Last Monday, I was invited to attend a runthrough of the upcoming Musical of repertory Philippines entitled Mulan (Jr). The musical is based on the Disney film of the same name and features the same songs – including a song that has become a pop favorite – REFLECTIONS. This stage version was written specially for young audiences by Patricia Cotter with music and lyrics by Matthew Wilder, David Zippel, Stephen Schwartz, Jeanine Tesori and Alexa Junge with music adapted and arranged by Bryan Louiselle. MULAN is a production of REP’S Children’s Theater which has featured such musicals for young audiences as CINDERELLA, ALLADIN (Jr.), PINOCCHIO, SLEEPING BEAUTY, and many others.

Above are the actors who are alternating for the character of Mulan. From left to right. Caisa Borromeo, Cara Barredo and Cris Villonco.

It features some of REP’S most seasoned and accomplished actors including Cris Villonco, Cara Barredo, and Caisa Borromeo alternating in the role of MULAN; PJ Valerio, Reuben Uy, and Felix Rivera alternating in the role of CHANG; and Red Concepcion, Robbie Guevara , Rem Zamora and Chevy Mercado alternating in the role of MUSHU – the “DRAGON WANNA-BE.” Supporting them will be a strong cast of veterans and talented newcomers. MULAN is based on a real-life Chinese legend about a young girl who proves that with courage, intelligence and determination, a girl can bring honor to her family as much as any boy.

So far as the run through had shown us, the show is well recommended not only for the kids but also to adults who enjoys music since it features almost all the original soundtrack of the film. Cara Barredo and PJ Valerio displayed stage excellence as well as the whole cast. I'm also glad to see Ms. Pinky Marquez to be part of this Musical because I never thought that she is active in stage now.

MULAN is directed by JOY VIRATA with choreography by DENISA REYES and sets and costumes by NIKI TORRES and set to premiere this coming Sunday, August 9 at the ONSTAGE THEATER in GREENBELT ONE and will run until December 18.

Tickets
Orchestra Center - P 350.00
Orchestra Side - P 300.00
Balcony - P 250.00

For tickets, call 8870710. Or logon to Ticketworld