Some of the hottest names in today’s music and theatre scene are taking on major roles in the hit Filipino rock opera ballet, RAMA, HARI, which features direction and choreography by National Artist Alice Reyes and music by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab, with lyrics and libretto by National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera, Production design by National Artist Salvador Bernal and Translations by National Artist Rolando Tinio.
Gian Magdangal, fresh from his awarded run in 2022’s Carousel, and operatic stunner Arman Ferrer are Rama, with 2020 Gawad Buhay Awardee Vien King alternating.
Musical theater stars Karylle Tatlonghari, and Shiela Valderrama-Martinez take on the lead role of Sita, with fresh-face Nica Tupas alternating.
Tackling the kontrabida role of demon king Ravana are Rak of Aegis star Poppert Bernadas and Los Angeles-based musical theater actor Mathew San Jose making his Manila debut. Jonel Mojico alternates.
Theater icon Audie Gemora plays King Dasaratha in all shows.
Up-and-coming theater artists, Miah Canton, and Raflesia Bravo tackle the dual roles of Soorpanakha and Kooni, while Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana do double duty as Kaikeyi and “Gintong Usa.”
Paw Castillo and Jon Abella take on the roles of Rama’s Younger Brother, Lakshmana, and the monkey general Hanuman.
Arman says of the role, “It has been my dream role since we did it back in 2017 at the ASEAN Opening Ceremonies. I have a lot of friends at Alice Reyes Dance Philippines and I’m really excited to work with them again.”
“I’m so excited to be doing this show with Alice Reyes Dance Philippines. This is a dream role and I am so grateful.” Shiela also shares.
Karylle says: “I’m excited to see what RAMA, HARI will become this 2023.”
RAMA, HARI is based on the ancient Sanskrit epic Ramayana which follows Prince Rama from his marriage to Sita, their 14-year banishment, and their encounters with the evil Ravana and his sister Soorpanakha.
RAMA, HARI is presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and features the artists of the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) and the CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program (PASP), with guests from Guang Ming College, and other regional schools who actively participated in previous ARDP and PASP Productions.
SHOW SCHEDULE:
September 15, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Metropolitan Theater
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*
September 22, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater*
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater*
*With live music performed by The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth
FUTURE SHOWS:
CARMEN AND OTHER SPIRITS, a mixed bill featuring Alice Reyes’ CARMEN with Production Design by National Artist Salvador Bernal, and new works by young Filipino choreographers.
Oct. 20-21, 27-28, 2023
PUSO NG PASKO, an all-Filipino Christmas Ballet celebrating Paskong Pinoy and paying homage to the different fiestas across the Philippine islands. Set to the timeless music of our favorite Filipino Christmas carols arranged by National Artist for Music, Ryan Cayabyab.
Dec. 1-2, 2023
Subscribe to ARDP’s 2023 Dance Season and celebrate the best of Filipino artistry and talent! For season subscriptions and ticket reservations, email ardancephilippinesinc@gmail.com. For more information, check @ARDancePh on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
About ARDP
Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) is the newest and most exciting addition to the Filipino dance scene. Its goal is to inspire and transform lives through dance. Born out of the need to give displaced artists a home during the pandemic. Founded by National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, the company features an astounding breadth of Filipino Works by National Artists and the top Filipino choreographers. It showcases the best Filipino dancers and talents for the local and world stages.