'Bongga Ka, ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical' channels Manila in the 70s
The iconic disco era of the Philippines is set to come alive onstage once again as Bongga Ka, ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical officially premieres this September.
Co-produced by VIVA Communications, The Philippine STAR, and Newport World Resorts, the musical will be staged at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in September later this year.
It will revisit the music, style, and spirit of Manila during the 1970s, a period that "remains influential in shaping Filipino identity."
It especially takes inspiration from the hit songs of OPM band Hotdog, who popularized the songs Pers Lab, Ikaw ang Miss Universe ng Buhay Ko, Bongga Ka, 'Day, and Annie Batungbakal. These tracks featured catchy melodies, themes of young love, and Taglish lyrics, which made the music of the time sound more hip and modern.
Additionally, the musical will bring back the loud fashion of the 70s—think bell-bottoms, elephant pants, psychedelic prints, Farrah Fawcett hair, and more.
A special teaser performance from Bongga Ka, Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical was staged during the closing night of Bagets: The Musical in March.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Alliance Global Group President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Tan highlighted how the upcoming original musical "celebrates the timeless music of Hotdog and the vibrant spirit of the Manila Sound era, brought to life through Filipino storytelling, culture, creativity, and talent."
As of writing, details on the cast members, ticket prices, and exact show dates have yet to be announced.
Bongga Ka, ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical serves as the second play co-produced by VIVA Communications, The Philippine STAR, and Newport World Resorts following Bagets The Musical, which concluded with a successful 36 shows.
Based on the 1984 film of the same name, it starred Andres Muhlach, KD Estrada, Tomas Rodriguez, Jeff Moses, Milo Cruz, Mico Chua, Ethan David, Migo Valid, Sam Shoaf, and Noel Comia Jr.
