That is what I can say confidently to all (and even you) as I witnessed the cast played the songs that has been playing in my head after the press preview of Maxie the Musical (Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros) at the PETA Theater this November.
Maxie the Musical inspired from the indie movie which won awards and shown in international film festivals was also a hit in the Theatrical version. With songs made by great composers/singers William Elvin Manzano, JJ Pimpinio, and Janine Santos. Direction and choreography by Dexter M. Santos.
Bringing to life the busy yet chaotic community of Sampaloc is the set design which would look depressing which the setting was meant to. First impression may fool you but when the characters emerge and do their stuff especially the songs and choreography, you would see a different world emerging. The songs in the musical were already been playing in our heads since the first sneak peak back in "Patikim ng Shlight" which many would love to see an album of the songs of the musical. Well as of this writing, I am singing "Gising Gising" at midnight.
Leading the cast is the bubbly Maxie portrayed by Jayvhot Galang, Jojo Riguerra as the policeman Victor. The 'Barako' Oliveros Family played by Nazer Salcedo, Al Gatmaitan, Jay Gonzaga, and OJ Mariano. The "Beki" gang played by Aaron Ching, Teetin Villanueva and Nomer Limatog Jr. Promise, you will love them all despite their very opposite personalities.
I have not seen the original indie movie, but aware of its recognition internationally, which assures me that it did good in the silver screen. Now the challenge is how to bring it to life in live theater. Having the creators of the movie loving to see the story on stage makes the production a labor of love and passion. The real challenge is how to execute them into the theatrical fashion. Being from Sampaloc myself, I am familiar of the culture there and was presented in a creative and artistic style, but not too much which would ruin the mood.
Maxie was not only focused on the gay life of Maximo Oliveros, but also the lives of the people around him, the police, the residents, the festivals, and all the things that complete the authentic Sampaloc lifestyle. It was a roller coaster of emotions with light to heavy scenes that will definitely touch emotions, as you may feel the love, the hate, and even the stupidity that moves the viewers.
Why is it the best Filipino musical of the year? Well it can also be viewed by its totality with all the Filipino elements of love of family, festivities, resilience to poverty, and experiencing love stands out. And of course, let us not forget to include everyone's favorite segment, the BeauCon (Beauty Contest).
"Maxie The Musical" by Bit by Bit Company runs until December 8, 2013 at the PETA Theater.
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