This time, it’s different. Mula sa Buwan returns to the stage this 2024 with a restaging that defies tradition and pushes the boundaries of Philippine theater. As someone who’s experienced this show eight times, I’ve come to expect something fresh with every performance, but nothing could have prepared me for the boldness and intensity of this latest version.

Originally conceived as a rock musical adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac, Mula sa Buwan first captivated audiences in 2016 by reimagining the classic tale in 1940s wartime Manila originally created by Pat Valera and William Elvin Manzano. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn world, it tells the story of Cyrano, a passionate yet self-doubting poet, who navigates the complexities of love and identity. Infused with Filipino sensibilities, the musical masterfully weaves themes of love, defiance, and resilience, creating a narrative that resonates deeply with the Filipino experience and leaves a lasting impact.

The moment the show opened, it was clear this wasn’t the Mula sa Buwan we had seen before. What started as a simple light projection quickly gave way to a grand, meticulously crafted set that left the audience in awe, the changes even further intensified the feeling that this is the musical we’ve loved through the years. The design and direction felt so fresh and vibrant, with a meticulous attention to detail that made the experience more grounded and closer to reality.

Costume design by Bonsai Cielo further emphasized the period and circumstances of each scene, enhancing the authenticity of the setting.

From the bold and risky choices in the storytelling to the jaw-dropping set and lighting design by Ohm David and Meliton Roxas Jr., every aspect of the musical has been refined to its sharpest and most polished form yet. The choreography by JM Cabling elevated the emotions, making every movement count and showcasing the cast’s skill and flexibility to a whole new level, while Joyce Garcia’s video design added depth and impact, perfectly capturing the mood and era.

The performances were equally stellar. Gab Pangilinan’s portrayal of Roxane was radiant, her voice soothing the soul like a songbird, while Paw Castillo, who played Cyrano on gala night as Myke’s cover surprised all of us as he perfectly captured the character’s fragility, vulnerability, and humor.

We definitely couldn’t miss seeing Myke Salomon take on the role and as expected, he embodied the poet with a playful mastery that brought a new braver and more defiant dimension to the character.

MC Dela Cruz’s portrayal of Christian was heartfelt, his rendition of “Matatapos Din” resonating with hope amidst the despair of war. Phi Palmos, as Rosanna, brought strength and vulnerability to the role, portraying the complex emotions of the character with grace. Maximo, portrayed by Brian Sy, adds vibrant energy and wit to Mula sa Buwan, standing out as both comic relief and a symbol of resilience.

The direction by Mikko Angeles was nothing short of brilliant, balancing humor and tragedy with such clarity that it made the storytelling even more poignant and impactful. This is the most intricate and intentional restaging of Mula sa Buwan yet, and it shows in every element of the production.

Even for those of us who have seen the show many times, this version stands apart. It’s not just a rerun; it’s a revival, a restaging that breathes new life into the beloved musical. The emphasis on key scenes was stronger, the magic of Mula sa Buwan never fading but instead, shining brighter than ever. The standing ovation at the end was well-deserved—a testament to the defiance, resilience, and love that the musical so beautifully encapsulates.

Barefoot Theatre Collective, one of our country’s younger theater companies, has truly outdone itself with this production. The clarity of the storytelling, the spine and core of the play, and every one’s longing to escape to the moon to avoid the world’s pain and injustices were all felt deeply. In the midst of war, when defeat seems inevitable, it is memories of home, hope, and love that keep us fighting, and this latest staging of Mula sa Buwan powerfully reminds us of that enduring truth.

This year’s Mula sa Buwan is a powerful testament to the Filipino spirit of defiance and resilience, making it more than just a musical—it’s a movement.

Mula sa Buwan still has shows until September 8, 2024 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets for all show dates are now available through Ticketworld or by visiting bit.ly/msb2024tickets . For more details, head over to mulasabuwan.com .

About the Author

Apple Gamboa is the Life Editor of SubSelfie.com.

She is also the Senior Executive for Corporate Communications for Canon Marketing Philippines.

She was previously the Content Lead for Maya, Media Relations Manager for Ogilvy Philippines, and an interview and field producer for GMA News programs Quick Response Team and News to Go. She was also a producer of lifestyle TV shows and documentaries. Travelling and music are her passion, and taking risks is her reality medicine. Journalism 2010, UST. Read more of her articles here.