

Got to watch the movie and musical entitled "The Heart of Music" starring prime actress Gladys Reyes, together with the very talented singer-actors Robert Sena, Isay Alvarez, Angel Guardian, 80's heart throb Rey PJ Abellana, Ms. Marissa Sanchez, dance couple Jopay Paguia, Joshua Zamora, and a throng of new child actors in the mix..

It's a very light-hearted story of a woman who happened to change the lives of a family using the power of love, singing and music.There are also several scenes where they teach life lessons about family, relationships, building dreams, aspirations, and the harsh realities of raising children. 

It had the right touch of Filipino humor, culture, and as Ms. Gladys put it, it was a dream role for her. She's been doing dramas for most of her acting life and one of her bucketlist items was to do a musical. She prepared for this by old school Karaoke style, but also involved a voice coach since it would really need execution that wasn't so familiar to her as a primetime drama actress.

 

Despite its shortcomings (albeit a few), it gave most of its spirit to how people could learn a thing or two about family, of having good manners, things that would fit be watched by children. I heard a lot of feedback from those who got to watch the screening that this would be perfect to show this to kids who are under the Department of Education (Elementary Schools), and I totally agree. It does make sense since it has little elements that they could learn from, and it'll be quite entertaining as a medium because it is after all filled with music and singing, done by some of the most talented folks in theater, and PH entertainment. 

Here's the fun mediacon on video, please enjoy! 

This shows on December 10 in cinemas nationwide! And as Ms. Gladys said, this could beat those big Hollywood movies, see if it does on theaters! This is Directed by Paolo Bertola and written by Mario Gatdula Alaman (who also did the music).

Ready to Make Miracles Happen: ISANG HIMALA Hits Theaters on December 25th for MMFF 2024

This film was on my list since I've heard of it. Surely, if you're a fan of the original film starring the one and only Superstar Ms. Nora Aunor in the 80's called HIMALA, this musical film called "ISANG HIMALA" would give you the same feels, but even more chills. This is the handy work of famed writer National Artist Ricky Lee and music by Vincent De Jesus. This is directed by Pepe Diokno and is officially an entry to the Metro Manila Film Fest 2024 who's also celebrating their 50th Anniversary. 

I've known Aicelle Santos for a few years now. It would be an understatement to call her A VERY TALENTED SINGER because I feel she's more than that. Her character Elsa who hails from a town called Cupang saw an apparition and began doing miracles with people. There's bound to be trouble with that because everyone would need to get healed and make things happen with that. Instead of getting better religious belief, they began fan service for the healer and Elsa wasn't going to take it. So in a nutshell it'll be the same story, but what will make this totally different is how they would tell it through music. For those who don't know, this has already been made into a musical (on stage), but there will be more things to offer now that they're doing the musical on the silver screen. Aicelle's voice will surely give you chills, but hold up, there's more to expect in this film!

Though there's Aicelle, she also has Bituin Escalante, Floyd Tena, David Ezra, Neomi Gonzales, Kakki Teodoro, Vic Robinson, Joann Co and an ensemble cast (hello Ivan Panganiban!) eager to tell this story. It's definitely not a one woman show, and with these powerful FILIPINO voices spun together, it's going to be a masterpiece waiting to happen.

Much of these folks may have not been seen on movies or TV, but they've got years of experience in theater which they'll be bringing to the table. They'll prove once again that pinoy singers reign supreme when it comes to singing, and this isn't even the karaoke type people fear in contests around the world. 

 

 

Ricky Lee says "I feel this is a tribute to the 1982 version we did in the past, when I met Vincent, I was glad it was being interpreted in different mediums. She (Nora Aunor) also will have participation in this film but you would need to watch it."

Pepe Diokno says "I fell in love when I watched the film, and the musical was the most powerful material on theater and I thought about it long after watching it. 42 years after watching it, I think it needs to be revisited, the difference is it's more emotional because of the songs."

Bituin Escalante adds "I never imagined I could be a mother, it's a family affair for me when my sister was cast in 2018, this is himaLOVE."

Aicelle adds "Back in 2018, Nora Aunor watched us on stage and I remember she told us how it was something that made her remember the shoot in 1982. She almost cried, and I've got proof of it. It was during the RAK of Aegis party when Sir Vincent approached me and told me I could do Elsa. I was taken aback because I saw the concert and how big the role is. I've had personal miracles, my brother myocardium issues, I prayed for him, and he opened his eyes. My Mom stopped crying, I really believe in miracles, this film just shows how we all have miracles of our own. There will be one on December 25. I think we have something to offer, it has historical and social content. We hope people get to watch it, especially since it is the only musical in the entries this year. I am more excited because it is hard to think of pressure, we enjoyed doing it so whatever it becomes, we welcome it."

