Why 9Works Theatrical’s ‘Liwanag sa Dilim’ is relevant today

Upon revisiting the show years later, Guevarra mentions significant changes to its plot and writing—asking for the help of then-intern Elize Gabrido for a younger and feminine perspective. While originally written with a theme distanced from politics, the company’s leaders were pleasantly surprised when former presidential candidate, Leni Robredo, used Liwanag sa Dilim in her rallies, retroactively giving the musical a new interpretation that could instil great fervour.

“The nature of the song is very rallying. We can’t take it away so we built upon it, just in a different way,” says Infante. Jon Abella, one of the cast members, also adds that in theatre, everything is political. “As artists, we have the responsibility to be in touch with what’s happening in the world.”

While 9Works Theatrical wants to keep the story a secret for now—with only the Ticket2Me synopsis to work with—cast members describe the musical to be “alive”, “a journey”, and “alab”, among others. To add to the mystery and anticipation, the star-studded cast’s characters haven’t been revealed yet other than Anthony Rosaldo and Khalil Ramos headlining as Elesi and Vien King who plays Cris. 

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With the rock genre of Rivermaya and 9Works Theatrical’s show posters being themed under a rockstar vibe, many may be led to believe that the Liwanag sa Dilim will feel like the hit Broadway musical American Idiot. To that, Santamaria says that it’s “not what it seems.” The show’s songs, containing 23 in total, have been slightly changed to fit the tone. For instance, Kisapmata will still have those powerful high-note moments but will be slower for possibly more tender scenes—reinforcing Santamaria’s sentiments. “We still wanted it to be familiar. They should still be songs that people can hum or sing along to. We didn’t want to stray away too much from the originals.”

With antagonists teased by the cast to have seats of power, it’s interesting to speculate which direction the story will take. Though not meant to directly criticise the current political climate, it’s impossible to truly be neutral—especially in this industry.

“We never intended it to have any political flavour but the lyrics of the songs innately have that. I think that the show will bring out the ‘pagiging makabayan’ in us. It drives our love of being Filipino and for the Philippines so it’s very timely since we really have to choose the right set of leaders with the upcoming elections,” says Santamaria.

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