ALMOST, MAINE is a mythical place, owing no real geographic reference except to the human heart.

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It is cold bleak landscapes, difficult to live in, and even harder to endure, but somehow the people that inhabit this place still manage to fill it with warmth, love, friendship and hope. It is their emotional journey that makes this place, located in the loneliest and most solitary corners of our hearts, still a place worth living.

Written by John Cariani, ALMOST, MAINE is one of those endearing plays that captures your imagination almost immediately, and never let’s go. With 19 characters played by a cast of only four people, it is most definitely an actor's piece. Two men and two women playing a host of complex characters is a daunting task indeed, and after several rounds of auditions and readings, the actors were finally found.

In the end, Reb Atadero (The Graduate, The Horse And His Boy) Caisa Borromeo (The Secret Garden, Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady), Natalie Everett (The Secret Garden, The Game's Afoot) and Jamie Wilson (Run For Your Wife, The Bridges of Madison County) were chosen to take up the acting chores.

All veterans of Repertory Philippines, the excitement at being cast in ALMOST, MAINE quickly overshadowed the hard work that would soon follow.

In the director's chair, another Rep veteran takes the helm. Always an artist of incredible vision, Bart Guingona (4000 Miles, The Normal Heart) has never been one to do a play as it is written, and has put his own twists and turns on this wonderful material. 

With stage design by Baby Imperial and Coco Anne, lighting by John Batalla, sound design by Jethro Joaquin and costumes by Marta Lovina, ALMOST, MAINE promises to be a strong offering in Repertory Philippines' 2016 season. ALMOST, MAINE opens at the Onstage Theater in Greenbelt One, Makati on February 19th.

Repertory Philippines adapts Secret Garden for a new generation

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Repertory Philippines is set to showcase another musical production; now of Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon’s adaptation of the classic story The Secret Garden. Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the story revolves around the lives of two abandoned youngsters Mary Lennox and Colin Craven who, through the power of love, begin to transform their spoiled and selfish ways for the better. The show runs simultaneously with Rep’s staging of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Rep’s version is anticipated to entertain audiences with a magical score and fascinating choreography but it shouldn't be missed largely because of the amazing young talent set to play the spirited main characters of the story. Playing the mischievous Mary Lennox are 12-year-old Ashlee Factor and 9-year-old Ginger Karganilla. Between them, they have already starred in five stage productions. Not only is Ashlee already playing a role in Rep’s production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, but she also played one of the lead characters of the theater production house’s adaptation of Scrooge. While Ginger took part in playing characters in Resorts World Manila’s Cinderella the Musical and The King & I.

As for the very headstrong Colin Craven, the role will be played by 11-year-old Daniel Drilon, 10-year-old Albert Silos, and 11-year-old Noel Comia. Not to be outshined by their female counterparts, the boys also have an impressive list of titles behind them. Apart from playing roles in Rep’s Scrooge, Pinocchio, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Noel had a role in Kids Acts Philippines’ Hua Mulan which earned him the Best Child Performer Award at the 27th Aliw Awards. Albert’s background includes roles in Resorts World Manila’s King & I and Cinderella and in Gantimpala Theater’s Kanser the Musical. While Daniel, despite having his professional debut just last year, has had years of intensive training in the performing arts which landed him lead roles in Rep’s Pinocchio and Scrooge.

With their extensive experience in theater arts and months of preparing for the role, the cast is set to bring the story of Secret Garden and its characters to life. “We like to perform to make the audience happy,” explains Daniel--a statement that resounded with the entire cast. Come opening day on November 20, that’s what they plan to do.

With director Anton Juan leading them, the entire production is sure to enthrall audiences no matter what age. Together with the story’s beautiful message, no doubt the show will be a hit. “Secret Garden has a really nice moral lesson, the music is catchy, and they should watch it because they will learn a lot,” shares Albert of the experience people should expect from the show.

The Secret Garden will be staged from November 20 to December 20, 2015 at the Onstage Theater in Greenbelt 1, Makati City. Ticket prices range from P500 to P1,000. For more details on the play, call Repertory Philippines at 843-3570 and book tickets through TicketWorld at 891-9999 or visit their website at www.ticketworld.com.ph.

“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” all set for a move-over engagement run on July 3

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Due to insistent public clamor, Manila’s newest theater group Dalanghita Productions, proudly brings back the highly-acclaimed “KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY THE MUSICAL” in a move-over engagement beginning July 3 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” revolves story of two sisters named MELY and VIVA who both yearn to fulfill their dreams. Their sibling relationship and rivalry becomes more complicated due to an unsettled past and a budding romance, all in the context of an ongoing war between the superhero and supervillain teams. Being a maid is tough enough, but when Mely lands a job under a group of superheroes, she steps up to the unique challenge for the sake of her family. The musical takes us through the journey of the characters as each tries to find his/her place in the world where superheroes and supervillains exist. 

Based from Carlo Vergara’s one-act play and graphic novel of the same title, “ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY ” will once again prove how can an original Filipino musical combine comedy, drama, romance, action, deception, confessions, superheroes, supervillains, family and a maid in one fantastic show. 

The cast of “KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY” boasts of the most talented and highly-respected artists coming from the theater, television and film industry. Topbilled to play the various roles are Bituin Escalante and Frenchie Dy (Mely – maid of Puwersa Pilipinas), Kim Molina and Natasha Cabrera (Viva – Mely’s younger sister), Markki Stroem and Hans Eckstein (Leading Man – newest member of Puwersa Pilipinas), Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and Astarte Abraham (Madre De Dios – leader of Puwersa Pilipinas).

