This musical speaks not simply to the “future attorneys,” however to all of us, on whom the nation’s future rests
Considered one of 2024’s hit unique Filipino musicals, “Bar Boys: A New Musical,” is at present in the course of its run, and has, up to now, exhausted all obtainable tickets. However upon standard demand, the producers have introduced a restricted extension, with new exhibits from Nov. 7 to 10.
The manufacturing is a musical adaptation of the 2017 Cinemalaya movie of the identical title, following the approaching of age of 4 boys—Erik (Benedix Ramos), Chris (Alex Diaz), Torran (Jerom Canlas), and Josh (Omar Uddin)—as they navigate not solely the challenges of legislation faculty but additionally of actual life past.
What makes “Bar Boys” a serious draw lies in the way it has completely arrange its case: a e book that’s equal elements relatable and dramatic (with a sprinkling of lighthearted moments), music that completely captures the moods and motifs of every character and story arc, and a well-rounded mixture of characters the viewers can all join with.
READ: ‘Bar Boys’ unique musical: Exceptional past affordable doubt
Its premise might make it appear to be a distinct segment story—one about legislation college students and attorneys!—however sitting by means of the just about three-hour musical proves its universality. It’s a Filipino story by means of and thru. Furthermore, it’s the story of the Filipino at this time.
“Bar Boys” speaks to anybody who’s ever had a dream. Particularly within the Philippines, the place grand desires typically come at a steep value. Anybody who’s had a dream can relate to Erik and his apprehensions about pursuing a legislation diploma. We’ll all be accustomed to the dilemma of selecting between what we would like and what we predict is extra sensible.
The musical additionally speaks to those that might have dreamt of fixing the system, altering the nation, and maybe have been shamed for such idealism. In “Bar Boys,” we see a number of of the primary characters bear the identical hopes. The well timed references and jabs to present social points additionally trace at this. (Much more well timed, because the nation is organising for the mid-term elections.)
“Bar Boys” is for individuals who really feel strongly about justice within the nation. (Or, equally, for individuals who might have stopped believing in any sense of justice within the nation already.) As we see the 4 boys study the intricacies of the authorized system and go nose to nose in opposition to the corruption within the system themselves, we too are taken on the journey to rekindling (then shedding, then reviving) that spark of hope.
What’s stunning about “Bar Boys” is that it additionally touches on the significance of neighborhood and acceptance, exhibiting that working for and attaining one’s desires isn’t a solitary effort; looking for and accepting assist from others can also be invaluable.
Whereas “Bar Boys” stays largely the identical from its early 2024 model, some minor additions serve to provide extra nuance to the characters. Anticipate the identical beautiful set and lighting design, dynamic choreography, and fascinating story and music that has gathered hundreds of audiences to the theater.
Two tracks from the musical are at present obtainable on Spotify.
“Bar Boys: A New Musical” runs till Nov. 10 on the Energy Mac Heart Highlight Black Field Theater, Circuit Makati. Written by Pat Valera, with music by Myke Salomon. Directed by Pat Valera and Mikko Angeles. Choreography by Jomelle Period. Set design by Ohm David. Technical path by D Cortezano. Lighting design by Meliton Roxas, Jr., Jethro Nibaten. Costume design by Tata Tuviera. Video projection design by Joyce Garcia and Jasper Gonzales. Property design by Julio Garcia. Starring Benedix Ramos, Alex Diaz, Jerom Canlas, Omar Uddin, Sheila Francisco, Naths Everett, Juliene Mendoza, Lorenz Martinez, Chino Veguillas, Topper Fabregas, Shaun Ocrisma, Nor Domingo, Gimbey Dela Cruz, Katrine Sunga, Carlon Matobato, Edrei Tan, Diego Aranda, Ade Valenzona, Meg Ruiz, Jam Binay, Uzziel Delamide, Jannah Baniasia, Ian Pangilinan, Khalil Tambio, Rapah Manalo, Mikaela Regis
