"Liwanag sa Dilim," the latest original Filipino musical, brings the evocative songs of Rico Blanco to life on stage. This production weaves Blanco's music, particularly during his time as the frontman of Rivermaya, into a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, resilience, and revolution.
Synopsis
The story centers on Elesi, an orphan determined to uncover the mysteries of his past. Alongside his steadfast ally, Cris, Elesi embarks on a journey that challenges societal norms and ignites a justice movement. As they confront oppressive forces, deep connections form, leading to a transformative revolution that reshapes their world.
Cast and Characters
The musical boasts a talented ensemble, with lead roles portrayed by actors alternating performances:
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Elesi: Khalil Ramos and Anthony Rosaldo share the role of the determined orphan. Ramos, known for his versatility in acting and singing, expressed admiration for Blanco's songwriting, stating, "His songs are just really genius."
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Cris: The character of Cris, Elesi's loyal companion, is alternately played by Vien King and CJ Navato.
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Lead Female Role: Alexa Ilacad and Nicole Omillo alternate in a pivotal female role, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
The ensemble also includes performers such as Denzel Chang and Lucylle Tan, contributing to the musical's dynamic and concert-like atmosphere.
Creative Team
The production is helmed by director and writer Robbie Guevara, co-founder of 9 Works Theatrical. Guevara previously directed "Eto Na! Musikal nAPO!," another original Filipino jukebox musical. His vision for "Liwanag sa Dilim" was conceptualized in 2018, with plans for a 2020 release, but was postponed due to the pandemic.
Convincing Rico Blanco to feature his songs in the musical was a significant milestone for the production team. Blanco's involvement has been hands-on, attending rehearsals and providing insights to ensure the authenticity of the musical interpretation of his work.
Musical Highlights
Audiences can anticipate powerful renditions of Blanco's hits, seamlessly integrated into the storyline. Songs like "Elesi" and "Liwanag sa Dilim" not only serve as titles but also as thematic anchors, reflecting the characters' struggles and aspirations. The musical direction aims to honor the original compositions while offering fresh arrangements that resonate with contemporary theatergoers.
Production Notes
The artistic team includes Guelan Varela-Luarca as the adapter and director, with assistance from Rafael Jimenez. Their collaborative efforts focus on delivering a production that balances narrative depth with musical spectacle.
Audience Reception
Since its opening, "Liwanag sa Dilim" has garnered positive reviews for its innovative storytelling and the cast's compelling performances. The fusion of Blanco's music with a poignant narrative has struck a chord with audiences, making it a must-see production in the current theater season.
"Liwanag sa Dilim" runs from March 7 to April 13, 2025. Grab your tickets now and be part of this electrifying theatrical experience!
