RAMA, HARI returns to Samsung Performing Arts Theatre this February

Bango ng tsampaka (the fragrance of the champaca) will once again waft through the Samsung Performing Arts Theater when the rock opera ballet RAMA, HARI goes on stage on Feb. 16-25, presented by the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Responding to persistent public clamor for a repeat after its successful run last September, the cast of dancers and singers reprise their roles, with a few new additions. Richardson Yadao, Ejay Arisola, Arman Ferrer, and Vien King again take on the lead role, with Monica Gana, Katrene San Miguel, Karylle Tatlonghari, Shiela Valderrama- Martinez, and Nica Tupas as Sita. Audie Gemora once again plays King Dasaratha, with Erl Sorilla/ Renzen Arboleda and Jon Abella/ Paw Castillo as Rama’s brother Lakshmana. The evil siblings Ravana and Soorpanakha will be brought to hilarious life by Ricmara Bayoneta, Poppert Bernadas, and Jonel Mojica; and by Sarah Alejandro, Krislynne Buri, Miah Canton, and Raflesia Bravo, respectively. Joining the cast for the first time is Marynor Madamesila, who after essaying various lead roles in 2023, will give life to Kaikeyi, together with Katrine Sunga.

Poppert Bernadas as the voice of Ravana

Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and Monica Gana as Sita

The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth, under the baton of Toma Cayabyab, will once again provide live accompaniment.

The rock opera ballet RAMA, HARI defines Philippine musical theater as a collaboration of artists from different disciplines, five of whom went on to become National Artists: Alice Reyes (concept, direction and choreography), Ryan Cayabyab (music), Salvador Bernal (set and costume design), Bienvenido Lumbera (libretto) and Rolando Tinio (English translation).

Poetry in Filipino and English; music that spans pop, classical, kundiman and Asian music; scene-stealing sets that transport the audience from palace to forest, town plaza to the netherworld; choreography that includes sublime pas de deux, action-packed fight scenes, comical skits and grand ensemble dancing by the country’s best dancers… RAMA, HARI is surely a not-to-be-missed production.

Get your tickets now at TicketWorld.com.ph or by contacting Alice Reyes Dance Philippines via email at ardancephilippinesinc@gmail.com or via mobile number (0967) 153-6173.

Subscribe to ARDP’s 2023 Dance Season and celebrate the best of Filipino artistry and talent! For season subscriptions and ticket reservations, email ardancephilippinesinc@gmail.com or text at 09671536173. For more information, check @ARDancePh on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

About ARDP

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) is the newest and most exciting addition to the Filipino dance scene. Its goal is to inspire and transform lives through dance. Born out of the need to give displaced artists a home during the pandemic. Founded by National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, the company features an astounding breadth of Filipino Works by National Artists and the top Filipino choreographers. It showcases the best in Filipino dancers and talents for the local and world stages