The heels are alive

In 1994, 23 strong-willed and highly driven Pinoys took over their new theatrical domain, the production of Miss Saigon in Stuttgart, Germany. Being Filipino and historically flexible, we made the required adjustments in many areas – a new system, the harsh climate, the language barrier and a different culture.

They housed a bunch of us from the cast at a hotel-like flat near the airport. The American cast members called it "Little Manila."

We still had to adjust to each other, even though most of us had worked together in the Philippines. The difference here was that we were together 24 hours a day. We were together so much that the little time we had for peace was very precious.

Working and living in Germany was a fantantic experience nevertheless. Anybody who had the chance to be part of the Miss Saigon family in Germany could call the shots in their own way. The theater was built for us so we owned it. We were given the right to voice our complaints, and if we backed them up fully, the company management would not only listen but also implement our suggestions.

I saw the naive and innocent Filipina cast members blossom into individuals, thriving in an environment that promoted growth and security, and the inalienable right to be stupid, make mistakes and to laugh at yourself. The independence we formed gave us depth and character–things we could all take with us beyond Germany. Our relationships were built on solid trust – and love – like a real family.

We now keep permanent residency in Germany, where we live – some of us still thriving in the theater and building solid names, others simply trying to do "anything." We have all developed a weave of connections in our little town of Stuttgart. I have an agent who calls me if they need an Asian actor who can do karate and cook Chinese food. I have done some good, short films for the Ludwigsburg Film Academy, a project for Diesel, and the buyers show for Hugo Boss two years in a row.

Crowning Glory

Doing what I loved for five years straight made me more discriminating about the kind of roles I wanted to play. I only want to do a few plays – the kind that injects life into me.

Rent was one of those plays. I tried out for the German production, was called back several times, but didn’t pass. I was happy though to be called back. After the German tryouts I let my dream of being in the cast of Rent go and thought hopefully, "It will happen someday."

When I heard that they were casting for the Singapore production of Rent, I sent in a video where I sang as the central character, Angel. The heels kicked in but not the high notes, but I am glad director Bobby Garcia saw through the video. I offered the role of Angel.

Seven members were added to complete the Rent Singapore cast–four Singaporeans and three Filipinos. The others were original members of the successful Manila Rent cast. It was a cast almost too good to be true. I was so proud to be a part of this production, as I believed fervently in the show’s message. I admit to being sucked into everyday worries but I do try to count my days as if they may be my last and to celebrate each moment.

I readily opened my heart to the prospect of a month-long run of eight shows a week. The rehearsals were a breeze and I enjoyed working once more with talented Filipinos. I am still in awe of their gusto for life. Where does it come from? It seems like a bottomless pit.

The cast was younger than the Miss Saigon cast but, nevertheless, they were ready and open-minded. The collaboration and leadership of this type of a production needed someone with a clear vision. The director saw through the hearts of the performers and used this to polish their strongest points. I enjoyed every single performance and valued my time on stage even if sometimes I faltered and couldn’t seem to find the right inspiration. I sashayed with joy and glee to my heart’s delight during each performance at the Victoria Theater in Singapore. I truly enjoyed the power that comes from wearing a mask, the height and elevation of a heel, and the wig that crowns your glory.

I still try to never forget that life is to be celebrated, and love is probably the only thing that can get you through rough times.

Back in Heels

After the successful Singapore run of Rent, I went back to Germany. But this time I carried with me the text of my next show and new love, Hedwig. Could it be fate? I identify with this character in a million ways. Hedwig is a wonderful rock musical about a survivor. About someone who has had it real bad in life, but who still manages to laugh and remains hopeful that we will all find our true other half. It is a magical tale about true love.

I will be back in those heels this August when I return to Manila to play Hedwig. But being in drag is just a small part of the character and of the story. It is also just a small part of who I am. The play shows you that if you look a little closer, and maybe take the time to listen quietly, you will hear and see a drumbeat that is different.

Hedwig’s drumbeat. And my own.

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The author was member of the original German cast of Miss Saigon. He went on to play the role of Angel in the rock musical Rent in Singapore to critical acclaim. He is currently playing the lead role in Atlantis Productions new rock musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch which opened last Aug.10 at the Equitable-PCI Bank Theater, directed by Bobby Garcia. Jake recalls his days with the Miss Saigon company in Germany, his stint as Angel with the cast of Rent Singapore, and his new role in the rock musical Hedwig.

For more information on Hedwig and the Angry Inch, contact Atlantis Productions at 892-70-78.