Cast Announced for Manila Production of Les Miserables

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The full company has been confirmed for the Manila season of Boublil & Schönberg's legendary musical LES MISÉRABLES. Presented in Manila by Smart Infinity, the anticipation remains high for the forthcoming arrival of the musical. 

Following an extensive search, Cameron Mackintosh is thrilled to reveal the talented cast for the highly-anticipated Manila engagement of LES MISÉRABLES.

“I am excited to now be bringing the new production to The Theatre at Solaire, which has proved just as successful all over the world as the original production that has celebrated its thirtieth anniversary in London last October – the only place in the world where you can still see the original production. Having created my new production over five years ago to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of LES MISÉRABLES, it is now in its second year on Broadway, having broken box office records across America and in Canada for over three years, with separate companies in Japan, Korea, Spain and of course Australia, where it swept all the top awards and closed last week after an incredible nineteen month run. I am delighted to bring this hugely successful new production to Manila with this incredible cast.” Cameron Mackintosh said.

Playing the iconic role of Jean Valjean is established actor and musical theatre star Simon Gleeson, fresh from his stint as Prisoner 24601 in Australia. Simon has worked extensively in theatre, film and television in Australia and the UK, including performing in London’s prestigious West End. His portrayal as Jean Valjean has earned him a Helpmann Award for Best Male Actor in a Musical. “I’m so thrilled to be playing Valjean for the Manila season of LES MISÉRABLES,” Simon said. “With arguably the most breathtaking score in musical theatre history, LES MISÉRABLES transformed musical theatre when it first opened. The show remains iconic and relevant today because it deals with themes of love, courage, the human spirit and the difficult choices we make which define who we are and what we stand for.”

Dance and Contemporary Art Collide in Ballet Philippines' "Opera" on February 13-16

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Enter the world of Gabriel Barredo’s acclaimed creation in Ballet Philippines’ season ender, “Opera”. This production brings a synergy between artists and art forms, with French choreographer Redha transforming the groundbreaking installation into a contemporary ballet premiering at the CCP Main Theater on February 13 & 14, with a Fundraising Gala on February 16 at 8:00PM.

The original “Opera” exhibition was first presented at Silverlens Galleries in January 2015, and was recently toured to Singapore last November in time with the opening celebrations of the National Gallery Singapore. For the ballet, Barredo is creating a staggering array of new sculptures, which will comprise the production’s set design.

Redha’s choreography will guide us along a journey into a new experience of art. Envisioning his dancers on bare feet, pointe shoes, and stilettos, he is set to present a work that is stimulating, sensual, and groundbreaking. “Being part of this production is a great thrill for me,” shares Redha. “Meeting Gabby [Barredo] and seeing his work up close was very inspiring.”

“’Opera’ is shaping up to be one of the most innovative productions that Ballet Philippines has produced in a long time,” muses BP’s Artistic Director, Paul Alexander Morales. “We invite everyone to support it and to catch its limited performance run.”

Bailey May Launches Self-Titled Debut Album Under Star Records

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We first knew thirteen year old Fil-Brit Bailey May as the "Gwapito from UK" on the recent Pinoy Big Brother 737 edition in which he happily landed 4th place and a promising showbiz career ahead.

Who would have thought Bailey just recently launched his self-titled solo CD album under Star Music to the delight of his "Baileynatics" supporters. According to insider reports, his fans really wanted him to come up with an album right after his PBB stint.

After coming across his YouTube covers online some of which went viral, Inspirational Diva, Ms. Jamie Rivera became interested with Bailey's singing potential and immediately came up with a six-track album, two of which are her original compositions.

She penned, "Can You Be My Girl" and the carrier single out now, "Gusto Kita".

“I'm so blessed to have my own album and to have worked with such great writers and producers. It's also an awesome blessing that my dream has come to be a part of the Star Music Family. God is good,” beamed Bailey.