Lending support are the multi-faceted actors from Manila’s different theater companies namely include May Bayot (Nanay – Mely and Viva’s mother), Giannina Ocampo (Nena Babushka), Caisa Borromeo (Windang Woman), Chesko Rodriguez (Popoy Pusakal), Jef Flores (Bazooka Man), Nar Cabico and Domi Espejo (Senyor Blangko – leader of Kayumanggilas), Red Nuestro (Maracas Marko), Red Concepcion and Joshua Cabiladas (Itak-Atak), Elliot Eustacio (Jeryc Sans Rival), Mikoy Morales and Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Henyotic).

The ensemble is composed of Kakki Teodoro, Raflesia Bravo, Jem Baldisimo, Juancho Escoto, Miguel Ocampo, Francis Benjamin Jorvina, Alejandro Santos and Brian Sy. 

The artistic and creative teams of “Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” are as follows: Carlo Vergara (Creator and Writer), Vincent de Jesus (Music and Lyrics), Chris Martinez (Director), Ejay Yatco (Musical Director) Mara Marasigan (Assistant Director), Tuxqs Rutaquio (Production Designer), John Batalla (Lighting Designer and Technical Director), Jethro Joaquin (Sound Designer), Nancy Crowe (Choreographer). 

The production team is composed of Ansis Aldrich Tan Sy, Pertee Briñas and Claudia Fernandez (Producers), John Aries Alcayaga (Stage Manager), Ayam Eckstein and Ria Pangilinan (Production Managers), Julius Martin Lunar and Kim Mendoza (Assistant Stage Managers), Toots Tolentino (Publicist), Prodbook PH (Social Media Manager), Chester Ng (Photography).

“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” is set to open on July 3 and will run for three weekends until July 23, 2014. The show starts promptly at 8 p.m. (Friday-Satiurday). Matinee shows (Saturday-Sunday) start at 3 p.m. 

All performances are at ONSTAGE, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

For bulk reservations, show buys, and inquiries, call or text at mobile number 0998-5311389 or send email to dalanghitaproductions@gmail.com. For tickets, please call Ticketworld at 891-9999 or via http://www.ticketworld.com.ph

Connect to Dalanghita Productions online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DalanghitaProductions

www.facebook.com/LeadingLadyTheMusical

Twitter: @dalanghitaprod

Instagram: @dalanghitaprod

Repertory Philippines launches Run For Your Wife

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As part of its 2015 lineup, Repertory Philippines launches Run For Your Wife, a sexy comedy written by Ray Cooney. Since its launch in 1983 at London’s West End, it had a successful nine year run in the UK. After that, the show has been staged most notably in New York, Paris, Stockholm, and Manila.

Run For Your Wife trails John Smith, a taxi driver in London who has two wives: one in Streatham and another in Wimbledon. After he gets mugged and winds up in the hospital, the police department from each district calls Mrs. Smith: Mary Smith and Barbara Smith.

The show has been praised for its hilarious storyline, complex choreography, and impeccable timing. The Daily Telegraph called it a triumph, while the New York Post promised “virtually continuous laughter.” 

Repertory’s production of Run For Your Wife is the third time the company has staged the show, the first in 1986, and the second in 2001. Miguel Faustmann, the taxi driver in the first two runs, returns as the director of this exciting play.

“Even if it’s an old play, it’s such a funny and well-written play,” said Faustmann. “Let’s just have a good time laughing because it’s better to laugh than to feel angry or sad. Humor, as they say, is the best medicine, right?”

Besides the biting wit of the script, one of the fun things to take note of for Run For Your Wife is the intricate blocking and choreography for the actors. The play relies on missed connections, or a precise schedule of entrances and exits, with one stage sharing the two homes of both wives.

Theater veteran Jamie Wilson plays John Smith, a physically demanding role that would literally see him running across the stage throughout the entire show, with only two exits.

“My challenge here is to get everything so linear. I should be confused as John Smith but not as Jamie Wilson,” he shared. “I’m literally running the whole time, answering phone calls, lying, and fabricating stories. I have to keep my secret from coming out. It’s exhausting but fun.”

He is joined by Goldie Soon, who plays the motherly wife Mary, and Mikkie Bradshaw, who plays the bombshell wife, Barbara. Rounding out the cast are Jeremy Domingo as John’s best friend Stanley Gardner, Steven Conde as the flamboyantly gay neighbor Bobby Franklin, James Stacy as the suspicious Detective Sergeant Troughton, Paul Holme as the easygoing Detective Sergeant Porterhouse, and Mara Javier as the inquisitive journalist.

The humor is distinctly British, but the cast and director believe that the premise of having two wives is a universal concept.

“It’s not accepted here but it’s done,” Wilson shared. “Remember the humor in it, not the taboo. Run For Your Wife shows the humor of this ridiculous situation. You could put the same situation, take all the humor out of it and be a heavy drama like a typical Filipino teleserye. But nobody has shown the humor in it. And this is what it’s showing.”

Run For Your Wife will be staged from April 10 to May 3, 2015 at Onstage Theater in Greenbelt 1, Makati City. Ticket prices ranges from P400 to P800.

 

For more details regarding Run For Your Wife, call Repertory Philippines at 843-3570 and book tickets through TicketWorld at 891-9999 or visit their website at www.ticketworld.com.ph.

“MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical” wraps up Ballet Philippines’ 45th anniversary season

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YOUNG ACTORS JOIN BALLET PHILIPPINES IN 

“MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical”

On February 2015, “MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical” wraps up Ballet Philippines’ 45th anniversary season. Set in an alternate present day Philippines where the EDSA revolution failed, this musical features heroes and villains with superpowers, and a people sick with Kamanhiran (Apathy).

Leading the cast of superheroes as Bantugan “Tag-inip” Buenaventura is Sandino Martin, who recently won Best Actor at the Cinema One Originals Awards Night for his role in “Esprit de Corps”. Bantugan is a journalist with the power to communicate with the other superheroes through his dreams. Alternating the role is Ballet Philippines Apprentice, Mark Anthony Grantos.

Sandino Martin

Female lead Lam-Ang “Amihabagat” Panganiban, who controls the Amihan and Habagat winds, will be played by Regina de Vera and Teetin Villanueva. A resident actor of the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company, de Vera won the Gawad Buhay award for Outstanding Female Lead Performance in a Play in 2013 for “Der Kaufmann”. Villanueva is a recent Theatre Arts graduate from UP Diliman. Her thesis role performance as Hermana Augusta Beata in Floy Quintos’ COLLECTION earned her nominations for the 26th Aliw Awards and BroadwayWorld Philippines’ Awards in 2013.

 

Teetin Villanueva.

Gold Villar takes on the role of Allunsina “Mura-dugo” Albano, who has the power to draw blood through her curse words. Villar is a senior teaching artist for the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) and has been part of productions Mga Kwento ni Lola Basyang, Batang Rizal, Si Juan Tamad, Ang Diablo at ang Limang Milyong Boto and most recently, Rak of Aegis. Also playing Allunsina is Kim Molina, who recently was an alternate for the lead role of Aileen in the highly celebrated musical, Rak of Aegis. 

Gold Villar

Urduja, the mysterious goddess of all insects is played by recent discovery KL Dizon. A graduate of the Philippine High School for the Arts, Dizon has performed with the Philippine Opera Company on various productions. 

KL Dizon

Dilim, a nightclub singer whose tragic songs bring on darkness, is played by Jean Judith Javier, who was last seen in the premiere of Ang Huling Lagda ni Mabini with Dulaang UP, and recently appeared in Noli Me Tangere the Opera as the madwoman, Sisa.

Jean Judith Javier,

Lagrimas, whose tears can heal anything, is played by Ronah Rostata, a graduating Theatre Arts major from the University of the Philippines Diliman.

The cast of villains is led by Mayen Estanero, essaying the role of the Demonyita Mamalahima, the Minister of Humanity. In 2013, Estanero played the role of Rosario, wife of Lorenzo Ruiz in the Filipino-language rock opera “Lorenzo” and Nyai Ontosoroh in “Pramoedya”, which was part of Virgin Labfest. 

Fred Lo and Ricardo Magno alternate as Radya Indarapatra “Mata-balani” Evangelista, an actor by day who has the power to become one’s heart’s desire. A full time performer, some of Lo’s most notable roles have been Mark Cohen in 9works Theatrical’s “RENT” and “Prince Christopher” in Resorts World’s “Cinderella”. Magno, a scholar of the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors’ Company, recently performed with Ballet Philippines in August 2014 as Emilio Aguinaldo in “La Revolucion Filipina”. 

Ballet Philippines dancers also take on the challenge of portraying the roles of comic book heroes and villains. Featured are Jean Marc Cordero, Katherine Trofeo, Richardson Yadao, Earl John Arisola, Cyril Aran Fallar, Emmanuelle Guillermo, Timothy Paul Cabrera, Rita Angela Winder, Karmela Gaile Cortez, Gillianne Therese Gequinto, Kazier Policarpio, Victor Maguad, and Erl Emmanuel Sorilla. 

Eraserheads

This original Filipino dance musical is by Kanakan Balintagos, with musical collaborators Vincent de Jesus, Carina Evangelista, and the Eraserheads. This year’s production will be directed by BP Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales and choreographed by Alden Lugnasin. The shows will feature the Radioactive Sago Project as its live band. 

Radioactive Sago Project

“MANHID: The Pinoy Superhero Musical” will have a three-weekend run at the CCP Main Theater on February 20-22, February 27-March 1, and March 6-8.

For bulk reservations, show buys, and inquiries, visit www.ballet.ph or call Ballet Philippines at 551-1003. For tickets, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Connect to Ballet Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines

Twitter: @balletph

Instagram: @balletphilippines

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/balletph

The 45th Anniversary Sapphire Season. Rare scenes of power and grace. Love, valour and redemption. Under the artistic directorship of Paul Alexander Morales, this is a toast to 45 years of dance excellence! 

See you at the theater!

Multi Media Concert "Dancing in the Light" all set on July 24

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Dancing in the Light, an evening of dance-theater and inspirational talk is based on the book Companion of God by Dadi Janki.

“Dancing in the Light ” is a multi-media concert that interprets profound truths through the arts. The words of wisdom of spiritual leader and life coach Dadi Janki come alive through theatre, dance, music, video and sculpture.

This one-woman show is performed by Marge Enriquez, directed by Bart Guingona and choreographed by Douglas Nierras. The videos were shot on location at Avellana Art Gallery by Galileo Te of Indioboy productions. 

