The musical is really a love story of Cory and Ninoy. Their love for each other and their love for the country.”

This is how Isay Alvarez, lead actress in “Cory, The Musical,” would describe the first stage offering to chronicle the life of former President Corazon Aquino. Apart from being known as the great woman who rallied the Filipino people to seek an end to 20 years of Marcos dictatorship, Cory Aquino has always been depicted as a doting mother, and a loving wife to Ninoy Aquino. She kept to the background, chose a quiet domestic life, yet never failed to provide a sturdy wall of support for the endeavors of the former senator.

In a poem written by Ninoy himself, and later put to music by Jose Mari Chan, he describes how he fell in love with Cory three times. First, as his young vibrant wife; second, as the mother of his children; and third, as the source of comfort and well-spring of hope during his incarceration. The poem was the 19th anniversary gift of Ninoy to Mrs. Aquino.

“Cory, The Musical” provides a glance at the romantic beginnings of the couple who were later recognized as the prime icons of freedom and democracy. Featuring 19 original compositions by producer Mrs. Lourdes “Bing” Pimentel, the musical fervently presents how their love for each other blossomed and became a source of strength amid the many challenges that their family faced.

Isay Alvarez, former “Miss Saigon” actress, essaying the role of Cory, with classical singer Sherwin Sozon as Ninoy, provided the beautiful vocal performances that gave life to the enrapturing romance between the couple.    

Written and directed by Nestor Torre, with musical director Leo Quinitio, and engrossing compositions by Mrs. Pimentel, the inspiring story of Tita Cory which premiered in 2008 will return to the stage Aug. 30 at the AFP Theater.    

Cory and Ninoy were the ultimate example of how genuine love could transcend hardships and obstacles. Their love not only encompassed family but the Filipino people as well. After the assassination of Senator Aquino, Cory Aquino was thrust into the limelight, stepping into Ninoy’s shoes, eventually ousting strongman Ferdinand Marcos.

Her devotion to the Filipinos not only mirrors her commitment to the ideals of his husband, but her genuine love of country.   

Isay Alvarez aptly points out, “The highlights of the musical are those that show the sacrifices of the Aquino family for the country. And this should inspire every Filipino to love our country more.”   

“Cory, The Musical” performances August 30, AFP theater, are priced at P500 and P300 for the 3 p.m. matinee with additional discount for students upon presentation of student ID, and regular showing at 8 p.m. at P700 and P500. Tickets are available at Ticket World.

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Ruby Rose's birthday celebrated

Though she died more than two years ago, her birthday which falls on August 14, was celebrated solemnly by her kin, especially her sister Rochelle Barrameda and her parents.

The late Ruby Rose Barrameda and Rochelle are beauty title holders. And Rochelle has some stints in showbiz. Rochelle made an appeal for the speedy resolution of justice for her sister, and in a press statement which she read, we are quoting here some excerpts:

“It’s been two years and five months since Ruby Rose died. A death by brutal murder…

“Our family knows Ruby Rose so well most especially me as the closest to her. She was a very kind person to all of us. She was the most loved because she was the youngest among the siblings. We thought she was the luckiest member of the family. She got the attention that she needed.”

The death of Ruby Rose is still being investigated and no formal charges have been filed yet against any suspect or suspects.

Rochelle said that four agencies of the government are still investigating the case. She however expressed gratitude for the assistance being given them by DILG Sec. Ronaldo Puno and NCRPO Chief Gen. Roberto Rosales.

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Thespians on air  honored at DZRH Radio  Drama Awards

Luz Fernandez and Augusto Victa led the roster of radio personalities honored for their contributions to the development of radio drama in simple ceremonies held recently at the Star Theater as part of the 70th anniversary celebrations of DZRH. Cecille Guidote-Alvarez, executive director of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts bestowed the awards for Most Outstanding Drama Talents to Fernandez and Victa, whose careers in the realm of soap operas for both radio and television have already spanned decades.

No less than the “Queen of Philippine Movies” herself, Ms. Susan Roces, was around to present trophies to the top honorees. Cited for their prowess in voice-acting were Betty Roxas (“Dolorosa”), Tony Angeles and Nick de Guzman (both for “May Pangako ang Bukas”), Marichu Villegas (“Sagrado”), Rosanna Villegas (“Dolorosa”), Eddie Legaspi (“Sagrado”), and Phil Cruz (“Dolorosa”). Bobby Cruz and Jun Legaspi shared directorial honors for “Hukumang Pantahanan,” along with Eloisa Cruz Canlas for “Dolorosa.”

Amancio Salonga was named Best Musical Director for “Mr. Romantiko,” with Mike Perez taking home the award for Best Narrator (“Gabi ng Lagim”), and Fundador Soriano being honored as Best Scriptwriter for “Ukay-Ukay ni Manang Kikay.” Taking home the award for Best Drama was “Sagrado.”

Since the 1950s, DZRH has been a veritable goldmine of soap operas from 11 a.m till mid-afternoon, and again in the evenings. Radio was so powerful then that even filmdom’s biggest stars had to have their own soap operas. Through the years, a number of DZRH radio dramas have been given cross-over versions on television and the movies, owing to the popularity of “Gulong ng Palad,” first aired by DZRH in 1949.

Radio dramas have also become great vehicles for promoting specific causes. The Communication Foundation for Asia’s “Isang Dipang Langit” ran for 15 years on DZRH, teaching people to aspire for a better life, and was recognized many times over at the Catholic Mass Media Awards. The Department of Health chose this same route to discuss various issues on health and occupational safety via “Sa Palad ng Buhay.”

“Kapirasong Langit sa Lupa” dwelt on agrarian reform. “Pananagutan sa Bayan”  underscored accountability of public officials. “Mga Daing sa Paraiso” touched on the social forestry program. And “Panginorin,” an inspirational drama that topped the national ratings several times during its run, highlighted positive moral and social values.

To this day, with outstanding serials still followed avidly by its loyal listeners, DZRH radio dramas continue to be commercially viable vehicles for some of the best writers, directors, and voice talents in the country. They are now even available as podcasts for techies.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, August 18, go to Chief Justice Emilio Gancayco, Consul Fortune Ledesma, Bro. Mike Velarde, Phillip Salvador, Manuel Collantes, Noel Trinidad, Tanya Montenegro, Christine Gatchalian, Cheloy Ignacio, Helen A. dela Virgen, Trinidad Gomez, Jaime Piconell, Pocholo Capule, Claire Miranda, Rudy Fontanilla, Vincent del Rosario, Atty. Jose Villanueva, Milagros A. Binalla, Bob Jess B. Castillo Jr. of UST High School, entertainment columnist Alex Datu, and Dr. Manny Calayan…