It seems like just yesterday that Walang Aray, the modern zarzuela from the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), captivated audiences with its witty humor and heartfelt story. But time flies, and now, the beloved musical is back for a third restaging, a testament to its enduring charm and undeniable appeal. This isn’t just a simple repeat performance; it’s a revival that proves that some stories, like good wine, only get better with time. For those who missed the previous runs, this is your chance to witness the magic, and for those who have seen it before, prepare to fall in love all over again. The return of Walang Aray is a celebration—a joyous reminder of how a classic tale can be made new again without losing its soul. It’s a show that continues to resonate with audiences, blending history with hilarity and romance with revolution in a way that feels both timeless and perfectly of the moment.
A Timeless Plot with a Modern Twist
Inspired by Severino Reyes’ 1898 zarzuela, this modern musical takes a familiar story and injects it with contemporary humor, pop culture references aplenty, and an abundance of Filipino wit. The plot centers on Julia (Marynor Madamesila), a beautiful and spirited zarzuela headliner, who is deeply in love with Tenyong (Jon Abella), a bachelor turned revolutionary fighter. However, their love is complicated by the presence of Julia’s mother, Juana (Jolina Magdangal), and the richest man in the village, Don Tadeo (Csairus Habla), who conspire to marry Julia off to Lucas’ son, Miguel (Bene Manaois). The stakes are raised with the arrival of the Spanish authorities at the behest of the local curate Padre Alfaro (Roi Calilong), who pursues Tenyong for his revolutionary activities. This is where the farcical elements of the show begin to shine, as the characters find themselves in a series of increasingly absurd situations, all while trying to evade capture and, in the case of Tenyong and Julia, find a way to be together. Despite the historical setting and the serious subject matter of the revolution, the play maintains a lighthearted tone, focusing on the comedic misunderstandings and romantic entanglements of the protagonists.
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Production and Artistic Choices that Actually Made Sense
Under the masterful direction of Ian Segarra, with music and lyrics by Vince Lim and Rody Vera, Walang Aray is a perfect storm of an enduring love story, smart and witty writing, and songs that soar through the air like fireworks against a summer sky. The production makes a number of artistic choices that give the musical its unique charm. The set design by Julio Garcia cleverly sets the scene, creating a “play within a play” aesthetic that feels like you’ve been granted a peek into the backstage of a theater.
This approach brilliantly explains the less-than-realistic quality of the props and the farcical situations the characters find themselves in, inviting the audience to embrace the over-the-top theatricality of it all. It’s a production that fully understands and celebrates its roots in the zarzuela tradition. From the vibrant costumes to the dynamic choreography and the choice to keep breaking the fourth wall, every element works in harmony to immerse you in a world where history meets hilarity. This deliberate choice to lean into the artifice of the stage elevates the experience, making the emotional and comedic beats land with even greater impact. The result is a show that is not only entertaining but also a clever commentary on the very nature of our rich theatrical heritage.
The Performances
The success of Walang Aray is built on the strength of its performances, led by Marynor Madamesila as Julia. Her powerful vocals are only matched by her full commitment to the character, portraying a heroine who is anything but a wilting flower. Her Julia is a strong-willed (if a bit ditzy) modern leading lady, a perfect counterpoint to the traditional swooning zarzuela damsel.
Adding to the stellar cast is the inimitable Jolina Magdangal as Doña Juana. It’s a delight to see her on stage. Her impeccable comedic timing is a clear testament to her versatility and mastery of her craft. Her addition is a welcome one, unlike the usual celebrity-driven stunt casting, Magdangal truly adds to the value of the production. The chemistry among the cast is palpable, with Manaois and Calilong as Miguel and Padre Alfaro, respectively, often stealing every scene they’re in. Their performances are a great example of comedic support, creating uproariously funny moments that shook the house.
The Secret Sauce
The secret behind the enduring success of Walang Aray lies in its ability to honor its source material while keeping a keen ear to the ground for a new generation. The show does not underestimate the intelligence of its audience; it trusts them to grasp its cultural references and does not apologize for its uniquely Filipino humor. It never feels the need to explain its jokes, allowing them to land with an authentic, unforced rhythm.
Most importantly, the musical never pretends to be something it isn’t. It embraces its identity as a modern zarzuela, celebrating its theatricality and heritage without feeling the need to conform to globalized theater trends. This down-to-earth authenticity is exactly what Philippine theater needs: a production that is both a respectful nod to the past and a confident stride into the future, proving that our stories, told in our own voice, are more than enough.
A Love Letter to Philippine Theater
With its irresistible charm, Walang Aray is a must-see for anyone who appreciates clever, heartfelt musical theater. It’s a show that proves a classic Filipino story can be made fresh and relevant for a new generation without sacrificing its soul. From its sharp, witty script to its fresh musical numbers and a cast that delivers strong performances, every element of this production shines. It’s an unforgettable experience that will leave you laughing, singing, and maybe even shedding a tear. In a year of strong contenders, both local and international adaptations, Walang Aray is truly the best show so far for 2025—a joyous, vibrant celebration of love, resistance, and the timeless magic of Philippine theater.
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