Cover A scene from ‘On Your Feet!’ where every step, spin and synchronised movement served a purpose (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
A scene from ‘On Your Feet!’ where every step, spin and synchronised movement served a purpose (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
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The hit Broadway musical ‘On Your Feet!’ delivers an electrifying and emotional tribute to the Estefans in Manila
Presented by Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical, the internationally acclaimed production of On Your Feet! has officially opened at the Proscenium Theater at Rockwell Center, Makati. Running until July 26, the Manila staging of this hit Broadway musical offers far more than a mere celebration of iconic pop songs. It delivers a deeply moving story about family, perseverance, ambition and the courage required to keep moving forward despite life’s greatest setbacks.
At the heart of On Your Feet! is a stellar cast that brings Emilio and Gloria Estefan’s enduring partnership to life with undeniable warmth and chemistry. Alternating as the leading lady, Kayla Rivera proved she can navigate Gloria Estefan’s complex narrative arc with a highly effective portrayal of youthfulness at the beginning of the story, smoothly transitioning into the gradual blossoming of a global superstar as the plot progresses. Rivera alternates with Molly Langley in breathing new life into Gloria Estefan’s early years for the stage in this production.
Read more: The Southeast Asian premiere of ‘On Your Feet!’ hits Manila
Above From the opening number to the final curtain call, ‘On Your Feet!’ kept audiences on their feet with nonstop dancing, vibrant choreography and dynamic storytelling (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
From the opening number to the final curtain call, ‘On Your Feet!’ kept audiences on their feet with nonstop dancing, vibrant choreography and dynamic storytelling (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
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Playing opposite her is Cuban-American actor Jason Canela as Emilio Estefan. Canela not only embodied the emotional arc of Emilio Estefan but also added a profound layer of authenticity to the translation of the real person onto the stage, firmly grounded in his own Latin roots.
The supporting cast further elevates the production’s emotional resonance. Much depth is given by sublime performances from Ayen Laurel as Gloria Fajardo, Pinky Marquez as Consuelo Garcia and Vien King as Young Jose. Together with a dynamic ensemble, they bring humour, tenderness and vibrant energy to every single scene.
Above From timeless classics to fan favourites that still live on our playlists, hearing Gloria Estefan’s biggest hits performed live made every moment of ‘On Your Feet!’ feel nostalgic and exhilarating (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
From timeless classics to fan favourites that still live on our playlists, hearing Gloria Estefan’s biggest hits performed live made every moment of ‘On Your Feet!’ feel nostalgic and exhilarating (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
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Under the direction of Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome and choreography by Nunoy van den Burgh, On Your Feet! seamlessly blends Broadway-scale spectacle with intimate storytelling. It achieves a triumphant balance of theatricality, storytelling and an immersive concert experience.
The production beautifully traces Gloria’s journey from childhood to superstardom, transforming the stage into a dazzling celebration of Latin music and culture filled with vibrant choreography and colourful visuals. In general, it was a phenomenal entertainment experience. Coming in knowing only a few hits—like Conga, Rhythm Is Gonna Get You or 1-2-3—you inevitably leave the theatre dancing and singing to the timeless music.
Above Together, Gloria (Kayla Rivera) and Emilio Estefan (Jason Canela) navigated the highs and lows of an extraordinary career (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
Together, Gloria (Kayla Rivera) and Emilio Estefan (Jason Canela) navigated the highs and lows of an extraordinary career (Photo: 9 Works Theatrical)
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By the finale, the infectious energy of On Your Feet! is simply impossible to resist; audiences clap, sing and dance along to Conga before an electrifying curtain call medley leaves everyone moving long after the final bow.
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
