Rep stages 'Fantasticks'

MANILA, Philippines - Repertory Philippines stages The Fantasticks, which opens on July 3 at Onstage at Greenbelt One.

This beloved musical was staged in the earlier days of the company. And on Broadway, it’s been one of the longest running productions in American theater history. What makes it magical is the theme — of two fathers who plot to get their children to get to fall in love with each other. They succeed, but not without the expected dark side that is constantly threatening. However, as always, love triumphs in the end and one leaves humming “Try to remember…” and feeling very good indeed.

Repertory has been in the business of bringing good theater to audiences for more than 40 years now. So it knows just the right formula for a memorable production: a good story with an exceedingly capable cast.

In the lead role of the young girl is Julia Abueva. Julia is amazing; at age 13 she has already done theater in Singapore, done concerts before heads of state and foreign dignitaries, and has won the ALIW Best Child Performer for 2007.

As the young man, PJ Valerio comes to his role with not just his boyish good looks, but with a lot of theatre experience. He has had lead roles in other musicals like First Name under Freddie Santos’ direction, Mulan Jr. directed by Joy Virata. And last year, PJ was Matthew in the Repertory production of Altar Boyz.

Others in the cast are Jake Macapagal as El Gallo, Jaime del Mundo and Dido de la Paz who play the fathers of the young kids, Miguel Faustmann as the Shakespearean actor, Red Concepcion as the Indian, and PJ Rebullida as the mime.

The Fantasticks will be shown at Onstage at Greenbelt One, Paseo de Roxas, Makati, from July 3 to the 26, on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3:30 p.m.

For tickets and other inquiries, call the Rep office at 887-0710 or Ticketworld at 891-9999, or visit www.repertory.ph and www.ticketworld.com.ph.