I stepped inside the theater ready to relax and give the biggest laugh I could. It was Friday and was about to watch one of the finest comedy musicals by Repertory Philippines, Stepping Out The Musical. Though I know my chuckles were louder than all the others, I gave a few whimper, too. The personal stories of each character told through their lines and the lyrics of the songs they sang were all so true-to-life. Each character’s heart-rending tale had me in tears.
The theater curtains opened inside the dull tap dance studio of Mavis, the eternally patient instructor, joined by the cranky old pianist Mrs. Fraser and eight novice students of different backgrounds. Each scene was focused on one to two characters and the audience were led to learn about the characters’ lives and eventually feel the joy and heartache that each brought to the class.
Each character as well had his own reasons for joining the class and making a point to come every Thursday to learn a couple of dance steps, chat with dance classmates, perhaps forget something or in the case of Andy, learn about rhythm and coordination.
The steps and routines turned out to be just the background as the real focus of the play was into the relationships and interactions of the ten very different characters.
I just love how this play written by Richard Harris was adapted to our generation. I also commend Rose Borromeo for her clever choreography. And applauses, please, for the brilliant director Jaime del Mundo. The three were able to pull off a tough trick of fitting in an assortment of actors to dance and sing at the same time.
As striking as the actors’ movement on stage were their powerful voices. Their hearty signing communicated their mood, personality, and even ideas.
A favorite was the “Never Feel The Same Again” scene of Andy and Geoffrey (Raymund Concepcion). Their performance dazzled me as their facial expressions, gestures, and voices confirmed that they were suffering and grieving. Up on stage, they were feeling alone and sobbing their hearts out. Simply brilliant.
Featured actors in this lively musical comedy are veteran Repertory performers, many of whom have won theatrical awards, like Bituin Escalante, Joy Virata, Sheila Francisco, and Natalie Everett. Playing the roles of the other students are Christine Flores, EJ Villacorta, Raymund Concepcion, Cara Barredo, David Shawn Delgado, Sarah Facuri and Angela Padilla, the instructor.
Though the title of the play was a giveaway, still the ending was worth seeing. The eight distinct individuals with just as distinct motivations were able to step out of their comfort zones, grew into confident performers, and formed a strong bond of friendship. And their newfound self-confidence would be their guide to hopefully change their lives forever.
Aside from the outstanding stage actors, I was impressed with the brilliance of musical director Ejay Yatco. Repertory Philippines President and CEO Mindy Barredo Perez-Rubio’s statement about the genius musician was not an understatement — watching Ejay Yatco play is a performance in itself. He magically fused the dancing and singing into one musical play.
STEPPING OUT THE MUSICAL plays at the Onstage Theater in Greenbelt 1 on Paseo de Roxas from April 1 to 24 on Fridays at 8:00 pm, Saturdays at 3:30 pm and 8:00 pm, and Sundays at 3:30 pm. Tickets are available at TicketWorld (891-9999) or at the Repertory office (843-3570) For more information visit www.repertoryphiippines.ph.
If there’s one thing I truly appreciate about my more than two hours stay inside the theater, it was that nothing is more exciting and thrilling
than live performance. And I plan to make theater watching a social habit. And should you prefer, too, don’t forget to bring a friend.
Reading this makes me miss theater so much! I used to be active in a group back when I was in college. As much as I want to go watch again, I feel guilty whenever I do not spend time with the little one during my free days. Oh, the woes of a mother :))
Same sentiments on the guilty mommy and missing theater.
I love theaters! Reading this makes me want to watch it myself. Was Yael with you watching this play?
Yes, me too. Hope to spent theater watching with you. Ihihi. No, i didn’t dare bring him there. Baka mag Ingay. Ihihi
I’ve been wanting to watch a theater play my life! Unfortunately, no one wants to come with me. Maybe this is a sign that I should invite my friends again, eh? I’m no actor that’s why I’m very amazed with people who can act and portray roles really well.
And sing at that! I always love theater but same as you, it’s very seldom to find someone to love it as much as I do.
Wow the plot surely sounds awesome for a watch. I always find plays so much more of a personal experience and fun. I once watched a play in delhi which showed a woman being lost to the winner of a games card. Post that they showed 4 different endings to the story and we were left to take anyone of these as our ending.
I can never take the story and the performance out of my mind
Nag vicarious experience tuloy ako dahil sa post mo. Wow! Would love to see that show if only I live in Manila! 😀
Haha. Surely there will be more plays to come and hope you could catch them. Or perhaps they bring the theater to your place. Negros / Bacolod, right?
I love live theater and am always impressed with the fact that they have worked so hard to get ready for the performance. This premise looks really interesting to me and I wish I were closer so I could watch it. It makes me really crave going to the theater!
