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Caught the final performance of Come From Away at Samsung Performing Arts Theatre last night (June 29, 2025) at 6pm. A lot has been said about this production, and I agree with all of the praise that has been given to it. Well-deserved, all of it!  CFA tells the true story of how Gander, a small town in Newfoundland, handled the dilemma of welcoming thousands of passengers from international flights that were diverted there immediately following the 9/11 attacks in the U.S.  I saw the show in Melbourne and fell in love with the story and how the ensemble moved me. When I learned that it's going to be staged locally, I just couldn't miss it! I was totally looking out for who's going to be in the cast, and, boy, was I wowed! The abundance of talent! I have seen half of the ensemble from the local staging of Stephen Sondheim's Company by Upstart Productions in 2019 (Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, Carla Guevara Laforteza, Cathy Azanza-Dy, Topper Fabregas, and Caisa Borromeo), incl...

9 Works Theatrical's production of Robbie Guevara's Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical is an ambitious undertaking that tackles injustice and how one can make a difference. Without revealing the plot, I will focus on some of the performances that stood out for me. Anthony Rosaldo, as the main lead, takes on a monumental task by being present in almost every scene. I can feel his commitment to the role, and it brilliantly shows. He's got a bright future ahead of him. Word of advice, though -- take care of your voice. Nicole Omillo's tongue-in-cheek portrayal of her character brings some element of fun to the musical, but when the need to amp up the drama, she delivers an intense performance, especially when the moment of truth dawns on her in the second act. Arnel Carrion's performance as one of the antagonists is remarkable. His musical number is something to look forward to. More roles for him, please! Another kontrabida who delivers menace with a capital M is Boo Gabunada. ...