MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Starting October 05, Repertory Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA) will stage Jepoy and the Magic Circle in its new home, REP Theater at Citywalk, Eastwood City, Quezon City.
Jepoy and the Magic Circle tells the story of Jepoy, a young boy who lives with his mother, Aling Barang, and their dog, Galis, at the edge of a vast forest. What begins as an ordinary laundry day quickly becomes an extraordinary adventure when Galis snatches a dress and runs into the woods. As Jepoy follows, he stumbles into a magical realm brimming with legendary Filipino characters and creatures fighting to preserve their home.
Directed by the esteemed Joy Virata, the interactive fantasy musical for children of all ages is based on the Palanca Award-winning short story The Magic Circle by cultural icon and literary legend Gilda Cordero Fernando.
The award-winning playwright and director Rody Vera wrote the English adaptation, marking his first collaboration with REP. Ejay Yatco is the musical director behind the music and lyrics.
“Jepoy and the Magic Circle introduces children to Filipino magical creatures and animals through vibrant costumes, songs, dances, and puppetry,” said Joy.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to gain an appreciation of their Filipino culture and heritage and understand the importance of taking good care of the environment, and of course, experience quality children’s theater.”
Sharing the role of Jepoy are Noel Comia Jr., a three-time Aliw Award winner and the youngest-ever Cinemalaya Best Actor; Elian Dominguez; a Philippine LEAF Award nominee who honed his talent in university theater; and Yhuan Gatbunton, a singer-songwriter, music producer, and actor who has appeared in various TV, commercial, and theater projects. Gawad Buhay awardee Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante is joining them as Aling Barang, with Abi Sulit and Ring Antonio alternating in the role. Different versions of the mischievous dog Galis are brought to life by versatile actors Francis Gatmaytan and Cara Barredo.
The Kapre, a central figure in the story, is depicted by the experienced Hans Eckstein, Julienne Mendoza, and Joey Vargas;. At the same time, Paqui is portrayed by Joshua Cabiladas, Stephen Viñas, Luis Marcelo, and Franco Ramos. The enigmatic Doña Geronima is played by the renowned Pinky Marquez, along with Abi and Ring. Playing Pedro are Lance Soliman and Sean Nolasco, while Silveria is brought to life by Monica Tulio and Ayla Garcia. Mikki and Paula Paguio alternate as Maria Sinukuan, Cara and Barbara Jance are Maria Makiling, and Jay Barrameda and Mica Fajardo are Maria Cacao.
The ensemble includes a diverse and talented group of performers. Completing the cast are Chesko Rodriguez, Broey Divinagracia, Ado Villanueva, JV Fulgencio, Jae Valencia, Deo Dela Cruz, VJ Cortel, Kenny Isidoro, Jay Pangilinan, Chan Rabutazo, Dindo Divinagracia, Gabo Tiongson, Pablo Palacpac, Sebastian Katigbak, Ian Hermogenes, Bea Remollo, Jana Cabiladas, Katie Bradshaw, Alyanna Wijangco, Nyla Festejo, Jacqui Jacinto, Cheska Quimno, Meg Salud, Francesca Mata, Daniella Albano, and Ayam Eckstein.
The creative team is equally impressive, with Cara assisting in the direction and Stephen handling the choreography with Francis as associate choreographer. The magical world is brought to life by Mio Infante for set design, Raven Ong for costume design with Hershee Tantiado as associate costume designer, Kayla Teodoro for puppet design, GA Fallarme for projection design, and John Batalla for lighting design.
REP President and CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio expressed how Jepoy and the Magic Circle marks an exciting new chapter for the theater company as the first production to be staged in Eastwood.
“The REP Theater at Citywalk, Eastwood City, marks a significant milestone for REP. We can’t wait to welcome a new generation of theater enthusiasts and further contribute to the thriving theater scene in the Philippines,” said Mindy.
“We’re proud to celebrate a new dawn for REP with a production that puts our Filipino culture and heritage front and center as we look forward to enriching more lives through the power and magic of theater.”
Jepoy and the Magic Circle opens on October 2024. For show-buying and ticket inquiries, contact REP at 0966-905-4013 or 0962-691-8540 or send an email to promotions@repphil.org or sales@repphil.org.