“Dancing in the Light ” will be shown on July 24 at 7:30 pm at Onstage, Greenbelt 1. 

The free concert is made possible through Calata Corporation, Piandré, Belo Medical Group, Century Properties, Fila, Neurobion, Penshoppe, Prestige Brands, Manila Broadcasting Company, Natimars Foundation, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., Vonotec and Watsons.

For details, contact 0917-980-3541.

10 things you should be excited about Ballet Philippines

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1. Opening our season is the award winning choreography of Agnes Locsin, LA REVOLUCION FILIPINA, with a libretto by Dennis Marasigan and set to the music of Maestro Ryan Cayabyab. This "powerful and poignant" production about Apolinario Mabini will give you another reason to be honored to be born of the Filipino race, especially as this year marks Mabini’s sesquicentennial birth anniversary.

2. Guest Artists from the American Ballet Theater (ABT) essay the roles of Giselle and Albrecht in our Fundraising Gala of GISELLE. Watch out for ABT Soloist Stella Abrera and Principal Dancer James Whiteside as they dance with Ballet Philippines. Did we mention that Ms. Stella Abrera is a Filipina?! More Philippine pride! 

3. THE BLUE MOON GALA and THE HOMECOMING GALA: two "once in a blue moon" gatherings of BP's dance community celebrating its 45 years. 

4. Ballet Philippines will go on a US Tour on October 2014 - Get ready, West Coast! 

5. Alice Reyes' CINDERELLA will bring merriment to families - especially to children - as this happy production's comeback will surely bring fun to the Yuletid0e season!

6. Ballet + superheroes + the music of Eraserheads back when they were in UP all in one production = MANHID: THE PINOY SUPERHERO MUSICAL, which will bring the season to a rocking close. This production was created by Auraeus Solito and will be choreographed by Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales and Resident Choreographer Alden Lugnasin, and is co-presented by Tanghalang Pilipino.

7. Two new schools of Ballet Philippines officially opened in the beginning of the season - the Ballet Philippines Dance School in SM Aura and Studio One near Folk Arts Theater. More space, more opportunities for young dance talents! 

8. Ballet Philippines goes to USA International Ballet Competition and Varna International Ballet Competition. Support our dancers who DREAM BIG!

9. MANanayaw, a documentary on the male dancers of Ballet Philippines, will be part of Cine Totoo: the First Philippine International Documentary Film Festival!

10. Ballet Philippines now offers FLEXIBLE SUBSCRIPTION where you can choose 4-series, 3-series, and 2 -series. Subscribers can get to choose the productions they want this early, choose seats before they are posted publicly, and save up to 25 percent!

WITHOUT YOUR ENTHUSIASTIC SUPPORT, WHERE WOULD WE BE?

THANK YOU FOR A GLORIOUS 45TH YEAR!

"PINOCCHIO" auditions set on March 30 and April 6

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Auditions for lead roles and ensemble for the Repertory Philippines Theater for Young Audiences Production of “ PINOCCHIO ” will be held on March 30 and April 6 at 6:00 pm at the Onstage Theater Greenbelt One. 

Roles:

Gepetto Pinocchio's father - baritone; 

Antonio Narrator baritone or tenor ; 

Blue Fairy - soprano; 

Angelina Housekeeper - alto or soprano; 

Candlewick - baritone or tenor. 

Gino - baritone or tenor; 

Fox - baritone or tenor; 

Cat - baritone or tenor ; 

Coachman - bass or baritone; 

Townspeople SATB male and female

Applicants will be tested for voice, musicality, the ability to pick up notes quickly and skill at parts singing, acting, and movement.

The ability to speak good English is a requirement for all lead roles.

Application forms and audition material may be picked up at the REP office at Unit 14 Ecoville Executive town homes, Metropolitan Avenue (please bring your own flash drive) Or email olison14@yahoo.com. 

For information call 8433570 or 4511474. Ask for Oliver or Marie. 

PINOCCHIO wlll open on August 16 and run on weekdays and weekends - mornings and afternoons - until December. It will have three alternating casts. Rehearsals start in June and will be from 6:00 to 8:00 Monday to Friday.

Miguel Faustmann's ‘Noises Off’ Takes Off ! opens on March 28

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Repertory Philippines proudly presents the hilarious ‘Noises Off’, the third offering for its 77th season.

Written in 1982 by English playwright Michael Frayn, Noises Off—a stage term indicating sounds coming from offstage—is a play within a play, the story of a temperamental director and a troupe of hapless performers putting up a silly sex farce called Nothing On. 

Miguel V. Faustmann

The present production of Noises Off, which is directed by Miguel V. Faustmann, runs from March 28 to April 13 and from April 25 to April 27, 2014 at Onstage, 2/F, Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas corner Legazpi St., Makati City.

The idea for Noises Off came to Frayn while he was watching one of his other plays, The Two of Us, from the wings. 

Noting that it was “funnier from behind than in front,” he was inspired to create a one-act play called Exits, which he later expanded into what would become Noises Off. 

Repertory Philippines has assembled a stellar cast for the current production, most of whom play actors playing roles in the fictitious play Nothing On.

CHINGGOY ALONSO

Veteran performer CHINGGOY ALONSO plays Lloyd Dallas, the director of the play-within-a-play.

FRANCES MAKIL IGNACIO

The role of forgetful actress Dotty Otley, who plays housekeeper Mrs. Clackett, is assayed by FRANCES MAKIL IGNACIO.

