MUSICAL JOYRIDE

Drive back to the magical shows as Chitty City Bang Bang returns to the stage

Last October. theatergoers witnessed a one-of-a-kind family musical as Resorts World Manila (RWM), in cooperation with Full House Theater Company (FHTC), brought lan Fleming's Chitty C.hiny Bang Bang to the Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT) stage for a two-week run. This year, the British musical is driving back to the stage for another run from February 22 co March 25. The show promises comedy, fairytale, action. romance, and drama in one must-see show. It also features an all-Filipino cast headlined by seasoned stage stars Gian Magdangal, Yanah Laurel, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Raymund Concepcion. and James Nona, together with young stars Albert Silos, Noel Comia. lsabeli Araneta Elizalde, and Zoey Alvarade. The musical has received much praise from notable people such as National Artist Benediao "BenCab" Cabrera saying This local production of a British classic with an all-Filipino cast was simply magical." Comedian and theater actor Jon Santos said: "I love the sense of family that it reminds us of—that being together we can achieve great things. The production and its message is truly multi-generational. It's a must-watch!" Stage director Freddie Santos gave his fondness for the cast and technical aspect of the show. "There is an advantage to having an cast because Filipinos have such an ear and feel for music, and the musical has some of the loveliest musk by the Sherman Brothers, he stated. Some notable actors TO watch out for on stage include Michael Williams who will reprise his role as the helpful Toymaker and Lorenz Martinez as the unsettling Child Catcher. Actors Maim Alonso and Reb Atadero will also be back playing sidekicks Boris and Goran. Capping off the show's A•list cast and crew are some of the most respected names in the industry, including director Jaime del Mundo, vocal coach Lyn Fabella, lighting man Jonjon Villareal, sound engineer Bards Corpus, choreographer Nancy Crowe, set designer Mk Infante. videographer GA FaHume. and costume designer Bonsai Cielo.