Watching Bar Boys: The New Musical for the second time, I found myself just as immersed as the first, if not more so. The production still hits close to home with its vibrant storytelling, energetic performances, and powerful reflections on the sacrifices needed to chase dreams and get even just a slice of justice. It’s the kind of show that grows on you, revealing new layers with each viewing.

The musical, adapted from the 2017 Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino film by Kip F. Oebanda, follows four friends—Erik (Benedix Ramos), Chris (Alex Diaz), Josh (Omar Uddin), and Torran (Jerom Canlas)—each with unique backgrounds and struggles, as they go through the journey of law school. Together, they navigate the pressures of exams, personal sacrifices, and evolving friendships. What makes Bar Boys so compelling is its simplicity and accessibility—whether or not you’ve studied law, its exploration of ambition, self-doubt, and the relentless pursuit of justice is both easy to understand and deeply relatable.

One of the highlights is the impactful song “May Singil ang Pangarap”, which serves as the emotional anchor of the play. Its message reverberates throughout the narrative, reminding us that every achievement comes at a cost—something that resonates not only with law students but with anyone striving for a better future.

This timely revival also resonates deeply with the Philippines’ current socio-political landscape, where the pursuit of justice is often loaded with challenges. The show painfully reflects on the moral dilemmas of young lawyers, drawing parallels to the realities of accountability and change in today’s society. It encourages the audience to question authority while emphasizing the value of integrity and hope—a message that feels especially urgent now.

The cast delivers standout performances that bring both humor and heart to the story. Each character is distinct yet relatable, allowing the audience to see a reflection of their own struggles within the friends’ journeys. The production’s ability to balance light-hearted moments with emotional depth keeps the story engaging and far from preachy.

Moreover, Myke Salomon’s score adds a unique layer, blending Filipino sensibilities with pop-culture elements, such as video game motifs that represent the highs and lows of the law school journey. This approach appeals to younger audiences while staying grounded in the musical’s deeper themes.

Bar Boys showcases the talent and creativity of local theater. Its relevance, humor, and emotional depth make it an unforgettable experience for theatergoers. More than just a story of friendship and law school struggles, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of integrity, accountability, and hope in a time when these values are sorely needed.

Despite the harsh realities, Bar Boys offers a glimmer of hope, reminding us that change is possible and success awaits those with the heart to pursue it. It reassures us that even in a world stacked against the next generation, individuals can carve their own path, stand by their beliefs, and uphold values that define genuine goodness.

You still have a chance to experience this powerful production as Bar Boys: The New Musical is extended for ONE MORE WEEK!

Tickets are sold out until November 3, but you can still get tickets to any of the 6 additional #BarBoys2024 shows from November 7 to 10, 2024.

Get your tickets via bit.ly/barboystickets or barefootcollab.helixpay.ph.

#BareFootCollaborative

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About the Author

Apple Gamboa is the Life Editor of SubSelfie.com.

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

She was previously a 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.