Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Royce Cabrera take ‘Endo’ to the stage

Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Royce Cabrera are confirmed as the lead stars of “Endo,” a theater adaptation of the 2007 Cinemalaya entry of the same name. 

Almost two decades since its release, “Endo” will be brought to the stage with Curtis-Smith and Cabrera taking on the roles of Tanya and Leo, respectively. The film originally starred Ina Feleo and Jason Abalos.

The play tells the story of Leo (Cabrera), lost in a cycle as the family’s breadwinner, with several temporary jobs, and struggles to maintain relationships. He soon meets a spirited dreamer named Tanya (Curtis-Smith) who wants to reach greater heights. As they begin a romance, Candy (Kate Alejandrino) returns to Leo’s life. 

Cast as the alternate for Leo is Esteban Mara; Tanya and Candy are played by Rissey Reyes-Robinson and Iana Bernardez, respectively.

“This stage adaptation of ‘Endo’ is set to bring heightened tension and raw romantic emotion to the story of Tanya and Leo. Every personal moment, choice, and hesitation draws the audience in, leaving them hooked to a story that is impossible to forget,” presenters PETA Plus and Ticket2Me said in a statement.

Melvin Lee directed the theater adaptation, while Liza Magtoto wrote the script.

Since its premiere at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, the film won Best Picture at the Gawad Urian awards, Special Jury Prize, and the Tanglaw Award for Best Picture.

The play will run from April 10 to May 10 at the PETA Theater Center.