Chito Madrigal in The Love of Leonor Rivera

In November 1953, socialite Chito Madrigal portrayed the title role in Severino Montano’s three-act play The Love of Leonor Rivera. It was a first try at stage acting for the highly accomplished lady: Lawyer (admitted to the American bar), harpist, all-around sportswoman, fashion pacesetter and businesswoman.

For the part, Chito wore several Maria Clara gowns, including the one on this page, created by Slim’s. Historical accounts said that in the lining of Leonor Rivera’s Maria Clara the love letters of Jose Rizal were hidden.

The Sunday Times Magazine headlined Chito’s stage debut, ‘1953 top socialite plays Rizal’s Leonor.’

The play was staged at the Areana Theater of the Philippine Normal College. Montano was much later named National Artist for Theater. RKC