5 Reasons Why Liwanag Sa Dilim Is A Must Watched Musical
9 Works Theatrical brings to life the songs of Rico Blanco in a musical that is out of the universe
For music lovers, chances are they heard the name Rico Blanco, who has become synonymous with Rivermaya, one of the country’s popular groups of the 90s. Blanco has carved a name as one of the country’s top songwriters, and his songs have come to life in 9 Works Theatrical’s Liwanag Sa Dilim.
Musical theater has been a tool to tell stories. For parents, this gives them a chance to bond with their teen children and tell them how theater can be a learning tool to learn more about Filipino culture.
Fresh from the success of Once On This Island and Rent, the musical, based on a book and directed by Robbie Guevarra puts Blanco’s music in a story that transcends time as Elesi sought answers to his past after discovering that he was only adopted by the family he grew up with.
We can’t spoil it too much, but we can share reasons why teens and their parents should see the musical, which runs until April at the Carlos Romulo Theater in RCBC Makati. Trust us, you’ll learn a lot from it!
Alexa Ilacad and Khalil Ramos in Liwanag sa Dilim
Liwanag Sa Dilim stars today’s upcoming actors from television and theater
Liwanag sa Dilim boasts a talented cast whose faces are familiar on TV and theater. GMA artists Khalil Ramos, Rita Daniela, Anthony Rosaldo, and ABS-CBN’s Alexa Ilacad and CJ Navato lead the cast.
Khalil Ramos is no stranger to theater and television. His most recent theater appearance is in the play Tick, Tick Boom! Aside from Liwanag, Khalil is part of the film Olsen’s Day, an entry to the Cinepanalo Film Festival.
Anthony Rosaldo is one of GMA’s fast-rising singers. He’s no stranger to theater, appearing in Rent as Roger and the young Hector in Ang Hulng El Bimbo. He recently released his single “Batulbalani.”
From L to R: Anthony Rosaldo and Khalil Ramos alternate in the role of Elesi
Rita Daniela is known for her work in television, but she has theater experience. She recently released her song “Ikaw At Ako,” which she wrote for her son Uno. Rita is currently finishing her album.
Alexa Ilacad has been a familiar face since she started as a child star in Goin Bulilit. She later starred in teleseryes and appeared in 4 Sisters Before the Wedding. She also made her theater debut in Walang Aray. Alexa is currently one of the hosts of the Pinoy Big Brother Collab edition.
CJ Navato has come a long way from his child star days since being a runner-up in Star Circle Quest: Kids Edition and Goin Bulilit. Aside from teleseryes, CJ is also a singer who recently starred as Popoy in One More Chance the Musical.
Other familiar names include Nicole Ormillo, who appeared alongside CJ in One More Chance the Musical, and Neomi Gonzales, who recently starred alongside Aencille Santos in the movie adaptation of Isang Himala.
Listen to the new arrangements of Rico’s songs
Those who grew up listening to Rico Blanco and Rivermaya will remember the original melody of the songs. But for the musical, it has been given a different arrangement to fit today’s generation of theater-goers. Songs like “Ulan,” and “214” were given a new life and it will definitely be on your playlist if the cast does release a soundtrack of the musical.
Aside from the songs, theater goers will also enjoy the visuals and the choreography. There are some scenes that will take the viewers by surprise.
Khalil Ramos in a scene from Liwanag sa Dilim
Take yourself back in time
We can’t divulge the plot much except that Elesi is in search of his true identity. He’ll find himself transported to the past, which gives clues to who he really is. Theater fans will definitely be in for a ride once they understand the storyline.
Be surprised how it’s still relevant today
Elesi’s journey finds himself in situations that still happen in today’s society. Good versus evil and betrayal are just some of the challenges he finds himself. Most of all, Elesi will discover the true meaning of love for country.
History is one of the best teachers
Some tend to shrug off and say that the past is past. But if there’s one thing people should know that history repeats itself if they allow it. History has always been a teacher to people and in Liwanag Sa Dilim, it will teach today’s generation why the past matters in the present and future.
Rita Daniela in a scene from Liwanag sa Dilim
Get your families to watch it!
Liwanag Sa Dilim is suitable for parents and their kids 13 years old and above. Best of all, it runs until April. So better check out the dates you can watch and be in for a ride in this new musical that’s the talk among theater fans.
Photos by Geri Reyes for 9 Works Theatrical
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