9 Works Theatrical to stage 'Once on This Island'

MANILA — Local theater company 9 Works Theatrical is staging the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical "Once on This Island." This announcement comes on the heels of their successful production of "Rent."

The musical, featuring book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty, will be under the direction of Robbie Guevara.

"We originally planned this for our 2025-2026 lineup, but we advanced it because we were looking for a material that would fill in just one reservation for the theater. In terms of familiarity, this is the most well-known among the classic Broadway shows," Guevara said.

He admitted that he had initial reservations due to the abundance of theater shows this year.

“I was afraid we were going to exhaust the market, but good thing I’m not good at marketing because I was wrong," he said.

Star Magic actress Angela Ken will take on the lead role of Ti Moune, alternating with Thea Astley.

“Sobrang excited po kasi nasa second month na kami ng pag-prepare sa 'Once on This Island.' Yung excitement ko na I’ll be playing as one of the leads, may part dun na nakaka-pressure, but at the same time umaangat 'yung saya na maging parte po ng magandang musical na ‘to," Ken said.

In addition to Ken, two other Star Magic artists will be featured in the production. Shania Gomez will play Andrea, and Jordan Andrews will take on the role of one of the storytellers.

"Once on This Island" tells a story about a girl who fights love and does as much as she can to reach the love she’s been longing for. It also talks about her struggles on the island.

"Once on This Island" will run from September 6 to 29 at the RCBC Plaza in Makati City.