Nothing more exciting and thrilling as live theater! I wish, too, there will be plays near your place so you could watch. 🙂
I have never watched one and I have a feeling that I will in the future. Why? I have a friend who is a theater actor and has been invited to watch. 🙂
I admire theater actors. I find them so professional aside from the obvious- real talented. No doubt your friend has both.
I have always wanted to watch something like this. Sadly, most events like Step Out only happen in the Luzon area. And maybe Cebu. I understand though that they can’t afford to go from province to province. THEATER IS <3
I’m currently exploring some things I haven’t done before, and watching a musical play wasn’t part of it until I’ve read your post. It seems you enjoyed the experience, a lot. May I know how much the ticket is?
Upon checking TicketWorld, reserved seating at P800 plus while free seating at about P600 up. The musical play is such a hit, catch it if you can.
I have always wanted to go and watch these kinds of stuff. I am glad you had fun!
Such a fun way to end the week– with my mom. She haven’t seen any theater plays before. Hope you try it as well
I can’t remember the last time I watched a theater show. But I know that its soooo fun and amazing! The show looks interesting. I’m living near greenbelt and might consider this as a social habit too 🙂
And don’t forget to bring a friend. Its more enjoyable to watch with friends around.
My theatre experience as of now is limited to kids’ drama ☺
But yes i have been wanting to step out for more theatre shows..hoping that time will come soon
And when that time comes, hoping we see each other and together enjoy the play.
I regularly watch theatre plays in a Christian church, and indeed, it’s more inspiring than entertaining.
I couldn’t agree more 🙂
To go to a theatre is a great way of spending spare time with a friend or even alone. I like to laugh and I like to see funny actors or jokes. This kind of things are always cosy.
I miss watching theater shows and I missed this one because I am not available. It looks fun!
Real fun! The play is until April 24 , lots of time to see the play and bring a friend as well 🙂
This play sounds brilliant. Sometimes you need more than just a laugh but to be completely entertained too. The theater really showcases many gems of shows. I can’t wait to visit next month
Theater is so alive. The Stepping Out actors’ voices, facial expressions, and gestures are really just wow!
I love theater! And I’m a big fan of Repertory Philippines! Stepping Out sounds interesting to me 🙂 It’s been a long time since I last watched an act from Repertory and you made me miss them more!
Love theater, too. If you have time, Stepping Out is a nice musical. Worth the time, really. And don’t forget to bring a friend should you decide to watch. 🙂
Its been ages I’ve watched a show!! You made me miss it!! 🙂
I so love live plays. You know I once was a part of the play and it was an awesome feeling. I haven’t watched any recently. This play sounds amazing. Looks like you had a time full of entertainment. I am definitely gonna go and enjoy the next play in my city. 🙂
Oh this makes me want to do to the theatre! I’ve not been for so many years, the last time I went was to see Grease the musical and I didn’t enjoy it that much as I’d been in hospital the night before! But nevertheless I feel there is a theatre shaped void in my life and it will probably be filled by seeing something my daughter enjoys!
Too bad re the hospital stay. Grease is such a fun show. I would love to watch it again if there be a play coming.
I love theater but its been years na hindi na ako nakapunta ng theater. I really miss going to theater </3
I used to be a theater person when I was younger. Watching Stepping Out revives my love for theater. Find time. Its refreshing to watch theater shows once in a while.
Stepping Out will be till April 24 so you have lots of time.
I love watching musicals and stage plays but my husband is not into it. I tagged him along a few times and he got really bored.
Hahaha. I was with my mom when we saw the Stepping Out and she slept lang. Sayang!
The last time i watched a play was i think February. Me and my bf watched Bituing Walang Ningning. It was good. Watching plays amazed me because you know, it’s like impromptu. No second takes. They have to give their best shot. This play looks like a fun filled show!
Yes, it is. You can still catch it at onstage theater, greenbelt 1 until April 24.
I’m honestly not the theater type of person but if I would see one, I would love it to be a comedy musical such as this. I think I’d enjoy more a theater performance with humor than the dramatic ones.
❤ Louise
I prefer comedy musical, too. Ihihi
I’m honestly not the theater type of person but if I would see one, I would love it to be a comedy musical such as this. I think I’d enjoy more a theater performance with humor than drama.
❤ Louise
Watching musical plays provides immense pleasure and it is considered as one of the most gratifying as well as memorable experiences for many people who love art and music, like myself.
If I were to bring people with me in plays, they would be my daughters so that they could appreciate live performances too VS watching in movie theatres. =)
I agree with you. I brought with me my mom and she slept most of time during that almost 2 1/2 hours play. Sayang. Now i know she doesn’t appreciate live performances. I will bring my boys next time.