This musical speaks not just to the “future lawyers,” but to all of us, on whom the country’s future rests
One of 2024’s hit original Filipino musicals, “Bar Boys: A New Musical,” is currently in the middle of its run, and has, so far, exhausted all available tickets. But upon popular demand, the producers have announced a limited extension, with new shows from Nov. 7 to 10.
The production is a musical adaptation of the 2017 Cinemalaya film of the same name, following the coming of age of four boys—Erik (Benedix Ramos), Chris (Alex Diaz), Torran (Jerom Canlas), and Josh (Omar Uddin)—as they navigate not only the challenges of law school but also of real life beyond.
What makes “Bar Boys” a major draw lies in how it has perfectly set up its case: a book that is equal parts relatable and dramatic (with a sprinkling of lighthearted moments), music that perfectly captures the moods and motifs of each character and story arc, and a well-rounded mix of characters the audience can all connect with.
READ: ‘Bar Boys’ original musical: Remarkable beyond reasonable doubt
Its premise may make it seem like a niche story—one about law students and lawyers!—but sitting through the almost three-hour musical proves its universality. It is a Filipino story through and through. Moreover, it is the story of the Filipino today.
“Bar Boys” speaks to anyone who’s ever had a dream. Especially in the Philippines, where grand dreams often come at a steep price. Anyone who’s had a dream can relate to Erik and his apprehensions about pursuing a law degree. We’ll all be familiar with the dilemma of choosing between what we want and what we think is more practical.
The musical also speaks to those who may have dreamt of changing the system, changing the country, and perhaps have been shamed for such idealism. In “Bar Boys,” we see several of the main characters bear the same hopes. The timely references and jabs to current social issues also hint at this. (Even more timely, as the country is setting up for the mid-term elections.)
“Bar Boys” is for those who feel strongly about justice in the country. (Or, equally, for those who may have stopped believing in any sense of justice in the country already.) As we see the four boys learn the intricacies of the legal system and go face to face against the corruption in the system themselves, we too are taken on the journey to rekindling (then losing, then reviving) that spark of hope.
What’s beautiful about “Bar Boys” is that it also touches on the importance of community and acceptance, showing that working for and achieving one’s dreams isn’t a solitary effort; seeking and accepting help from others is also valuable.
While “Bar Boys” remains largely the same from its early 2024 version, some minor additions serve to give more nuance to the characters. Expect the same stunning set and lighting design, dynamic choreography, and engaging story and music that has gathered thousands of audiences to the theater.
Two tracks from the musical are currently available on Spotify.
“Bar Boys: A New Musical” runs until Nov. 10 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati. Written by Pat Valera, with music by Myke Salomon. Directed by Pat Valera and Mikko Angeles. Choreography by Jomelle Era. Set design by Ohm David. Technical direction by D Cortezano. Lighting design by Meliton Roxas, Jr., Jethro Nibaten. Costume design by Tata Tuviera. Video projection design by Joyce Garcia and Jasper Gonzales. Property design by Julio Garcia. Starring Benedix Ramos, Alex Diaz, Jerom Canlas, Omar Uddin, Sheila Francisco, Naths Everett, Juliene Mendoza, Lorenz Martinez, Chino Veguillas, Topper Fabregas, Shaun Ocrisma, Nor Domingo, Gimbey Dela Cruz, Katrine Sunga, Carlon Matobato, Edrei Tan, Diego Aranda, Ade Valenzona, Meg Ruiz, Jam Binay, Uzziel Delamide, Jannah Baniasia, Ian Pangilinan, Khalil Tambio, Rapah Manalo, Mikaela Regis