Ibarra, The Musical, is currently the talk of the local entertainment world not only because it coincides with the 125th anniversary of Philippine independence this month but also because topnotch actor and matinee idol Piolo Pascual is playing the title role. Much has been written about Pascual for this brave feat but there are still many other reasons why the musical will soar to greater heights as the 10 shows start to unfold. For our piece today, we take a closer look at the other men of this musical—all gallant, gorgeous and genuinely gifted.
Aside from making a lot of heads turn, Carlos Canlas is certainly making a lot of people take a closer look at what he has to offer. Canlas takes on the role of Alferez, and at the same time he is designated as the understudy of Ibarra.
“I have to admit that there is pressure being the understudy of Piolo. Most Filipinos know who he is and the kind of popularity he has. So even if I stay focused on the role of Ibarra, I can’t just take that pressure away while learning Ibarra’s lines and songs. It helps that I have already worked with Piolo in some of his television engagements. That guy is a wonderful person and a truly committed artist.”
Canlas can shift from television to theater and film with ease, perhaps from years of experience doing these acting jobs. “I am so easy to deal with. As long as my schedules permit and the role is good, then it’s a go. There is so much competition in the acting market that’s why most of the time, being too choosy will get you nowhere. I understand that I have yet to carve a name for myself, which is why my goal is to improve my craft and just be a team player on the set, hoping that the producers and the directors will see my worth as a dependable actor.”
Neil Tolentino is a veteran actor who has given life to many theater characters, and he has graced the big and small screens too. As Don Tiburcio in Ibarra, he is expected to give the musical a boost of his thespic skills.
Tolentino recently celebrated 30 wonderful years with his other half Irene, perhaps as long as he has immersed himself in the acting business. “This is the profession I chose, and this is what makes me fulfilled as a person. I always tell the younger generation of actors to do what they love and love what they do, and, if possible, do it with people you love and those you love and value you.”
Jon-Joven Uy is a well-loved performance artist and theater veteran who has traveled the world, both as a flight attendant and an actor.
“Theater was my world for a very long time. I’m lucky to have done My Fair Lady, South Pacific, West Side Story, Jesus Christ Superstar, Phantom of the Opera. The songs stayed in my heart for a long time too. I was part of Miss Saigon, and I got the chance to give life to Thuy for the German edition of this popular musical,” he shared. Uy also flew for United Airlines for a few years and traveled the world. “But acting always lured me back. I’m happy that I am part of Ibarra. Performing in front of your home crowd is just so different, and the experience is always priceless.”
The teenage boy from the vocal group Smokey Mountain has certainly gone a long way. Jeffrey Hidalgo is not only a singer-actor but he has also embraced directing. “While still young and able, I like to explore whatever avenue will help me improve as an artist. That’s why all these years, I’ve dabbled in singing, acting, hosting and now directing for film. When the role of Elias landed on my lap, I knew I have to give it my time and my priority since this is a dream role for many, plus I get to act with a good friend who’s playing the title role.”
Another flight attendant who has found time to be part of the Ibarra cast is Kevin Posadas, alternating with Hidalgo for the role of Elias.
“Theater is my first love and I am grateful that I get to be part of this musical, and be one with all these passionate actors and the wonderful production team that I can learn so much from. It certainly gives me a different kind of high, so different from working above the clouds with the airline.”
Padre Damaso wasn’t supposed to be the role for Floyd Tena but destiny intervened and he ended being cast for this wonderful role. “It is a complex character. Many know him as villain but when I started to dissect Damaso, I discovered the humane, vulnerable side of him.”
Ibarra, The Musical is doubly special for single dad Tena because his son JD is also cast as Basilio. “It’s interesting that I also played Basilio in Floy Quintos’s Isang Panginip na Fili when I first found myself in theater. And now my son is playing Basilio and we are together in one musical. I often catch myself teary-eyed during rehearsals watching my son who has become so passionate and happy as a young a musical actor.”
Ibarra, The Musical will run at the GSIS Theater from June 8 to June 18.