Cover Inside the all-new Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati
Inside the all-new Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati
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Aiming to be a new cultural landmark that will shape Makati’s performing arts scene, the Proscenium Theater matches world-class artistry with world-class design
For so long, this community in Rockwell has been using a name derived from theatre tradition. Now, the crown jewel of Proscenium opens to the public, channelling the timeless elegance of theatre design into a bold new cultural landmark.
The Proscenium Theater, designed by internationally renowned architect Carlos Ott, briefly welcomed audiences recently for some special cultural programmes to test its various features. Now, it’s all set to unveil its full scale with 9 Works Theatrical’s staging of The Bodyguard The Musical.
Above The new theatre prides itself with its 780-seat main hall, proportioned for an ideal audience-to-stage connection
The new theatre prides itself with its 780-seat main hall, proportioned for an ideal audience-to-stage connection
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Adding culture to the neighbourhood’s renowned urban-energy-meets-timeless-elegance atmosphere, the Proscenium Theater not only delivers a theatrical experience with a classic proscenium arch to frame its stage, but also other world-class features designed to accommodate a wide range of performances—from grand orchestral concerts and operas to intimate plays, dance productions and recitals.
The new theatre prides itself with its 780-seat main hall, anchored by a 16x16 metre stage. With this size, it follows an ideal proportion for audience-to-stage connection. It’s incorporated with a fully automated fly line system, which allows for seamless scene changes. Meanwhile, it also has an orchestra pit and a versatile black box theatre, made to deliver the theatre’s diverse programming.
Above A Steinway & Sons concert grand piano suits the hall’s acoustics to create captivating performances with exceptional musical detail
A Steinway & Sons concert grand piano suits the hall’s acoustics to create captivating performances with exceptional musical detail
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Among the theatre’s features, Proscenium Theater boasts its custom-engineered acoustic shell, which allows for an immersive soundscape that gives every instrument and voice the capability to resonate with remarkable warmth, articulate with clarity and to project effectively. The shell’s acoustic design ensures that each note reaches audiences with the same richness and precision, even to the farthest seats. With this standout feature, the theatre adapts to performances of all scales—from intimate recitals to full-scale orchestral productions.
Complementing this is the presence of a Steinway & Sons concert grand piano. Renowned for its depth of tone, responsiveness and expressive range, the chosen piano suits the hall’s acoustics to create captivating performances with exceptional musical detail.
The cast of ‘The Bodyguard The Musical’
The official debut production of Proscenium Theater brings home one of the country’s most celebrated international talents. Grammy-nominated artist and West End star Christine Allado steps into the iconic role of Rachel Marron, which was originally portrayed by Whitney Houston. Allado’s remarkable performances from Hamilton, The Prince of Egypt and In the Heights, and most recently as Esmeralda in the UK premiere concert of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, make her casting into the upcoming 9 Works Theatrical production much anticipated.
Opposite her is West End leading man Matt Blaker, who captivated audiences internationally as Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera, James in Jesus Christ Superstar, and Billy Flynn in Chicago. Donning the titular role makes his debut performance in the Philippines a milestone of its own for his career.
Above Inside the halls of Th Proscenium Theater
Inside the halls of Th Proscenium Theater
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They will be joined by an ensemble of powerhouse Filipino performers: Sheena Palad as Nicki Marron, CJ Navato as Ray Court and understudy for Frank Farmer, Tim Yap as Sy Spector, John Joven-Uy as Bill Devaney, Vien King as Agent Laney, Jasper Jimenez as Tony Scibelli and Paji Arceo as Douglas, with Elian Santos and Giani Sarita alternating as Fletcher.
Completing the stellar lineup are Jasmine Fitzgerald, who is covering for both Rachel and Nicki Marron, along with celebrated talents such as Radha, Fay Castro, Winchester Lopez, Carmelle Ros, Richardson Yadao, Iya Villanueva, Vyen Villanueva, Alex Aure, Julio Laforteza, Natalie Duque, PJ Rebullida, Lorenz Martinez and Lani Ligot.
The Bodyguard The Musical opens on September 26 at the Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Center Makati.
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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.
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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.
