MANILA, Philippines—One of the most anticipated productions loved by fans in the Philippine theater world, “Mula sa Buwan,” written and directed by Pat Valera, is set to come back with a physical audience. In a 30-second teaser released last March, the clip asked fans if they are ready to watch the musical again—in person.
The pandemic has put us in inevitable circumstances where everything was halted, including the world of performing arts, such as live music and theater plays. Sure, we had other options to access theater plays as we have “settled” for the virtual stage,, but we cannot deny that there is nothing like being able to witness our favorite productions live.
After two years of staying in the comfort of our homes, and with things gradually coming back to its natural state, except for the fact that we need to wear face masks and constantly use alcohol and sanitizers, things we used to enjoy pre-COVID 19 are looking to be within our reach.
Mula sa Buwan is a Filipino musical adaptation of the French play “Cyrano de Bergerac” by Edmond Rostand. It was translated into Filipino by Soc Rodrigo. Director and Playwright Pat Valera wrote the play along with William Manzano, who worked on the music and lyrics.
Image courtesy of Mula sa Buwan
The play tells the story set in 1940s Manila during the war that will revolve around a classic Filipino love-triangle trope and touches on the tribulations and challenges in the middle of the war. Their quest will take them over the world as they fight for their love and their lives.
The theater production was last performed live in theaters in 2016 and 2017 at the Henry Lee Irwin Theater and at the Hyundai Hall of Ateneo de Manila University in November and December of 2018.
In these said performances, the cast consisted of well-known performing artists Nicco Manalo and Boo Gabunada, who both portrayed the male lead role, Cyrano. Meanwhile, KL Dizon, Gab Pangilinan, and Cris Go alternated the female lead role of Roxane. Theater artists Fred Lo, Myke Salomon, and Edward Benosa took on the role of another male lead cast, Christian.
As of now, the pre-production of the play is still underway, having just wrapped up casting calls which started in March. Running dates in August and other specific details, such as new or retained members, have yet to be fully divulged.
*Updated as of May 27, 2022:
“Mula Sa Buwan” will have its 12-show run at the SAMSUNG PERFORMING ARTS THEATER, Circuit Makati starting August 26 to September 11, 2022.