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‘Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah’

Josh Mercado

Twenty years after it iburst onto the Philippine stage and became one of the country’s most cherished cult musicals, “Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal&quot; is making a much anticipated return, with theater fans already buzzing with excitement about the special 20th anniversary production.The landmark musical, known for its outrageous comedy, larger-than-life characters, unforgettable songs, and groundbreaking queer representation, has officially opened auditions for a new staging that promises to celebrate one of Philippine theatre&#x27;s most iconic original productions.Originally created by Carlo Vergara as a graphic novel in 2002, “Zsazsa Zaturnnah” quickly evolved into a pop culture phenomenon. Its musical adaptation premiered at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2006 and soon became a sensation for its fearless mix of camp, fantasy, satire, and emotional depth. The production later earned the distinction of becoming Tanghalang Pilipino’s longest-running musical.<div> </div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1779923957284image0 (7).jpeg" style="width:633px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><div> </div>The show developed a fiercely loyal following across generations of theatergoers, due in large part to its unapologetic decision to place queer stories, identities and humor at the center of the Philippine stage long before such representation became more common in mainstream entertainment.At the heart of the story is Ada, a timid gay beautician whose life changes after swallowing a mysterious stone that transforms him into the superheroine Zsazsa Zaturnnah. What follows is a wildly theatrical adventure filled with alien queens, Amazonista warriors, camp spectacle, romance, and emotional self-discovery.Beyond the laughs and flamboyant chaos, the musical became widely celebrated for its themes of courage, acceptance, identity, and transformation — themes that continue to resonate strongly with audiences even 20 years later.Part of the excitement surrounding the anniversary production also comes from the musical’s rich legacy of iconic performers. Previous runs featured acclaimed stage and screen talents including Eula Valdez, Agot Isidro, K Brosas, Joey Paras, and Nar Cabico. Its 2023 revival introduced the beloved musical to an entirely new generation of theater fans, reigniting interest in the cult classic.Now, as anticipation builds for its milestone anniversary staging, the production is once again searching for a new batch of performers ready to bring the chaotic, emotional, and hilariously over-the-top world of Zsazsa Zaturnnah back to life.The production features a stage adaptation by Chris Martinez, with music, lyrics, and musical direction by Vincent A. De Jesus.Open auditions will take place from June 7 to 9 at SIKAT Performance &amp; Event Venue along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City. Organizers stated that all audition materials must be sent via the official casting form, as there will be no walk-in auditions.Performers auditioning for the musical are encouraged to prepare 16 bars of a soul, gospel, R&amp;B, or blues song, a one-minute comedic monologue, and movement-ready attire. Applicants are likewise encouraged to familiarize themselves with the original cast recording and music from legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, and Mary J. Blige.The production is currently casting for principal roles including Ada, Dodong, Didi, Aling Britney, Queen Femina Suarestellar Baroux, the Amazonista warriors, and ensemble members. Artists of all body types, genders, and gender expressions are strongly encouraged to audition.As &quot;Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal&quot; approaches its 20th anniversary, the production repositions itself not only as a musical revival, but also as a major cultural event for Philippine theatre, inspiring audiences with its unapologetic queerness, emotional honesty, camp spectacle, and long-lasting place in Filipino pop culture.Interested applicants may submit their audition materials through the official casting form: https://bit.ly/ZsazsaCasting. For inquiries and concerns regarding the auditions, aspiring artists may reach out to casting.zsazsa@gmail.com.

“Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal" is making a much anticipated return, with theater fans already buzzing with excitement about the special 20th anniversary production.

“Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal" is making a much anticipated return, with theater fans already buzzing with excitement about the special 20th anniversary production.

Queer musical ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah’ returns, opens auditions

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Queer musical ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah’ returns, opens auditions

Josh Mercado

Published May 28, 2026 11:27 AM PHT

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