Cebuano theater artist leads all-Filipino musical in Manila

NOW on its sophomore run, Resorts World Manila’s Bituing Walang Ningning: The Musical will be bringing back the glittering production with more stars and bigger performances this December and January at the award-winning Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City, Manila.

The all-Filipino production is upping the ante with upgrades in terms of design, music and cast, who recently wrapped up its successful road show here in the Queen City of the South. The musical stars theater’s newest darling, Cebuano artist Monica Cuenco, who is reprising her role as Dorina Pineda, a character previously portrayed by the Megastar, Sharon Cuneta, and Popstar Princess, Sarah Geronimo.

Joining the lead star are celebrated stage performer Mark Bautista, who plays talent manager Nico Escobar, singer Ronnie Liang playing musical director Garry Diaz, and returning talent Antoinette Taus, who alternates for theater actress Cris Villonco as popstar diva Lavinia Arguelles.

Other actors who will be reprising their roles in the production include Jay Roa as Zosimo Blanco, Jon Santos as Auntie, John Nite as Kuya Germs, Michael Williams as Larry Calma, and Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo as Edith.

Epy Quizon is also joining the cast as the alternate for Jon Santos. As its last show for the month ends today, this certified Pinoy production will resume its run at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays this December and January. DRB

*For more about the musical, including show schedules, check out www.rwmanila.com/web/bituing-walang-ningning/.