PAUL HOLME 

Returning to Rep after many years away, PAUL HOLME takes on the role of alcoholic stage veteran Selsdon Mowbray, who in turn plays a burglar. 

SHIELA VALDERRAMA-MARTINEZ

Another erstwhile Rep regular, SHIELA VALDERRAMA-MARTINEZ, plays cheerful actress Belinda Blair, who plays Flavia Brent. 

LORENZ MARTINEZ

Shiela’s real-life husband LORENZ MARTINEZ, another Rep stalwart, takes on the role of Garry Lejeune, who takes on the role of Roger Tramplemain. 

CARLA GUEVARA-LAFORTEZA

CARLA GUEVARA-LAFORTEZA, yet another returning Repper, plays Brooke Ashton, who plays a sexpot named Vicki.

GERARD SISON

GERARD SISON assays the role of actor Frederick Fellowes, who plays Flavia’s husband Philip Brent, the owner of the house in which the play-within-a-play is set. 

PEACHY ATILANO

The backstage staff of the fictitious show is composed of PEACHY ATILANO’s Poppy Norton-Taylor (the show’s assistant stage manager) and NIKO DANS’s Tim Allgood (the company stage manager). Both Poppy and Tim understudy various roles in Nothing On.

NIKO DANS

The unique humor of Noises Off comes from the intricacies of plot and character interwoven with the personalities of the actors and the show they’re trying to perform. Respected New York Times critic Frank Rich called it “the funniest play written in my lifetime,” and now is your chance to see why.

For details of the show, you may contact us in the following ways:

By phone: 843-3570 or 555-0082 (UPDATED OFFICE NUMBERS)

By e-mail: shows@repertoryphilippines.com

By Internet: http://www.repertoryphilippines.com

NOTE: The Repertory Philippines office has changed locations from Ortigas to Makati. Our new address is Unit 13 and 14 Ecoville, Executive Townhouses, Metropolitan Avenue, Makati.

Tickets are available through Ticketworld at 891-9999, or via http://www.ticketworld.com.ph/

Connect to Repertory Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/repertoryphilippines

Twitter: www.twitter.com/repphils

Instagram: www.instagram.com/repphils

YouTube: www.youtube.com/repphils

Repertory Philippines would like to thank the following media partners and establishments for their support: Broadwayworld.com, ClickTheCity.com, Radio Republic, WhenInManila.com, BusinessWorld, Lane Moving and Storage, Herword.com, Ticketworld.com, Solar News, Raintree Restaurants (Mr. Jones, Kabila, MOMO Café, and Museum Café), Greenbelt, Ayala Malls, and Lightshapers. 

“NOISES OFF” was first presented, by special arrangement with Michael Cordon, at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, on February 23rd, 1982, and on March 31st by Michael Cordron at the Savoy Theatre, London. 

“NOISES OFF” is presented by special arrangement with United Agents LLP.

Auditions for the title role of Pinocchio, set on March 1

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Repertory Theater for Young Audiences is holding auditions for the title role of Pinocchio in the forthcoming production of the same name opening on August 16, 2014.

Auditions will be held on Saturday, March 1 at 10:00am at the Onstage theater 2nd floor Greenbelt One.

Auditions are open to boys and girls 10 to 15 years of age .Girls must be willing to play a boy. Boys older than 15 should be less then 5 ft.

Those who audition should be able to sing in a high or tenor voice, to move well and be able to take choreography, and to speak good English.

RYTA is specially searching for home schooled children who can perform on weekdays. Because of the number of performances, the role of Pinocchio will be alternately played by at least five actors.

Auditioners should fill out an application form available either at the REP office or on line and learn the audition song before the auditions. Lyrics and music can be picked up at the rep office (please bring a flash drive) or can be emailed. Contact Oliver Usison at 8433570 550882 0r olison14@yahoo.com.

Pinocchio will run from August to December. Rehearsals will start on June 9. Rehearsals will be from 6:00 to 9:00pm from Monday to Friday.

RTYA is in its 22nd year of providing professional theater for young audiences. It performs for schools, organizations, charity fund raisers and for families who want their children to experience enjoyment of live theater and to benefit from this experience.

A mystery psychological suspense thriller, " Wait Until Dark" set to open on January 17

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Repertory Philippines proudly announces the start of its 2014 season with its first challenging production entitled WAIT UNTIL DARK --- a thriller written by Frederick Knott.

The play that the New York Post deemed “a first rate shocker,” WAIT UNTIL DARK is a suspense about a blind housewife named Suzy who finds herself terrorized by three strange men. The men search for a doll that has been filled with heroin and little does Suzy know, her husband has mistakenly transported the doll across the Canadian border and into their apartment. Suzy must rely on her instincts, with the help of a neighbor girl and the cover of darkness to outwit the dangerous strangers and protect her life.

WAIT UNTIL DARK premiered on Broadway in 1966 with Lee Remick portraying the role of Suzie, which earned her a Tony Award nomination for best actress in a play. After 374 performances, a film version was released in 1967 which starred Audrey Hepburn, Alan Arkin and Richard Crenna. Hepburn garnered Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for her portrayal in the film. The Bravo network ranked the film 10th on its list for 100 top scariest moments.

To be directed by theater veteran Miguel Faustmann, WAIT UNTIL DARK’s masterfully constructed thriller with plenty of intrigue and action promises to move the audiences from one moment of suspense to another as it builds toward an electrifying, breath-stopping final scene.

