Bobby Garcia, renowned theater director and producer, dies at 55

Bobby Garcia. Image: Bobby Garcia’s official website

Bobby Garcia, a director and producer renowned for his work in the theater industry, has died, his family confirmed through his friend, Boy Abunda. He was 55 years old.

Garcia’s death was announced on the December 18 broadcast of “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” where the talk show host and entertainment columnist extended his condolences.

“Kami po ay nakikiramay sa pamilya at sa mga mahal sa buhay ni Bobby Garcia (I want to extend my condolences to Bobby Garcia’s family and loved ones),” he said. “Bobby was one of the most beautiful persons inside and out na nakilala ko po sa tanang buhay ko (whom I met in my entire life).”

No cause of death was mentioned.

Abunda said Garcia will be missed, saying he is sure the latter would go to heaven.

“You will be missed, and wherever you are, I know you’re in heaven. But Bobby, I want you to know that you’re loved. Maraming, maraming salamat (Thank you very much),” he said.

His final projects include “Request Concert” for Theatre Group Asia, and the silent play “Request Sa Radyo” which starred Lea Salonga and Dolly de Leon as its alternate leads.

Garcia founded the theater Atlantis Productions (or Atlantis Theatrical Group of Companies) in 1999, which was noted as one of “Asia’s most prolific and successful theatre companies,” on his official website. He directed over 50 plays and led 65 productions throughout his career.

He earned his Bachelor’s Degree at Fordham University in New York and holds a master’s degree in Fine Arts degree in Directing for Theatre from the University of British Columbia.

Among his notable stage productions include Dolly Parton’s “Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol” in Canada (Arts Club Theatre Company), and the Manila and Singapore staging of the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, to name a few.

Garcia was also the associate director for the 2000 and 2001 staging of “Miss Saigon,” and was one of Cameron Mackintosh’s casting representatives for its revival and UK Tour. He also served as the first show director of the opening of Hong Kong Disneyland in 2005.