Manila, Philippines — The all-original Filipino musical, Walang Aray, a whip-smart, side-splitting reimagining of Severino Reyes’ classic zarzuela Walang Sugat, returns for a limited three-weekend run at the PETA Theater Center from October 6–22, 2023.
Witty and hilarious from start to finish, Walang Aray is a spoof and tribute to the iconic zarzuela.
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The show is a mashup of old and new, tackling the themes of love, nationalism, and patriotism with a mix of catchy tunes, pop culture references, irreverent humor, witty wordplays, and one-liner jabs that will leave audiences in stitches.
Chosen to launch PETA’s comeback after waiting in the wings in 2018 and 2019, Walang Aray closed its initial 41-show run with multiple sold-out shows, drawing audiences old and new with its unique brilliance and charm.
The musical recently swept 21 citations from Gawad Buhay! the country’s premier recognition awards for the local theater scene, including Outstanding Book of a Musical, Outstanding Original Musical, Outstanding Original Score, Outstanding Musical Direction, Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Musical, Outstanding Stage Direction for a Musical, Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Sound Design, and Outstanding Set Design.
Gio Gahol and Marynor Madamesila, together with Shaira Opsimar and Jon Abella are leading the cast with their outstanding portrayals of the star-crossed lovers Tenyong and Julia, which also earned them citations for the Female and Male Lead Performance in a Musical in the Gawad Buhay! Awards.
Apart from the sharp comedy and contemporary reflections, the highlight of the show is the crisp chemistry of the PETA Ensemble, which has been the heart and soul of many PETA productions.
Walang Aray’s returning ensemble cast includes Jarred Jaicten and Bene Manaois as Miguel, Kiki Baento as Monica, Carlon Matobato as Lucas, Norbs Portales and Csai Habla as Don Tadeo, Neomi Gonzales as Doña Juana, and John Moran as Padre Alfaro. Joining them are the equally memorable ensemble: Donn Boco, Gerard Dy, Yeyin Dela Cruz, Ada Tayao, and Ayla Garcia, who all shine in their multiple roles.
Walang Aray is written by Rody Vera, with music by Vince Lim, directed by Ian Segarra, and choreography by Gio Gahol.
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