SYNOPSIS 

Susy Hendrix is a blind Greenwich Village housewife who becomes the target of three con-men searching for the heroin hidden in a doll, which her husband Sam innocently transported from Canada as a favor to a woman who has since been murdered. "Roat" leads his companions into thinking that they are going to be rich and will get the heroin soon enough, but in the end he murders all of his partners after they outlive their usefulness. 

The trio try to convince Susy that her husband has been accused of drug smuggling, and the only way to protect him is to give them the doll. Little do the men know that Susy gave the doll to Gloria, a little girl in the upstairs apartment. 

One of the men plays a man named Sergeant Carlino, a strange police sergeant/detective, while another plays Mike, a supposed old friend of her husband dropping by for a visit. Susy relies on "Mike", and he eventually begins to feel sympathetic for her. 

"Roat" plays both Mr. Roat and his "son" Roat Junior. Roat Junior ransacks her room and steals from her. He threatens Susy and her husband's well being, so she calls the police, or thinks she is getting the police. Of course, the con-men knew this would happen and send over "Sergeant Carlino". 

Susy is incredibly clever, and with the help of Gloria, she realizes the true identity of the men and plans to defeat them. 

The stage lights are turned off for the final scene, when Susy turns off all the lights so that "Roat" cannot see her. "Roat" threatens Susy and tries to kill her. She ultimately kills "Roat", while Gloria goes to the police. 

At the end of the play, Sam bursts in with the police to find that she has already taken care of Roat, and he sees Mike was also killed in her apartment. The police go to help Susy, but Gloria yells at them, saying she can do it on her own, and helps Susy get up. The final image of the play is Susy and Sam embracing by the stairs.

Co-presented by the City of Makati, WAIT UNTIL DARK is both exciting and at times, scary with just the right amount of intrigue and excitement for your thrilling experience. 

The show runs from January 17 to February 9, 2014. 

All performances are at Onstage, 2/F, Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas corner Legazpi St., Makati City. 

The artistic and creative team of WAIT UNTIL DARK is led by Baby Barredo (Artistic Director), Miguel Faustmann (Director), Teresa Barrozo (Sound and Music Design), Miguel Faustmann (Set Designer), and John Batalla (Lighting Designer).

The production staff is composed of Gidget Tolentino (Production Manager), Gold Soon (Stage Manager), Pol Roxas (Sound Technician), Pablito Salvador (Lighting Technician) and Adul Lasin (Set Execution and Scenic Artist).

The marketing, sales and publicity team is led by David Bianco (Marketing Director), Toots Tolentino (PR Director), Oliver Usison (Marketing Assistant), Marie Talay (Cashier) and Rose Silva (Sales Supervisor), John Alaras (Design Director), Jojo Mamangun (Photographer), and Lightshapers/ Repertory Philippines (Video Production).

To accommodate all inquiries, Repertory Philippines is now accepting reservations for schools, civic groups and corporate sponsorships.

For details of the show, you may contact us the following ways:

By phone: 571-6926 and 571-4941

By e-mail: shows@repertoryphilippines.com

By Internet: http://www.repertoryphilippines.com

Tickets are available through Ticketworld at 891-9999, or via http://www.ticketworld.com.ph/

Connect to Repertory Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/repertoryphilippines

Twitter: www.twitter.com/repphils

Instagram: www.instagram.com/repphils

YouTube: www.youtube.com/repphils

Repertory Philippines would like to thank its sponsors for their continuing support: Businessworld, Businessworld High Life, WhenInManila.com, Ticketworld, Ayala Center, Broadwayworld.com, Greenbelt, Herword.com, Lane Moving and Storage, ClickTheCity.com, Lally Eleazar’s Lightshapers, Radio Republic and the Raintree Restaurants: Kabila Filipino Bistro, Museum Café Modern Asian Cuisine, Momo Café, and Mr. Jones. 

WAIT UNTIL DARK is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

May not be suitable for children under the age of ten. Children under the age of four are not permitted.

“THE PRODUCERS,” the happiest and gayest musical in the universe

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THE PRODUCERS, the biggest hit in Broadway history, is all set to conquer Manila’s theater scene when the musical opens on November 15 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

Presented by Repertory Philippines in celebration of its 46th year, THE PRODUCERS (based on Mel Brooks’s 1968 hit movie) has become a Broadway phenomenon, turning the tradition of a Broadway musical on its head more than any other show in the history of the Great White Way. With a run of over 2,500 shows on Broadway, over two years at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane and many hundreds of shows performed on tour and international productions, THE PRODUCERS is one of the most highly awarded musicals, having received 12 Tony Awards and 10 Drama Desk Awards in 2001 and three Laurence Olivier Awards in 2005. A remake of the big-screen version in 2005 featured Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, the stars of the original Broadway production, as well as Uma Thurman and Will Ferrell.

Written by Hollywood comic veteran Mel Brooks (creator of SPACEBALLS, BLAZING SADDLES, and YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN, among many others), and Thomas Meehan (HAIRSPRAY), with songs arranged by Glen Kelly and Doug Besterman, THE PRODUCERS is a story about Max Bialystock, a struggling Broadway producer and Leo Bloom, a stage-struck accountant. These two men join forces in order to make mega-bucks by producing the worst musical ever seen on Broadway. When they receive a musical script from Franz Liebkind, an ex-Nazi stormtrooper, which tells the story of Hitler’s rise to power in song and dance, they are convinced that they have found a show that is guaranteed to offend just about everybody.

