Ricky Davao, composer-producer Jack Teotico, actress-producer Gina Respall, and actor Jake Macapagal

MANILA -- “Silver Lining Redux,” the reimagined version of Jack Teotico's original musical, returns to the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in Makati this November, bringing audiences on a powerful journey through Philippine history and generational conflicts. 

Initially staged in 2023, the production captivated audiences with its poignant portrayal of life under Martial Law, seen through the eyes of high school friends Leo, Anton, and Raul as they confront the traumas of their youth and face the complexities of generational differences. 

This year’s “Redux” version deepens these themes, drawing in a wider audience, especially young Filipinos, with added songs, refined script, and intensified dramatic arcs.

The story revolves around Leo’s ambitious idea of staging a musical as a tribute to their late friend Chito during a high school reunion. Through vivid flashbacks, audiences revisit the characters’ youthful romances, fierce interschool rivalries, and involvement in a resistance movement during the Marcos dictatorship. 

The return of Leo’s lost love, Julia — a student activist who vanished under mysterious circumstances during Martial Law — evokes questions about personal and political betrayal that haunt the older generation, while awakening curiosity in their children.

This “Redux” production taps into the memories and hardships of the Baby Boomer generation while resonating with millennials and Gen Z viewers. Today’s young audience may find themselves questioning the political history they’ve inherited and understanding the struggles their parents once faced under authoritarian rule.

“This musical is a bridge,” said Teotico of Gallery Joaquin. “It’s about seeing the silver lining amidst dark times, for every generation.” As Leo, Anton, and Raul’s children push back on their elders’ memories, they unearth difficult truths about the Martial Law years, sparking a cross-generational conversation on the trauma, resilience, and the enduring quest for justice and hope.

Running at the Carlos P. Romulo auditorium of the RCBC Plaza in Makati for two weekend, from Nov. 8 to 10 and Nov. 15 to 17, “Silver Lining Redux” is a must-see for young Filipinos to both celebrate and learn from the resilience of those who lived through one of the darkest periods of the nation’s history.

Returning cast, new members

Returning cast members include Ricky Davao as Leo, Raul Montesa as Raul, Albert Silos as Young Leo, Jay Cortez as Young Raul, Krystal Brimner as Julia, Sara Sicam as Young Josie, Dippy Arceo as Dalai, and Rodel Pingol in the ensemble.

New additions to the cast are Jake Macapagal as Anton, Gina Respall as Josie, Don Tayco as Rico, Chesko Rodriguez as Mart, Raflesia Bravo as Agnes, Drei Sugay as Young Anton, Moi Gealogo as Chito, with Nayr De Luna, Sam Marasigan, Misha Fabian, and Nadia Tuviera joining the ensemble.

Aside from Teotico’s music and lyrics, “Silver Lining Redux” is brought to life by Joshua Lim So and Liza Magtoto (book and additional lyrics). Direction is helmed by PETA’s artistic director Maribel Legarda (“One More Chance,” “Rak of Aegis,” “Care Divas”), while Vince Lim (“Walang Aray”) contributes musical direction, arrangement, and additional music. PJ Rebullida (choreography), Charles Yee (set design), Tata Tuviera (costume design), Meliton Roxas (lighting design), and Joyce Garcia (video design) round out the creative team.

Collection of songs

Reflecting on the musical’s origins, Teotico shared that the initial production was inspired by a collection of songs he had written over the years. "Making a musical and an entire theatrical production inspired by a list of songs one had written through the years is something that one can only dream of in one's lifetime," Teotico said.

Originally staged last year, the musical garnered significant praise and encouragement, prompting Teotico to revisit and refine the show. “Inspired by enthusiastic audiences and reviews, we decided to do “Silver Lining Redux,” he explained, adding that the new version includes additional songs, improved production values, and expanded themes of love and friendship.

Teotico emphasized that the show is more than nostalgia; it’s a call to younger generations to understand the challenges and joys faced by their parents' generation. 

“Silver Lining Redux” follows two timelines: one tracing the youth of the Baby Boomer generation through "class parties and ligawan days" and intense "scholastic rivalries," and another featuring the struggles and aspirations of today’s young adults. From moments like "our then inept university basketball team finally finding the grit and courage to make it to the championship" to songs inspired by the pandemic, Teotico believes that these themes are universal and enduring.

Teotico said he hopes the musical's underlying message — finding resilience in adversity — will inspire today’s youth. 

“Hopefully, upon seeing this production, the message that will resonate with the audience is this: that faced with trials, difficulties, and adversities, we should always remember to look for and see the silver lining.”

Tickets are available on Ticket2Me.net.