When I heard that PETA (Philippine Educational Theater Association) was doing a musical version of the hit movie One More Chance using the music of Ben & Ben, I was both excited and also curious on how this beloved 2007 romantic film by Star Cinema that starred John Lloyd Cruz as Popoy and Bea Alonzo as Basha, directed by Cathy Garcia Sampana, would be staged. It was a huge hit back then and even more so now that it can be seen on Netflix. Their performance in the film will forever be etched in cinematic history as one of the best rom-com tandems of all time.
When the cast for the musical was announced, there was no doubt it was going to be a showcase of amazing talent since most of them have proven to be seasoned actors throughout their career.
To be honest I had some trepidations on how the leads Sam Concepcion, CJ Navato, Nicole Omillo and Anna J Luna would be able to portray such iconic characters. Don’t get me wrong it’s not that I don’t believe in their talent and capacity to deliver a great performance, its just that they have really big shoes to fill. When I was invited to watch the Press Preview, I came into the theater with an open mind and also knowing that they have only rehearsed for 28 days and there could be a possibility of some technical problems since tech week is usually called hell week in theater, where they are still adjusting to a lot of things.
But as soon as the lights went on and the music played, I was immediately transported to the world of Popoy & Basha. The moment Sam Concepcion came out on stage, I saw Popoy. His performance was raw, riveting and authentic. His eyes said everything without uttering a word. I have seen Sam perform since he played Edward in The Lion Witch and The Wardrobe and literally saw him grow up in front of my eyes, and this is the best I have ever seen him in. There was even a point in the show where he just stood there and it brought me to tears cause he made Popoy his own. He evoked the same charm John Lloyd Cruz had in the film. It was one performance that will forever be etched in my memory as one of the best in Philippine musical theater.
It was also refreshing to see Anna J Luna’s feisty portrayal of Basha, where she confidently made her presence felt from beginning to end. And who can deny the scene stealing performances of Raul Montesa as Bert, Willie and the drunk man in one of the group numbers, and Neomi Gonzales’ portrayal of Popoy’s Aunt, Rose, an OFW in Korea was one for the books. We bought every single punch line she delivered.
Not to be outshined were the “Barkada” played by Poppert Bernadas as Kenneth, Rica Laguardia as Krizzy, Via Antonio as Anj, Jon Abella as JP, and Johnnie Moran as Chinno. Their chemistry was palpable and each gave one memorable performance after another. Oh how Via’s punchlines and comic timing stole every scene she was in.
As an actor, I know how daunting it is to do an original musical. For one you don’t know how it is going to turn out. But from what I watched, aside form the iconic songs of Ben & Ben, which was brilliantly arranged by Musical Director, Myke Salomon, it was the performance of each actor that made this show special with the ingenious direction of Maribel Legarda. Bravo to the rest of the cast Sheena Belarmino as Tricia, Jay Gonzaga as Mark, and the rest of the ensemble Chez Cuenca, Matthew Barbers, and Hazel Maranan.
I can’t wait to watch the other cast. I know most of the shows are sold-out but from what I heard there are new show dates, so there is still an opportunity for everyone to watch One More Chance, just go to the PETA website https://petatheater.com/ or Instagram https://www.instagram.com/petatheater/ page to see updates on the show.
One More Chance The Musical is a HIT!
Blessings,
