In a surprise move that has captured the attention of theatre-goers and critics alike, film and TV actor Martin del Rosario stunned the audience at the by-invitation preview of the provocative play Anino sa Likod ng Buwan. Known for his work in television and film, del Rosario did not disappoint and marked his highly anticipated debut in theatre.
The show, directed by Tuxqs Rutaquio, also stars seasoned thespians Elora Españo and Ross Pesigan. The two, with their extensive stage experience, proved to be right at home on the stage, offering their usual caliber of performances. However, it was del Rosario’s performance that truly captivated the crowd, especially considering the challenging and raw material the play presents.
Anino sa Likod ng Buwan is a psychodrama set against the backdrop of the early 1990s during the intense military operations in Marag Valley. The story revolves around three characters—Emma (Españo), her husband Nardo (Pesigan), and their friend Joel (Martin del Rosario), a soldier caught in the tangled web of love, politics, and betrayal. With only three characters in the entire play, each actor’s performance is crucial in bringing the story to life, and del Rosario’s portrayal of Joel was nothing short of remarkable.
Despite this being his first theatre production, del Rosario gave an impressive performance in a very bold and daring role. His portrayal of Joel is not just about the psychological depth of the character, but also about pushing boundaries, with moments of physical vulnerability that include a glimpse of his private parts. Given the material’s nature, the audience was understandably taken aback, but it was the emotional intensity del Rosario brought to the stage that left a more lasting impression.
The play, which originally premiered as a one-act play written by Jun Robles Lana in 1993, was later adapted into a film in 2015. The film, titled Shadow Behind the Moon internationally, starred LJ Reyes as Emma, Anthony Falcon as Nardo, and Luis (now Adrian) Alandy as Joel. The preview of the current adaptation from film to stage has impressed many with its rawness and psychological depth.
One of the standout reactions came from internationally acclaimed actress Dolly de Leon, who attended the preview. She expressed her pleasant surprise at del Rosario’s performance, noting that, despite being a film practitioner, it was very good. She had the biggest surprise because she didn’t expect to prove himself worthy of that stage. She is very excited to see the full production in March.
In an online interview with PalabasTayo.com, del Rosario admitted to feeling nervous before his first live performance, especially after hearing the chimes signaling the start of the show. “The nerves were there at first, but once I went on stage, it all disappeared,” del Rosario explained. “I was completely immersed in the role and in the world of the story. It was such an engaging experience, and I could feel the audience’s immediate reactions—laughter, tension, silence during the intense moments. It was exhausting, but in a good way.”
The play’s first-ever preview on February 8 left audiences eager for more, and del Rosario’s performance, though his first in theatre, has only added to the growing anticipation for the regular run. After the show, the actor was overwhelmed by the congratulatory messages he received from colleagues, industry professionals, and even those he idolizes, solidifying his excitement for the play’s upcoming full run.
Anino sa Likod ng Buwan is the maiden production of Idea First Live and will run from March 1 to 23, 2025, at the PETA Theater Center. Edward Benosa, Denise Esteban, and Vincent Pajara are the understudies of this production that is strictly for adults only, given the mature and provocative themes it explores.
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