‘Musikal!’ celebrates CCP’s 45th anniversary

MANILA, Philippines - The Cultural Center of the Philippines brings together popular original Filipino musicals in a single evening featuring the original cast and musical theater performers. A gala event billed as “Musikal! A Musical Theater Celebration of CCP’s 45th” takes place on Sept. 5 and 6, 8 p.m., at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater). The musical revue features excerpts from Rak of Aegis, Rama Hari, Maxie the Musical, Katy!, Caredivas, Noli Me Tangere, Magsimula Ka, ZsaZsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal, Bluebird of Happiness, Rock Supremo, Rivalry, and Lorenzo, among others.

“This is going to be a landmark convergence of Philippine musical theater talent, a rare night where one can experience the melodies of the composers, the spectacle put together by the directors, the passion of the ensemble and the splendid musicality that Filipino musical theater performers are known for worldwide,” CCP’s artistic director Chris Millado says. Millado also directs the show in collaboration with the original directors and producing companies like Tanghalang Pilipino, Ballet Philippines, Philippine Educational Theater Association, Trumpets, Spotlight Artists Centre, Bit by Bit Company, 4th Wall Theater Company, Green Wings, and Ateneo Blue Rep.

Audiences will also hear the scores of the musicals orchestrated for the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Gerard Salonga. Special medleys will be rearranged for the vocal style of the Philippine Madrigal Singers. Jed Balsamo arranges for orchestra from the original compositions of Ryan Cayabyab, Vincent de Jesus, Rony Fortich, Ed Gatchalian, Aegis, Ebe Dancel, and Gines Tan, among others.

This landmark gala celebrates original Philippine musical theater artistry.

For inquiries, call the CCP sales and promotions office at 832-3706 or 832-3704.