Mother-daughter time at ‘A Chorus Line’
There is a uniquely warm, fuzzy feeling that washes over a parent when roles are reversed and you see your child, now grown and independent, use their own hard-earned money to treat you to a world-class experience.
That is exactly what happened two Fridays ago, March 20, when my daughter Gabbie asked if I wanted to join her for a performance of the hit Broadway musical, “A Chorus Line.” The production recently enjoyed a limited engagement at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater at Circuit Makati, concluding its run yesterday, March 29.
Originally debuting in 1975, “A Chorus Line” remains a titan of musical theater, having scooped up nine Tony Awards (out of 12 nominations) and the 1976 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It gifted the world timeless anthems like my personal favorite, What I Did for Love, and the glittering signature song, One Singular Sensation. Since the play has long since ceased its run on Broadway — where Gabbie loves to catch shows — she was thrilled to learn that Theater Group Asia was bringing it here to celebrate the musical’s 50th anniversary.
The special production features a powerhouse all-Filipino and Fil-Am cast, led by the incredible Conrad Ricamora in the role of Zach. Known for his roles in “How to Get Away with Murder” and Broadway hits like “Here Lies Love” and “Oh Mary!,” Conrad brings a deep personal connection to the stage. His father, who hails from Cebu, was a US Air Force veteran, while his mother is of German and Irish descent.
In a recent interview, Conrad shared that taking on this role has been a “healing” experience that allows him to reconnect with his culture. He is joined by the talented Lissa de Guzman, a Broadway actress known for “Wicked” and “Aladdin,” who plays the role of Cassie.
Beyond these headliners, the rest of the amazing cast is composed of local “triple threats,” who sing, dance and act with breathtaking precision. These performers were handpicked through rigorous nationwide auditions held in Manila, Cebu, Bacolod and Davao, and their mastery of jazz, modern and ballet is evident in every step.
Set on a bare stage, the story centers on the intense journeys of 17 dancers auditioning for a spot in a chorus line. It is a raw, behind-the-scenes look at their lives, revealing stories of childhood trauma, sexual awakening and the grueling sacrifices required to survive in the industry.
During the show, I couldn’t help but whisper to Gabbie about how rigorous and competitive it must be to land a role in a Broadway production, where no part is too small or too big for an actor who simply wants to work.
Before the performance began, the usual reminders about cellphones and recording were played, but I was particularly struck by the warning regarding light effects. It wasn’t until the finale of One Singular Sensation that I truly understood the reminder, as the lighting choreography was perfectly synchronized with the dancers in a spectacular display.
Under the direction of Karla Puno-Garcia and associate director Jamie Wilson, it was a night that proved Filipino talent has truly come a long way.
As the final golden lights dimmed and we walked out of the theater, I found myself reflecting on the many years I spent holding Gabbie’s hand, introducing her to the magic of live concerts and the wonder of the stage.
Having her treat me to this performance felt like its own kind of standing ovation — a beautiful, full-circle moment where the child I once guided had become the one leading the way. “A Chorus Line” is famously a story about the relentless drive of performers doing anything for the chance to work, but for me, that Friday night was a tribute to the most rewarding work a parent can do: watching your child grow into a person who now wants to share their success and their passions back with you.
- Latest
- Trending