Vince says "In 2003, Soxy Topacio asked me to work on a project with Ricky Lee, I wasn't crazy to say no. Things just come, the whole production is just a miracle for us including the MMFF 2024 nomination. The new music is originally piano but we made it into an orchestra, but it's now a little rock opera ish. The set actually fits the music, it is gritty and fierce."

Buckle up and go wear your Sunday outfits because "ISANG HIMALA" will hit theaters on December 25. Don't be afraid to sing a long with your friends and family, bring them along to the miracle that is "ISANG HIMALA", the official entry of Kapitol Films and UXS Inc. for the 50th Anniversary of the Metro Manila Film Festival.

PETA Plus and STAR MAGIC Stage TABING ILOG The Musical This November

Well loved ABSCBN series "Tabing Ilog" will once again reprise the musical version of their show at the PETA theater in Quezon City. This is different from the 2020 version of Teatro Kapamilya, so do expect an entire re-telling of the story by director Phil Noble. This is written by Eljay Deldoc and will have a different take on both the storyline and music that talks about relationships, love, friendship.

Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) Director Beng Santos-Cabangon says "It hasn't been a year when we worked with Star Magic doing Walang Aray, and now we are coming together to make sure artists are equipped with the best set of skills doing live at the PETA theater. It has been a continuing tradition, as it is a different time, but it's so nice to bring in a show in a coming of age series. I hope this brings forward how art and culture develops, this is a happy collaboration. Thanks for being here today!"

Direk Lauren Dyogi says "Maraming salamat to Direk Phil and Vincent to everyone who made this possible. This will be watched by more people, to hopefully talk about the issues of the new generation. We are excited to see Tabing Ilog the Musical on October!"

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The run will begin on November 10, 2023 up until December 17.If you want to buy shows, call or email them via 09176373655 or tabingilogthemusical@gmail.com. You can also get tickets via KTX.PH (your ultimate key to various experiences online!) as it's all there!

ALEXA ILACAD, KD ESTRADA, Ensemble Cast Tells Story of HOPE, LOVE in Funny Musical "Walang Aray"

When word got out that Star Magic artists Alexa Ilacad and KD Estrada was venturing into theater, I was so happy to see them spreading their wings to try something different. Even with years of experience on workshops, TV and Movies, this was no ordinary feat as it is unfamiliar territory. The stage certainly asks for a different skill set especially for a new material like "WALANG ARAY!". 

 I watched with gusto last February 14th. It was a special screening on Valentine's day. PETA has certainly done a lot of hit shows in this joint but the pandemic has really made the facility go through hardships since they couldn't do a show. It was a proper comeback, an all original musical which tells the lives and love story of Tenyong and Julia. Alexa already had a solo number in the first few minutes which required powerful vocals from the Kapamilya actress, by any standards, she really did good. Theater requires a bit of strength, over acting, exaggeration so the people in the back experience the same show as with the people in the front. They exhausted establishing who she was, and their relationship. If I may, KD Estrada felt a little like a diesel engine that started to warm up. There are serious talk, but all of it was executed it with good comedic timing.

 The play was based off "Walang Sugat" a Severino Reyes sarsuela told in a modern and funny way so it does strap itself to tell the revolutionary story and see to it that current, modern day comedy in a Filipino setting take the spotlight. Entertaining is an understatement, because you'll be surprised about the small quirks they inserted in each scene. The play takes a little over 2 hours to do but they made sure it wouldn't get boring in each scene. Much of the ensemble cast had their own time to shine, from their parents, the Friars, the other man, the house help, the fan girls, they got to play along with the audience without veering off the romantic angle they all needed to tell. Alexa took this by the neck and made the show hers. I've never felt so proud to see how she's become. She completely changed imho, and having this as part of her repertoire just screams she can do more. KD on the other hand used his charm much of his time in the musical, so try not to fall in love with him while he's in separate acts.

 

 For the KDLex fans there (much like me) that I've spent hours updating on Twitter, there's certainly more content I've left out on the platform so you could have your moment to enjoy in the show starting today. There's a reason why there's a sold out crowd here.

