Steven Silva is Jean-Michel in 9 Works’ La Cage Aux Folles

Life’s not worth a damn, ‘Til you can say, “Hey world, I am what I am.”

La Cage Aux Folles has reopened in Manila last February 28 and will be back after a week off, this Saturday. Literally translated as “The Cage of Mad Women”, the show promises a feel good musical that speaks to everybody not to mention fabulous costumes and production numbers. Whether you are gay, straight or whatever, anybody can relate to a story of self-acceptance and the true meaning of family. Plus, you can never go wrong with glitter.

First staged in 1983, the show revolves around Georges (Michael de Mesa, Hairspray) the manager of Saint-Tropez nightclub, Albin a.k.a. Zaza (Audie Gamora, The Producers) the star attraction and Jean-Michel (Steven Silva, Grease), Georges’ son from a confused youthful liaison many years back. The unconventional family lives happily until Jean-Michel invites his fiancée, Ann (played alternately by Missy Macuja-Elizalde and Joni Galeste) to their home. And as ridiculous as it sounds, he requests his father to put on a facade acceptable to Ann’s ultra-conservative family. A front that hides the glitz and glamour embedded in the very core of their home.

I am watching La Cage on March 28, 8pm (because I have a One Direction concert to attend this week :-P). I am very much excited to watch this show. It is not a secret that I am a big fan of Steven and watching him sing and dance in last year’s Grease was a delight. However, his role as Johnny Casino was limiting and has not fully showcased his singing voice. Who would have known that he will be following that as a romantic lead. I’ve been listening to the songs and I can’t wait to hear Steven as Jean-Michel. This, considering that he almost quit showbiz. Few years ago, I read somewhere that Steven has given himself an ultimatum (2 or 3 years) to be successful. Good thing, he decided to stay or else, he wouldn’t have found his place in the wonderful world of theatre.

Of course, I am also thrilled to see Michael de Mesa (coming back from a 6-year hiatus from the theater stage) and Audie Gamora in one stage. I am also eager to see how the Les Cagelles turned out. I’ve been teased by a lot La Cage posts in my Instragram and Facebook feeds and I can’t wait to actually see the grand spectacle in person.

Don’t miss what people are calling the best production of 9 Works yet!

Catch the last shows of 9 Works Theatrical’s La Cage Aux Folles directed by Robbie Guevara on March 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29 at the RCBC Plaza, Makati, with Friday and Saturday galas at 8:00pm, selected Saturday matinees at 3:30pm, and Sunday matinees at 4:00pm.

For tickets or inquiries contact 0917-5545560, 586-7105 or email info@9workstheatrical.com.