It was a pleasant surprise running into my Lola Fides at a family gathering in Pampanga. It was a little less pleasant when she asked me to write about a musical for which she had written the libretto. You see, my Lola Fides Cuyugan-Asensio is an operatic soprano, actress and librettist, so I thought I would be watching an opera — something that might be too “cultured” for me. I thought I would have to take a crash course in opera before I could appreciate it.
The musical, entitled Song of Joseph, is based on the biblical story of Mary and Joseph during the time of Herod. The couple’s struggles, involving a controversial relationship, a pregnancy out of wedlock, and a murderous king, make a “conceivably” exciting show.
Joy Rago, Song of Joseph project director, invited me to one of their rehearsals. After hearing the modern psalms, I was relieved to find out it was a musical theater piece and not an opera.
I enjoyed watching What’s So Special About Mary? featuring the voices of Cristine Carlos, Melanie Dujungco, Jenny Villegas and Ma. Christina Joaquin gossiping jealously about Joseph.
My favorite piece during rehearsals was the powerful duet, Joseph, Don’t Come Near Me... If You Cast Me Out sung by Mary (Tricia Amper Jimenez) and Joseph (Jon Joven).
It was bewildering in its pop rock splendor. The song, about Joseph receiving news from Mary about her immaculate pregnancy, will take your breath away.
Song of Joseph promises to captivate and amuse audiences of all ages and religious backgrounds. This must-see musical will have its run at the Meralco Theater, from Nov. 17 to 20 at 7 p.m.