 

 If you haven't bought a ticket yet, you may get them via ticketworld.com.ph and see how it's funny, love story would make you agree it's fine to fall in love. Make sure you take the trip to Quezon City and watch PETA's Walang Aray on it's last few dates. This is directed by Ian Segarra and music is by Vince Lim, The fun choreography is also done by Gio Gahol, which he made really fun and interactive. KDLex will be appearing on 8PM shows on Feb.17-18, 24-25, Mar. 4, April 14-16, 21-23 and April 28. They have alternates Gio Gahol and Marynor Madamesila doing the other dates, both seasoned theater actors that can do justice to Tenyong and Julia's role.

 

 

This would be a dream for any KDLex fan, go watch it for them, and the love story they will tell.

Hitting Close to Home: Garrett Bolden Takes on MISS SAIGON in Guam

This particular achievement is something that hits close to home with Kapuso artist Garrett Bolden, The man who has succeeded to get a flourishing career in singing on The Clash, several GMA shows, here and abroad is now going to play the role of John Thomas, Chris' best friend in hit musical Miss Saigon.

He auditioned for this role and sent a video performance of Bui Doi, which means "A Dust of Life", a term used for babies born in Vietnam who have fathers in US Army/Navy/Airforce service. This wasn't something he expected to happen but once he got a call, he did several auditions and got the role later on. For those who don't know, Garrett Bolden is also a son of a GI, sadly, his Father and Step Mom passed, but glad he now has communication with his siblings that could tell him about their lives. 

 "When I looked back at my audition, I thought I wasn't going to get the role. When they told me I got it, I was nervous, this is a dream for me. First off, thank you for spending time with me today. You have all been part of my journey, our kapuso here and in Guam. For now I'll be doing a single that will be released soon on GMA Music, you can download Pwede Pa Ba on streaming sites. Let's see each other soon!"

Here's a part of the interview we had with him this afternoon:

Congratulations Garrett Bolden! Break a leg in September when the musical starts. He's leaving August 5 for rehearsals and this will surely change his life. This surely hits close to home with him, and I hope his story inspires more people.

Julie Anne San Jose is LIMITLESS

Music encompasses location, religion, almost anything in the world. It brings people closer, it takes us to a journey even without stepping foot out of our homes and is... limitless.

One of GMA's prized singer and artists, Julie Anne San Jose embarks on finding herself in the regions less traveled in the country. Watch her in this musical trilogy called LIMITLESS.

Julie says "This all started when Direk Paolo Valenciano and I had a conversation and asked if we could do a concert. I had a concept in mind, Synergy and GMA wanted to promote tourism, places in the Philippines and reconnect with people across the archipelago. It just came to a point when we didn't know yet what project to call this, is this a concert or movie, we had so much brainstorming done. When it was presented to me, Paolo thought he misses interaction, this pandemic put us through a lot of changes especially in our industry. Artists had to express ourselves through art and different mediums, I also wanted to offer something different, I loved the concept hence this trilogy, do it in different locations in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and discover new things about myself and this country. I am so thankful to have been able to be given an opportunity to do this. It's also my first time to do something like this, and it's worth it! We haven't really shot much of the trilogy, but we'll do it. I myself have been surprised at what I saw, at the places I've never been to and I'm excited to show what it looks like here. You'll see culture, traditions, things that you see in history books and do it in real life. You'll feel their warmth, the opportunity to go there was really awesome! We want to reconnect, we want to inspire, hopefully through my music they would feel that you can be happy. I am excited for you to see all these. When this was pitched to me, it was like having a panic attack, I felt I really wanted this, it was perfect for me because I was preoccupied with things when I travel for work and just go back home, but here, I go to different places, I enjoyed this so much because it didn't feel like work. It's like we're putting on record what we felt and experienced, we waited for a long time for this project, we felt we needed it, it was like a break from the city and it was so nice there!"

 

If you opt for the VIP tickets, you can get Breathe Heal Rise shirts that will come with your tickets. Tickets for this particular show can be purchased on GMANetwork.com/synergy (and also the answers to your questions) so register early and get one.

PETA's Rak of Aegis Presented by PLDT Home Fibr

Tomorrow is a nice day to just lounge around and see RAK OF AEGIS. I've watched in in PETA Theater a couple times and every instance I do, I feel like it's a new show. Since the pandemic hit, it's been a little difficult for productions to stage these shows because they needed to limit audience in physical events like that. This time, they did it online (July 31, August 1, August 7, August 8) so you've got about 2 days left for the staging this year.

