‘Liwanag Sa Dilim’ musical extends theatrical run to May 4

The cast of “Liwanag sa Dilim” during a curtain call. Image: Geri Reyes of 9 Works Theatrical

“Liwanag Sa Dilim,” a jukebox musical featuring the music of singer-songwriter Rico Blanco, announced the extension of its theatrical run to May 4.

The musical will now run from March 7 to May 4, where more shows are added due to “overwhelming demand,” according to a press statement from theater production company 9 Works Theatrical.

“Liwanag sa Dilim” tells the story of Elesi, an orphaned NGO worker who’s determined to reconnect with his past. As he uncovers the secrets behind his identity, he forms a close friendship with Cris, and they form a revolution and battle for justice for their countrymen.

Khalil Ramos and Anthony Rosaldo alternately star as Elesi, while Vien King and CJ Navato portray the character of Cris.

Also part of the cast are Alexa Ilacad, Nicole Omillo, Arnel Carrion, Rita Daniela, Neomi Gonzales, Boo Gabunada, Jon Abella, Raul Montesa, Jasper John Jimenez, Rica Laguardia, Lani Ligot, Chez Cuenca, Paji Arceo, Iya Villanueva, Mark Tayag, Derrick Gozos, Brianna Bunagan, Lucylle Tan, and Denzel Chang.

According to the musical’s writer and director Robbie Guevara, “Liwanag Sa Dilim” was originally written in 2018 with a planned staging for March 2020; however, the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in its plans. Its storyline was eventually revisited two years later, with changes made to ensure that it would be more “fitting with the times.”

“When we decided to redo and finally produce the musical, we revisited how to make it more [fitting to the times] because a lot has changed in the past five years after the initial intended [production] date,” Guevara said during a press preview. “Does it reflect the current political landscape? It could’ve. But not fully. At that time, when we wrote this, we never thought [that things would turn out to be that way].”

While the musical features 40 of Blanco’s songs, Guevara clarified that songs from the singer-songwriter’s Rivermaya days made it to the final lineup, such as “Kisapmata,” “214,” “Elesi, “Ulan,” and “You’ll Be Safe Here,” to name a few.