After making a name for himself in the international stage, where he played Thuy in the European staging of “Miss Saigon” for three years, singer-actor Gerald Santos is making a crack in local theater with the original Filipino musical, “Haphow.”
For the first time, Gerald will play a caterpillar in a costume in the musical. “I’m a bit anxious,” the singer-actor admitted. “There will be a lot of firsts that I’m doing in ‘Haphow.’ I’m more of excited.
“Then I’ll be singing original songs. I will immerse myself into the character, internalize the lyrics and relate to the right message. My instinct as an actor, how I will render and sing the songs.”
“Haphow” is a compelling musical journey in the heart of the mystical Kalinaw Forest, ancient trees Tandang Balete, Apong Narra and ingkong Acacia stand as guardians of nature’s wisdom.
They lament the loss and destruction caused by humans, yet they remain hopeful that change is possible. They decide to take action, reminding all creatures and humans of the beauty and importance of nature.
As the main character unfolds, Haphow is a humble caterpillar who undergoes a magical transformation into a stunning butterfly. Haphow embodies the core values of humility, acceptance, patience, honesty, open-mindedness and willingness (HAPHOW).
Haphow leads a group of diverse insects, including the fireflies Alitap and Alitaptap, the diligent Alibee, the mischievous Hopper and others. Each character experiences personal growth, learning the importance of community, unity and environmental stewardship.
The narrative unfolds through vibrant musical numbers, dramatic scenes and heartfelt dialogues. The characters face challenges and adversities, especially from the destructive actions of humans.
With a mix of traditional, contemporary to modern music, stunning choreography, and a powerful storyline, “Haphow” is not just a local production but a universal tale of transformation and environmental consciousness.
The musical aims to inspire audiences worldwide, encouraging them to embrace the values of Haphow and take meaningful actions to protect the environment.
MJ Aspacio, COO (chief operating officer) of CityDanse Academy (CDA), who wrote the music and created the 18 songs in “Haphow,” insisted the musical is very timely with what is happening to our generation these days.
“We came up with ‘Haphow’ as an original Filipino musical because we want to bring back our core values,” said MJ. “Haphow’ stands for humility, acceptance, patience, honesty, open-mindedness and willingness to change.”
Gerald was handpicked by CityDanse Academy’s CEO (chief executive officer), Dr. Salve Arbo.
MJ completed the 18 songs for “Haphow” after a year. “I specifically wrote the songs for a similar voice like Gerald,” said MJ. “When I told our CEO that I really need an icon, like this kind of caliber, this kind of voice, that should resonate with the character. That should be the real ‘Haphow’.”
MJ will also work at the helm of “Haphow.” Gerald’s manager, Rommel Ramilo, will be the co-director of “Haphow.”
Dr. Salve admitted she really selected Gerald, because his voice is the “perfect match” to the voice of ”Haphow.” The songs that Gerald will sing are really solid for “Haphow.”
“I believe in Gerald’s talent because given that he already has many international theater credits and experiences in ‘Miss Saigon’,” said Dr. Salve. “He did more than 600 shows when he was in the UK.
“His voice is also very powerful. He is very emotional when he performs. Just like Haphow, who is also very emotional. Gerald is perfect as Haphow.”
It was not hard to convince Gerald to accept a musical like “Haphow” even after his successful venture in the international stage with “Miss Saigon,” that took him to the UK, Ireland, Switzerland, Germany and Denmark.
“When they sent me the synopsis of ‘Haphow,’ it resonated with me,” admitted Gerald. “Humility, acceptance. I can relate with the message of Haphow. The character, the story, the advocacy and message of the musical resonate with me.
“I’ve been trying to be a role model among young people. This musical is for children and for all ages, as well. The original songs in ‘Haphow’ are very commercial. Beautiful, catchy. Why not? I believe in the project. It’s local and original. The message is beautiful.
“Young people nowadays are smart. The musical will inspire them more. I hope this character that I will play in ‘Haphow’ will inspire those who will watch. No matter what happened to you, it should not define you. You should come out stronger as a person.”
Given what happened to Gerald last year — when he bravely came forward about the sexual harassment he experienced 19 years ago at the hands of a noted musical director — it has shaped him into the person he is today.
“If not for those experiences, I will not be this strong as a person,” Gerald said. “I’ve been really patient for 19 years. There are things that will happen to you that you didn’t plan to happen.
“Even in my career. Before the ‘Miss Saigon’ break came, I’ve waited patiently for six years. I was also in the local musical theater. But no one perhaps took notice. I’ve accepted that. I’ve been open-minded to reinvent myself.”
