‘Here Lies Love’ stirs emotions, controversy

by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress

IN a groundbreaking and historic feat, Broadway is witnessing the rise of “Here Lies Love,” an immersive theater spectacle that boldly shatters boundaries with an allFilipino cast. With each captivating performance, this musical delves into the complex story of Imelda Marcos, the former First Lady of the Philippines, and the tumultuous events surrounding the 1986 People Power Revolution.

From its powerful portrayals to its innovative immersive format, “Here Lies Love” is not just another Broadway production; it is a trailblazer that proudly embraces Filipino talent and history, making waves and etching its name in the annals of theater history.

With its innovative approach to immersive theater, the show transports spectators into the glitzy world of the 1980s, bringing them face-to-face with historical figures and heart-pounding moments. Led by a stellar all-Filipino cast, including the legendary Lea Salonga, this production has become a milestone in Filipino representation on Broadway and a celebration of a rich cultural heritage.

The show stands as a daring and innovative musical, drawing inspiration from the controversial life of Imelda Marcos, the wife of former Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos. While the show possesses moments of brilliance and creativity, it also grapples with a few shortcomings that hinder its overall impact.

David Byrne, the mastermind behind “Here Lies Love,” rightfully marvels at the show’s continued relevance nearly a decade after its off-Broadway premiere. “I had no idea that the politics would be so relevant not just in the Philippines, but all around the world, including this country,” he told AP.

With music by Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award-winning artists Byrne and Fatboy Slim, this immersive production invites the audience to become part of the show’s captivating narrative.

Under the direction of Tony Award winner Alex Timbers and featuring choreography by Olivier Award nominee Annie-B Parson, “Here Lies Love” transforms the Broadway Theatre into a vibrant dance club where the story of Imelda Marcos unfolds. The audience is given a range of standing and seating options that allow them to experience the performance from various perspectives, from the dance floor to elevated seating areas.

The production’s immersive concept, which envelops the audience in the world of the Marcos regime, is a commendable attempt at engaging theater-goers uniquely and dynamically. Props to set designer David Korins who transformed the orchestra of the Broadway Theater into a discotheque complete with ledges and a giant 42-inch mirror ball. The use of satellite stages, a 360-degree lighting design, and video screens add an interactive dimension that captivates the audience and fosters a sense of connection to the characters’ lives.

However, the musical’s bold take on some of the crucial historical events, while compelling, blurs the lines between fact and fiction. This has left some viewers questioning the accuracy of the purported romantic relationship between Benigno Aquino and Imelda Romualdez as graphics on the screen showed “Imelda’s boyfriend” when Aquino’s character was introduced. This creative license can be divisive, as some audience members may prefer a more historically accurate portrayal, while others appreciate the artistic interpretation.

The cast’s performances are nothing short of extraordinary.

Lea Salonga’s portrayal of Aurora Aquino, the mother of opposition leader Ninoy Aquino, is nothing short of sublime and an absolute show-stopper. Her remarkable vocal prowess and emotive delivery breathe life into the character, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. Salonga’s talent shines brightly, and her presence on stage is truly a high point of the production.

On the evening we watched, the audience exploded the moment Salonga emerged onstage. Kudos to the lighting director (and the moving stage) for creating an appropriately haunting and moving atmosphere.

Although her one-month stint in the production is set to conclude on August 13, the producers have hinted at even more surprises in store, including the possibility of enlisting other eminent stars from the Philippines to offer their unique interpretations of the poignant ballad, “Just Ask the Flowers,” performed by the character Dona Aurora Aquino at her son’s funeral.

Among the many unforgettable moments in the show, one particular scene stands out, signaling the start of the Marcoses’ fall from power. As Arielle Jacobs retakes the spotlight, belting out “Why Don’t You Love Me” from the elevated mezzanine level, the rest of the cast led by Salonga gathers below, flashing the iconic Laban sign—a powerful visual representation of

Marian Rivera, Heart Evangelista, Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis shine at GMA Gala 2023

MANILA —”It’s Showtime” co-hosts Anne Curtis and Vice Ganda looked radiant, while GMA-7’s most popular screen goddesses Marian Rivera, Heart Evangelista and Jennylyn Mercado owned the red carpet at last night’s GMA Gala 2023 held in Marriott Hotel in Pasay City.

The biggest stars of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 partied the night away in their best looks as the gala and the stars dominated social media trends, particularly Twitter.

Vice Ganda lived up to his moniker “Unkabogable” as he walked the red carpet in a sparkly gown with a white feather boa.

His “Showtime” sestra, Anne Curtis, looked simply elegant in a white Saint Lauren gown, complimented by clip-on bangs and accessories from Tiffany. Her look is obviously inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s famous movie character, Sabrina.

Marian Rivera was another effortless beauty in a white plisse gown as she walked down the red carpet with her equally gorgeous husband, actor Dingdong Dantes.

Jennylyn Mercado was a vision in green as she strutted with her husband, actor Dennis Trillo.

Heart Evangelista lived up to her chic fashionista vibe by donning a Schiaparelli creation.

Newly engaged couple Bea Alonzo and Dominic Roque walked the red carpet together, looking genuinely happy to attend the gala.

Kylie Padilla channeled her famous character, Amihan, from the 2016 fantasy show “Encantadia” in a custom Ehrran Montoya gown. Her TV sisters, Glaiza de Castro, Gabbi Garcia and Sanya Lopez, also made their presence known on the red carpet. (By Kathleen A. Llemit/Philstar.com) n