Acclaimed stage play “Choosing,” written by actress-playwright Liza Diño and starring her alongside her real-life partner, singer-songwriter Ice Seguerra, is set to return for a limited run this June 6 to 15 at the Doreen Black Box Theater in Areté, Ateneo de Manila University.
Fire and Ice LIVE!, the couple’s production outfit, gave the pressn exclusive peek of the show recently and they performed from the heart, seemingly blurring the line between fact and prose.
Following a successful 2024 debut, the drama, directed by internationally renowned theater artist Dr. Anton Juan.returns with its powerful exploration of love, identity, and the personal cost of self-discovery. The rerun coincides with Pride Month, further amplifying the play’s timely themes and resonance.
Written by Liza Diño-Seguerra, “Choosing” offers audiences another chance to experience a bold and deeply moving story about love, identity and the choices that define us.
“Through Fire and Ice LIVE!, we are committed to showcasing world-class Filipino productions and keeping our local performing arts scene thriving,” shares Diño-Seguerra, co-founder of Fire and Ice LIVE! and playwright of “Choosing.” “This play embodies our vision of making Filipino creativity a global experience, telling a story that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.”
“Choosing” centers on Stella, a cisgender woman, and Mitch, a transgender man, as they confront pivotal chapters in their lives: from childhood awakenings and coming out to the painful, personal reckonings that test even the strongest bonds. Through a series of emotionally charged monologues and conversations, the couple delves into issues such as sexual trauma, consent, and healing, anchored by the play’s core message: we are the choices we make.
The production has been praised for its searing honesty and emotional depth. Critics hailed the original staging as a “brave, thought-provoking piece,” with Diño and Seguerra delivering “bravura performances” that struck a deep chord with audiences. Theatergoers described it as a “raw and intimate confessional” that invited reflection and empathy.
The upcoming rerun promises to build upon the play’s strengths while introducing subtle enhancements for both new and returning audiences. Dr. Juan returns as director, ensuring the production retains its sharp storytelling and emotional impact. Acclaimed composer Vincent A. De Jesus also reprises his role, weaving an evocative musical score into the narrative.
Set in an intimate black box theater, the staging will draw viewers even closer to Stella and Mitch’s inner world.
“This rerun is our way of responding to the overwhelming support for ‘Choosing,’” shares Seguerra, who not only stars as Mitch but also serves as co-producer and has provided additional monologues for this run. “The conversations that started after our first staging continued long after the final curtain call. We knew we had to bring it back—for those who missed it and for those who want to experience it again with fresh eyes.”
Tickets to “Choosing” are available via Ticket2Me. For Inquiries, contact 0917-700-3262 or tickets@fireandice.ph.
