Ogie Alcasid returns to musical theater with Cayabyab's 'Caysasay'
by Nestor Torre
Saturday Special, Philippine Daily Inquirer
p. A2-1, Saturday, May 14, 2005
When musical-theater buffs and patrons of spiritual productions first
heard that the Ryan Cayabyab was composing for the music for his newest
religious musical, "Mapaghimalang Birhen ng Caysasay," they
were excited. After such acclaimed masterworks as "Katy!", "Magnificat" and
his Rizal musicals, they knew that they would be in for another special
theater treat.
Recently, their excitement level rose even higher when they learned that popular comedy star, TV host, singer and composer Ogie Alcasid had enthusiastically agreed to topbill the production, in the dramatically demanding acting and singing role of Haybing, one of the most wellknown beneficiaries of the miracles that the Our Lady of Caysasay is famous for.
Death by decapitation
Haybing was a Chinese stonemason in Taal, Batangas, who was executed
by decapitation in the 16th century. Being a devotee of Our Lady, he
prayed to her at the time of his death - and was stunningly brought back
to life sometime later, to the amazement of the people who had witnessed
his decapitation.
In keeping with the heightened psychological urgency of Haybing's daunting experiences, Cayabyab has written four exceptionally dramatic songs that highlight Ogie's signing prowess and emotive range.
This is the second dramatic musical-theater production that Ogie has agreed to be involved in. Some years ago, he both surprised and impressed audiences when he played Dr. Jose Rizal in Nonoy Gallardo's musical, "Sino Ka Ba, Jose Rizal?"
In that production, Alcasid resoundingly proved that he could do much more than comedy, as he did full justice to the challenging and complex role of the national hero, winning raves from audiences and critics alike.
Memorable showcase
Now, in "Birhen ng Caysasay," Ogie had another memorable showcase
for his singing and acting talent, as he essays the compelling role of
Haybing.
Ogie has been offered many musicals before, but he chose to do this one, because the story of Our Lady of Caysasay is close to his heart, since his mother came from Taal, and is infact one of the leading lights of the Blessed Virgin of Caysasay Foundation, which along with the Taal- CHARM Foundation, Taal Heritage Foundation and the Cultural Center of the Philippines is presenting the musical. (Call executive producer Ramon Orlina at 781-5918, or email orlina@pldtdsl.net for details).
Other guest stars and acclaimed musical theater artists have have joined the cast of Cayabyab's latest musical, because they too believe in the importance of musical and spiritual upliftment in these challenging times.
"Mapaghimalang Birhen ng Caysasay" will be presented at the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Little Theater on july 7,8,9 and 10, after which it will be taken on a performance tour of Luzon provinces, to further spread the word about Our Lady's love for her children, and her readiness to help them at their most daunting moments of need.