I'm watching it tomorrow via Premium Video on Demand service of Ticket2Me for only Php 1,000. It's a lot cheaper than tickets I bought in PETA a few years back. Thanks to PLDT HOME because they're one of the sponsors of the show #PLDTHomeForYourArts.

I'm excited! If you want to watch the show, visit ticket2me.net and get your tickets. There's one tomorrow and on the 8th so don't miss it!

Ticket2Me Launches New Ticketing and Video Platform

My first encounter with Ticket2Me was about a little over 2 years ago when I watched a musical in PETA here in Quezon City. Back then, they were still in their infancy but I could tell they've handled online ticket sales quite nicely. It was fast, easy to use, and secure. I got my taste of shows and could get tickets mighty fast as soon as they're listed on the app and platforms.

As you might have guessed, they're bound to be heavily affected by the closures of entertainment areas and theatres as this pandemic didn't spare any business. True enough, they had to transform their business model, innovate to survive. It was in March 2020 wherein they started the lockdown period, and it earmarked efforts by Ticket2Me and their Founder/CEO Darwin Mariano to cooperate with the Kaya Natin! Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership and find ways to aid the country’s health sector frontliners. They started a huge fundraising campaign and worked with the Office of Vice President Leni Robredo in the hopes of raising funds to supply personal protective equipment and food and care packages for these health workers. In just a span of a few days they got to raise millions surpassing their goal by a mile and got to help thousands of people and mobilize help where it's needed, a noble gesture indeed.

Ticket2Me then also started the Open House campaign which they did together with Artist Welfare Project, Philstage, SPIT MNL, Third World Improv and the Theater Actor’s Guild to benefit of the performing arts community which also got heavily affected by the COVID19 outbreak. It was one of 20 they did with different organizations including one for displaced film and performing arts professionals plus funds to build emergency quarantine facilities in Metro Manila, a tough hot spot for the dreaded virus.

Recently, they also catered to the demand of online events. Adapting to the new normal meant they also need to launch their own pay gated video platform so they can hold concerts, theatrical productions, workshops and more. They also launched Dok2Me, a patient-doctor platform so they too would be able to do online consultation. They will also start production of their own online series called Boys' Lockdown come this September. 

With over 11,000 combined cash and online payment options throughout the country, Ticket2Me is achieving its goal to be one of the largest ticketing and events tech company. They can help you manage your transitions to online processes. Download it off the App Store or Google Play now or visit their site Ticket2Me.net to try it out and find more information about them.

Sounds good.

 

DAMASO Shows On Theaters November 20

This November 20 is pretty special as Regis Films and Reality Entertainment join forces to bring you a film about songs, heartache, love, controversy and realizations about who Damaso is.

Mom Confiado says "This also in involves the struggle of directors and writers, people who work behind the scenes. Joven Tan does great work in plotting the stories."

The film discusses a lot of similarities about things that happened in the past and connect it to current situations. 

EJ Falcon wanted to play his favorite character Elias, he was so ecstatic to actually get the role.

Vina Morales plays crazy woman Sisa and shows how she loved her kids so much. This is a musical so expect good things from one of the country's strong performers. Since this is a historical and musical movie, it would be a good thing for people to learn about the novel of Jose Rizal.

This is a story built on a writer named Fernando Damaso and how he tried to bring to life El Filibusterismo’s most controversial personalities such as Padre Damaso, Crisostomo Ibarra, Maria Clara, Sisa, and a lot more. They would also be played by an ensemble cast which includes Arnel Ignacio in the lead role, Nyoy Volante, Marlo Mortel, Ejay Falcon, Ms. Aiko Melendez, Jin Macapagal, Riva Quenery, Leo Martinez, Ariel Rivera, Irma Adlawan, Lou Veloso, Ketchup Eusebio, Luke Conde, Mon Confiado, Arlene Mulach, Allan Paule and a whole lot more.

This will dive into the lives of Crisostomo Ibarra and Maria Clara, how they sacrificed themselves for the family, land and country.

This is Directed by Joven Tan and again, will be showing on theaters this November 20.

Derrick Monasterio Prepares for RAK OF AEGIS Stint

If you haven't watched Rak of Aegis yet, this might be a good time to do that. Kapuso hunk Derrick Monasterio just landed the role of Tolits in the musical and he's raring to perform at the PETA Theater in Quezon City.