The Philippine production of THE PRODUCERS will be directed by Jaime del Mundo, with the able support of top caliber actors CARLO OROSA and ROBIE ZIALCITA alternating as Max Bialystock, the down-on-his-luck theatrical producer and a shameless con man facing bankruptcy, who woos little old ladies into backing his shows.

TOPPER FABREGAS takes on the role of Leopold ‘Leo’ Bloom, a mousy mild-mannered accountant who transitions from an uptight corporate drone to a freewheeling Broadway playboy.

Media icon G TÖNGI will tackle the role of Ulla, a blonde Swedish bombshell who auditions for the show and becomes Max and Leo’s secretary/receptionist.

Actor-director JOEL TRINIDAD plays Franz Liebkind, a former Nazi whose play is chosen by Max and Leo as a definite flop.

Stage and screen veteran NOEL TRINIDAD (Joel’s father) takes on the role of Roger De Bris, the flamboyant homosexual cross-dresser chosen to direct the show. He will be alternating with role of Roger with one of the icons of Philippine musical theater AUDIE GEMORA.

Versatile actor NOEL RAYOS will take the role of Carmen Ghia, Roger’s “common law assistant.”

The ensemble is composed of Nelsito Gomez, Steven Conde, Tristan Cheng, Jay Pangilinan, Chino Veguillas, Leroy de Guzman, Natalie Everett, Daff Abear, Liesl Batucan, Mica Pineda, Shalee Vicencio, and Gemini Quintos.

Co-presented by the City of Makati, THE PRODUCERS promises to be a Broadway thrill ride, with silly gags, irreverent humor, and show-stopping musical numbers at every turn.

The show runs from November 15 to December 15, 2013, with shows on the following dates:

Nov 15, Fri, 8pm - REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Nov 16, Sat, 8pm - REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Nov 17, Sun. 3:30pm - REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Nov 22, Fri, 8pm -REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Nov 23, Sat, 8pm -REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Nov 24, Sun 3:30 pm -REPERTORY PHILIPPINES -02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Nov 30, Sat, 8pm - Philippine College of Chest Physicians- 02 924 9204 / 0917 506 4572 

Dec 1, Sun, 3:30pm - REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Dec 7, Sat, 8pm - REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Dec 8, Sun, 3:30 pm - REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Dec 14, Sat, 8pm - REPERTORY PHILIPPINES - 02 891 9999 / 02 571-6926 

Dec 15, Sun, 3:30 pm - Ma. Clarissa C. Arguelles & Kathleen Blanca Littua - 0917 812 8325

All performances are at Onstage, 2/F, Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas corner Legazpi St., Makati City.

The artistic and creative team of THE PRODUCERS is led by Baby Barredo (Artistic Director), Jaime del Mundo (Director), Onyl Torres (Musical Director), Mio Infante (Set Designer), Natalie Everett (Choreographer), and John Batalla (Lighting Designer).

The production staff is composed of Gidget Tolentino (Production Manager), Goldie T. Soon (Stage Manager), Pol Roxas (Sound Technician), Pablito Salvador (Lighting Technician) and Adul Lasin (Set Execution and Scenic Artist).

The marketing, sales and publicity team is led by David Bianco (Marketing Director), Toots Tolentino (PR Director), Oliver Usison (Marketing Assistant), Marie Talay (Cashier) and Rose Silva (Sales Supervisor), John Alaras (Design Director), Jojo Mamangun (Photographer), and Lightshapers/ Repertory Philippines (Video Production).

To accommodate all inquiries, Repertory Philippines is now accepting reservations for schools, civic groups and corporate sponsorships.

For details of the show, you may contact us the following ways:

By phone: 571-6926 and 571-4941

By e-mail: shows@repertoryphilippines.com

By Internet: http://www.repertoryphilippines.com

Tickets are available through Ticketworld at 891-9999, or via http://www.ticketworld.com.ph/

Connect to Repertory Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/repertoryphilippines

Twitter: www.twitter.com/repphils

Instagram: www.instagram.com/repphils

YouTube: www.youtube.com/repphils

Repertory Philippines would like to thank its sponsors: The City of Makati, Business World, BusinessWorld High Life, HerWord.com, Ticketworld, BroadwayWorld, Ayala Malls, Bizu and Greenbelt for their continuing support.

THE PRODUCERS is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019. Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684

Running time: 2 hours 50 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

May not be suitable for children under the age of ten. Children under the age of four are not permitted.

A musical comedy thriller , "No Way To Treat A Lady" is on stage starting March 1

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 “No Way To Treat  a Lady” focuses on the themes --- Betrayal, Death, Friendship, Jewish/Yiddish issues, Love, Parenting/Family.

Repertory Philippines proudly announces its second offering for the year 2013 with “ No Way To Treat A Lady ” a musical comedy thriller with book, music and lyrics by Douglas J. Cohen based on the best-selling novel and renowned movie by William Goldman.

“No Way To Treat A Lady” directed by Audie Gemora, is a musical comic thriller chronicling the exploits of a 1970s momma's boy serial killer – who draws a red lipstick kiss on the forehead of each of his victims as a calling card – and the hardened momma's boy cop hell-bent on tracking him down.

