A roarin’ and rockin’ good time

Viva Atlantis Theatricals has brought to Philippine audiences a roarin’ and rockin’ good time with a musical theater production that leaves you giddy from head to toe.

Directed by Chari Arespacochaga, The Full Monty follows the lives of the people severely affected by unemployment in Buffalo, New York. The steelworkers are out of job, and their relationships with their significant others, including a son, are suffering. Six of them get together not only to save their decrepit relationships, but their self-esteem as men as well. They laboriously prepare to stage a strip show for the women of Buffalo, in the hopes of solving their problems.

The cast is led by Mark Bautista in the role of Jerry Lukowski, who croons in his tough-guy-with-a-big-heart kinda way. His best friend, Dave Bukatinsky, is played by veteran stage actor Jamie Wilson.

Wilson never stretches for a laugh but elicits from the audience an instant connection, which undisputedly makes him the ultimate crowd favorite.

Arnell Ignacio and Ima Castro’s chemistry on stage is so adorable and believable as well. They as a pair and individually are glorious to watch with voices that emanate clearly out to the balcony.

OJ Mariano’s Malcolm is especially endearing with his physical nuances as a momma’s boy. Nino Alejandro’s childish Ethan tries his death-defying stunts over and over again on stage.

Such a pleasant surprise to see Marco Sison on the theater stage as he plays big black man “Horse,” who projects an old-world charm that is captivating. Jay Valencia-Glorioso’s Jeanette, on the other hand, is comedic, quirky and heart-warming.

The ensemble is equally hilarious with special mention to Hans Eckstein who certainly sets the mood for the musical when from a black suit and tie, he bares down to his glittered booty briefs as the professional stripper Keno.

Tongues will wag and screeching is encouraged throughout the entire show. Your viewing experience will be greatly heightened when surrounded by friends who know how to have fun, let loose and howl away!

So, get your butts to the RCBC Plaza in Makati City and scream your hearts out. I sure did and had a fun-filled time. Shows are every Friday at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. The Full Monty closes on May 5. For more details, call Viva Atlantis Theatricals at 892-7078 or 0917-8381534.