Karylle, Markki Stroem, and more join 'REP Unplugged'
Theater icons Karylle Tatlonghari and Markki Stroem are set to lead the charge as Repertory Philippines enters its 89th Season with the debut of REP Unplugged.
This series, which removes grand sets and focuses on the raw performances, will feature Tatlonghari and Stroem alongside a powerhouse cast in a format that brings the audience closer to the actors.
According to REP President and CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio, the goal is to create an immersive theatrical experience where the boundaries between performer and audience are softened through on-stage seating, interactive elements, and post-performance discussions.
"Our goal is to create a more intimate and immersive theatrical experience, where the boundaries between performer and audience are softened," said Perez-Rubio. “By inviting some guests to be seated on stage, incorporating interactive elements, and fostering dialogue through post-performance discussions, we aim to cultivate a sense of inclusivity and reaffirm our commitment to explore innovative theatrical forms.”
Under the season theme "By love, transformed," artistic director Jeremy Domingo has curated two plays that bridge a century of storytelling.
The series kicks off on March 21 and 22 with Noël Coward’s Private Lives, a 1930s comedy directed by Jeremy Domingo. The story follows a divorced couple, played by Alfredo Reyes and Missy Maramara, who accidentally find themselves in adjoining hotel suites while on honeymoon with their new spouses. Tatlonghari stars as the new spouse Sibyl, joined by Hans Eckstein as Victor and Sevee Eslabra as the quirky maid Louise.
Then on March 28 and 29, the season continues with the Philippine debut of Sole Survivor, a play by Patricia Manuel Go, directed by Cara Barredo. This modern-day satire follows Filipino-Brit twins Nina and Anton Wilde, played by Giannina Ocampo Van Hoven and Stroem, on a comic yet ruthless journey from Makati to Manhattan centered around an obsession with a single designer shoe. The cast is supported by Naths Everett, Ring Antonio, Chesko Rodriguez, and Becca Coates.
Both Private Lives and Sole Survivor will be staged at 7 p.m. at the REP Eastwood Theater in Eastwood CityWalk 2, Quezon City.
Guests will have access to wine and refreshments during the performances and can participate in a Q&A Talkback following the shows.
Tickets are currently available at Ticketworld and Ticket2Me, with options ranging from a P3,000 Two-Show Bundle to a P1,500 Single Show ticket. REP is also offering discounts for students, with single show tickets priced at P500 and bundles at P1,000, available by presenting a valid ID at the REP Box Office or through their official social media channels.
