MANILA, Philippines - Sometimes, making a spectacle of yourself can be a good thing. Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and Concertus Manila — the producers behind the hugely successful Manila seasons of Phantom of the Opera and Wicked — announced four new productions up their sleeve for this year, making 2015 their busiest yet, and a bumper crop for theatergoers.
In addition to the expected splashing success of West End musical Singin’ in the Rain, opening at The Theatre at Solaire on Aug. 20, Lunchbox and Concertus announced new and “spectacular” shows for September including:
La Soirée (Sept. 23-27, The Theatre at Solaire). The box-office-smashing cabaret show with a difference, it’s a deliciously decadent cocktail of astonishing acrobats, mind-bending feats and thrilling cabaret, well-seasoned with humor. An international sensation, this tight-knit family of troubadours, chanteuses, dazzling divas and cabaret queens has smashed box office records across Europe, the US and Australia, bagging London’s 2015 Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Best Unique Theatrical Experience at New York’s Off Broadway Alliance Awards 2014.
Louis Pearl: The Amazing Bubble Man (Sept. 23-27, RCBC Theater). Making its first appearance in Manila, with everything from Helium bubbles, Rocket bubbles, Volcano bubbles and Tornado bubbles to Foggy Laser bubbles and even Spaceship-in-Universe bubbles, The Amazing Bubble Man is set to enchant adults and children alike with his unique blend of skill and humor. Pearl has thrilled audiences around the world for nearly 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles, performing for more than one million people, including royalty and celebrities.
Beyond the Barricade (Oct. 7, The Theatre at Solaire). A glittering concert of musical showstoppers featuring past principal performers from the West End production of Les Misérables. For one night only, catch former cast members Andy Reiss (Jean Valjean and others); David Fawcett (Valjean); Katie Leeming (Eponine); and Rebecca Vere (Cosette). Their repertoire includes hit songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, Evita, Wicked, Miss Saigon, West Side Story, Mamma Mia and many others, climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, Les Misérables.
Cookin’ Nanta (Nov. 10-15, The Theatre at Solaire). What’s cooking? Korea’s world-famous non-verbal performance show features knives and other kitchen utensils transformed into musical instruments, acrobatic cooking shows, a surprise wedding ceremony, and an exciting dumpling challenge. The highlight of the show is a “Water Drum Sequence” where drummers beat 5 standing kitchenware drums with water and LED lights on them and this climax leaves the audience wondering whether it’s the drums or their heart beating. Seen by 8.1 million people, the largest audience in Korean history, Nanta has been serving up success around the world.
It’s a feast of spectacles from Lunchbox and Concertus, guaranteeing laughs and thrills for the whole family. And great news for all Visa cardholders: advance tickets with a 10% discount will be available during the Visa Entertainment presale for all Visa credit, debit, and prepaid cardholders for the following shows from July 15 – Aug. 15 or until tickets are sold out at www.visa.com.ph.
Says producer and CEO of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions James Cundall: “Our lineup for the rest of this year will guarantee fun for all, with a wonderfully eclectic range of shows — there is definitely something for everyone.”
For tickets and information, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph, www.facebook.com/ticketworldinc, www.facebook.com/ConcertusManila, or call Ticketworld at 891-9999.