The cult classic comedy based on Carlo Vergara's award-winning graphic novel gets a timely revival with Kim Molina on the titular role
Filipino society may have come so far in accepting the LGBTQ+ community since Zsazsa Zaturnnah first took the country's art and culture scene by storm. In recent years, Pride marches and pocket gatherings have been mounted in many areas of the Philippines. The visibility of people in the gender spectrum has also increased not just in the fashion scene anymore but also in the entertainment, philanthropy, and business sectors. More importantly, queer literature and art have grown so much that today's generation earned the title of being "woke" for addressing LGBTQ+ issues more aggressively than its predecessors. But Zsazsa Zaturnnah's mission remains unfinished, for there is still so much to do for the LGBTQ+ community completely free itself from the shackles of bigotry, prejudice, and injustice. For one, the fate of the SOGIE Bill remains hanging.
But despite the uncertainty of the times, there are still many things to look back and celebrate. "Today's generation must also see the period when being LGBTQ+ was taboo. For them to appreciate the growing acceptance they are receiving now, they must also see the time when it was difficult to be of different sexuality and gender identity," says Missy Maramara, director of Ateneo Blue Repertory's latest production.
Presented by Rizal Library and co-presented by Areté, Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical... 'Yun Lang! is the latest adaptation of the graphic novel by Carlo Vergara, featuring the music and lyrics by Vincent A De Jesus and a stage adaptation by Chris Martinez. It is set for March 17 to April 2 performances.
Read also: Artist Carlo Vergara speaks to Tatler about his legendary character Zsazsa Zaturnnah