Review: "Liwanag sa Dilim" Musical – A Modern Twist on a Classic Tale

 

The Month of March 2025 shines bright with the debut of Liwanag sa Dilim Musical, an original Filipino production that was long delayed due to the pandemic. With years in the making, this musical features the iconic songs of Rico Blanco and is directed by Robbie Guevara, the artistic director of 9 Works Theatrical.

As a millennial, Rico Blanco's music holds a special place in my heart. His songs are deeply familiar, making it easy to connect with the musical’s narrative. While I found myself wanting to sing along, theater etiquette reminded me that silence is golden — a small but necessary sacrifice to fully appreciate the show.

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The Story

Liwanag sa Dilim follows the journey of Elesi, an orphan who embarks on a quest to uncover his past. Along the way, he befriends Cris, and together they champion the oppressed and underprivileged. While the plot draws inspiration from Noli Me Tangere, the clever modern twists kept me engaged and added surprising layers to the story.

Despite initial doubts when I noticed the Spanish colonial-era costumes — giving off "school play" vibes — I was pleasantly surprised. The adaptation modernized Rizal's themes, and Rico Blanco’s songs, including English classics like "You'll Be Safe Here" and "214", were integrated seamlessly without compromising the story’s authenticity.

Production and Design

In terms of production, expectations should be tempered. The show relies heavily on digital backdrops rather than elaborate stage designs. While some may prefer grand sets, I commend the digital editors for creating visual aids that effectively enhanced the storytelling. Scene transitions were rapid, typically lasting only a second or two, maintaining the show's fast-paced momentum. Although this minimalist approach contrasts starkly with immersive productions like Rak of Aegis, the simplicity still managed to deliver the narrative effectively.

The costume design, lighting, and sound played crucial roles in setting the tone. While not extravagant, they supported the story well and maintained a consistent aesthetic throughout the performance.

The Cast

The cast boasts notable talents such as Khalil Ramos, Anthony Rosaldo, Vien King, CJ Navato, Alexa Ilacad, and Nicole Omillo, among others. True to Filipino talent, their vocal performances were nothing short of impressive. The entire ensemble proved that musical prowess runs deep in Philippine culture, making each song emotionally charged and captivating.

A standout moment for me was an unexpected three-second scene featuring a real dog. While brief, this moment left a lasting impression — a small yet memorable touch that tied back beautifully to the storyline later on. It was an ingenious addition that added depth to the narrative.

The Experience

Due to budget constraints, my friends and I booked balcony seats priced at PHP 2,200 each. While more premium options ranged from PHP 3,400 to PHP 3,900, our seats still provided a good view of the stage. We purchased our tickets via ticket2me.net a month in advance.

On show night, we arrived early at the CPR Auditorium at RCBC Plaza in Makati City, a versatile venue that hosts musicals, operas, and business functions. The anticipation built as we posed for photos in front of the striking Liwanag sa Dilim backdrop before claiming our physical tickets from the booth.

TAKEAWAYS: 

Liwanag sa Dilim exceeded my initial expectations. What began with a "school play" impression evolved into a well-crafted production that blended historical themes with modern storytelling. The seamless integration of Rico Blanco’s songs, the clever use of a real dog for emotional impact, and the committed performances of the cast all contributed to a memorable experience.

While the production may lack immersive set designs seen in other Filipino musicals, its powerful storytelling and musical charm more than make up for it. Congratulations to 9 Works Theatrical, the cast, and the entire production team for delivering a heartfelt and impactful show.