As a witty, snappy, dark, and wickedly entertaining black comedy, the music and lyrics of “No Way To Treat a Lady” are magical --- you will actually start humming melodies that stay with you. All the elements come together to illustrate what a first-rate musical should be!

With five actors playing 17 roles, the cast features Audie Gemora as Christopher ‘Kit’ Gill; Joel Trinidad as Morris Brummel; Carla Guevara-Laforteza as Sarah Stone; Sheila Francisco as Flora Brummel; Pinky Marquez as Alexandra Gill; and Jamie Wilson as Christopher Gill (Stand In).

Within the course of the play, Christopher Gill disguises himself as seven other characters: an Irish priest, an Arthur Murray dance class instructor, a French waiter, a telephone repairman, a pizza delivery messenger, a New York cop, and a female barfly.

NO WAY TO TREAT A LADY received a Fred Ebb Award for Musical Theatre Songwriting, a Richard Rodgers grant, and a nomination for Best Revival by the New York Outer Critics Circle.

The schedule of shows are:

March 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 & 23, 2013 – 8:00 PM;

March 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24, 2013 – 3:30 PM. 

All performances are at Onstage, 2/F, Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas cor. Legazpi St., Makati City.

Co-presented by the City of Makati, the artistic team of “No Way To Treat a Lady” is composed of Baby Barredo (Artistic Director); Audie Gemora (Director); Liesl Batucan (Assistant Director); Dingdong Fiel (Musical Director); Mio Infante (Set Designer); Raven Ong (Costume Designer) and John Batalla (Lighting Designer).

The production team of “No Way To Treat a Lady”  is  composed of Juno Henares (Officer in charge); Gidget Tolentino (Production Manager), Gold Soon (Stage Manager); Denis Lagdameo (Technical Director), Pol Roxas (Sound Technician), Pablito Salvador (Lighting Technician) and Adul Lasin (Set Execution and Scenic Artist).

The marketing, sales and publicity of “No Way To Treat a Lady”  is led by Toots Tolentino (Publicist), Charlie Barredo with Oliver Usison, Letty Barredo, Marie Talay and Rose Silva (Marketing and Sales).

“No Way To Treat A Lady” promises to be a marvelously presented comedic story of mystery, murder, and intrigue. Just don't be surprised if it brings out the serial killer in you and makes you want to act in the show. It's going to be that much fun !!! 

“No Way To Treat a Lady” is presented through special arrangement with Samuel French Ltd. Inc.

For details of show, please call 5716926 or 5714941 or email info@repertory.ph or log on to www.repertory.ph. Tickets are also available through Ticketworld at 8919999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.

Visit www.repertory.ph, subscribe to youtube.com/repertoryphils, and “like” Repertory Philippines on Facebook.  

Baby Barredo returns to the Rep stage in the hilarious ‘BOEING BOEING’

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Baby Barredo, co-founder and Artistic Director of Repertory Philippines, is undoubtedly one of the great pillars of Philippine Theatre. Together with the late Zeneida Amador, she built Repertory Philippines with an almost inexhaustible well of passion, persistence in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and ultimately, love.

A consummate artist, she has performed the whole gamut of quintessential and iconic female lead roles including Maria in The Sound of Music, Guinevere in Camelot, Aldonza in Man of La Mancha, Eva Peron in Evita, Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady, Mrs. Anna in The King and I, Nellie Forbush and Bloody Mary in South Pacific, Miss Hannigan in Annie, Mrs. Johnstone in Blood Brothers, Ranevskaya in The Cherry Orchard, Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd, Maria Callas in Master Class, Golde in Fiddler on the Roof, Mme. Thenardier in Les Miserables, Tess Harding in Woman of The Year, and an impressive one-woman role in Late Night Catechism-- a beloved role she shared with the late Zeneida Amador.

She has contributed immeasurably to the world-class quality of Rep productions over its 45 years of existence in her capacity as Director, Actress, Costume Designer and Musical Director.

A generous and exuberant personality, Baby Barredo never fails to share her limitless gifts with those who work with her and, indeed, is responsible for shaping and honing the talents of generations of actors and actresses who have themselves attained stardom in their own right.

Last seen onstage in A Portrait of The Artist As Filipino, Baby Barredo returns to the Rep stage as Bertha, the wacky, lovable and long-suffering housekeeper (alternating with Ms. Joy Virata) who is a chic, black-clad philosopher. A French existentialist maid who loves nothing more than to complain.  

The rest of the cast include David Bianco who will essay the role of Mr. Bernard Whitford, an American architect businessman living in Paris ---  a swinging bachelor. Topper Fabregas will play the role of the unworldly Robert, Bernard’s boyhood friend, newly arrived from Wisconsin. 

Bringing to mind fantasy drawings from a vintage Esquire or  Playboy for a portfolio of international dream girls are the three fiancées: Giannina Ocampo as  Gabriella, the sentimental, lusty Italian stewardess. Carla Dunareanu as Gretchen, the hilarious, aggressive, dominating but thin-skinned German stewardess. Jen Bianco as Gloria, the Southern belle with upbeat disposition take-charge health-obsessed American stewardee.

Directed by Miguel Faustmann, BOEING BOEING is currently showing and will run until February 17, 2013. For inquiries, please call Repertory Philippines at 5716926 or 5714941. Tickets are also available at Ticketworld at 8919999 or log on to www.ticketworld.com.ph.

Visit www.repertory.ph, youtube.com/repertoryphils, and “like” Repertory Philippines on Facebook.