Derrick is no stranger to singing (album and shows to boot) and the caliber of talent in the musical is a bit daunting, but he did the deed and auditioned for it. He wasn't too confident because when he did the short audition, he was basically told that they will call him (a bit of an excuse sometimes to nicely say no in job interviews) but he was surprised when they called back and said they will have him play the role.

Previous actors who have done this have been raved by critics, he's ready for it and promises he'll do his best (did it well according to Twitter noise this week) so if you're looking for a different take on Rak of Aegis, this might be a good month to watch it. Repeat watchers included.

Here is our interview with Derrick during a blogcon by Artist Center.

Go get them tickets now!

BINONDO A Tsinoy Musical

Rebecca Shangkuan Chuaunsu

When Madame Rebecca Shangkuan Chuaunsu went to China to trace her roots, she stumbled upon the story of a Chinese professor who told them about his greatest love and heartbreak. It takes them to the oldest Chinatown in the world, our very own BINONDO in Manila, Philippines.

I've been i n BINONDO quite a few times over the years and I like how it shows the Tsinoy culture, the delectable food choices, the nice olden buildings and its people. When I heard it was being done as a musical, I've had a pretty good idea how it would look like. In my mind it would look and feel that way too, but I watched this show - it had me crying towards the end of the story, I expected less, they have indeed given me more.

It started with a prayer, not required but it shows how deeply rooted Christianity is in the Philippines

The orchestra was phenomenal, I would choose the sets a few rows after the front ones because audio wise, I couldn't hear the voices as I was too near. I was seated beside playwright and famous writer Ricky Lee.

Albeit some creative freedom to make this for the stage, I didn't mind at all. They introduced us to the love story of Lily Dela Rosa and Ah Tiong. Lily is a lounge singer whilst Ah Tiong is a scholar who did his phD in the US, spent his vacation in BINONDO for two weeks finding himself falling in love with Lily before he went back to Beijing. The story revolves around an era where Mao meets Marcos, victims of situations they did not have any control with, what they were sure only of what was they love each other. I don't want to spoil the whole story for you so I'll concentrate on the actors performances because there are a lot of them that should be lauded.

The Binondo Arch with the moon in the background

Choreography was on point, thanks to Douglas Nierras and Powerdance

Costumes had hits and misses

The ensemble cast who played many roles, all were essential, although took some attention, provided entertaining comedy in some serious and tough times. The hits and misses we're just in the costumes as if we are going to talk about period clothing. The 70's should have stayed 70's, and the Chinese should have stayed Chinese, and not like French clowns which reminds me of some of the pieces here. This is a big production, upscale audiences could see the runs on panty hose, some sloppy adhesives on the microphone which would take away a lot of the actors look. I was worried about that. It demands so much talent and passion, they gave that solidly though, highly commendable.

During this show, lead actor David Ezra played An Tiong, I am a fan now. He took a while to warm up to the character.

This is also Carla Guevarra Laforteza as Lily, obviously an experienced actress

Noel Rayos as Carlos, I could see his veins come out of his neck while singing, that's passion right there.

David had real great pipes, you could hear him sing even on the back row

They had love scenes, I enjoyed that of course

He had kissing scenes, a lot more than Arman Ferrer according to the press I watched with that evening. Good job buddy!

Ima Castro is Ima Castro, world class!

Jasmine was okay. Played by Mariella Laurel.

Ruby was outstanding, no matter how short that stint is, she made a mark. 

I had a wide lens on my ASUS Zenfone5Q so it was easy to capture the whole stage even if I was in the front row

BINONDO would be so good for Tsinoys and people who would like to see and feel love, have their hearts broken, hope, disappointment, and all the feelings in between. Congratulations to Rebecca Chuaunsu Film Production for a job well done on this original material, this was just awesome, sophisticated, full fo feelings and playful. 

You may watch the show in it's last 5 runs. Binondo, A Tsinoy Musical happens this July 6 Fri- 8pm (carla / david / floyd), July 7 Sat- 3pm (carla / david / noel),  July 7 Sat- 8pm (shiela / arman / floyd), July 8 Sun- 3pm (shiela / arman / noel), July 8 Sun- 8pm (carla / david / floyd). It's worth to watch, I enjoyed it so much I may invite a few people on Friday to watch it with me. 

It's sensational and beautiful, some flaws but a good story and interpretation. Watch it at The THEATER at Solaire in Pasay City.

KUMAGCOW

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