The stage play “Choosing (Not A Straight Play),” co-created by the celebrated LGBTQIA+ couple Ice Seguerra and Liza Diño and directed by the distinguished Dr. Anton Juan, has garnered widespread acclaim from prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
Esteemed writer, director and actress Bibeth Orteza, award-winning actor-director Ricky Davao, world renowned filmmaker Brillante Mendoza, and highly respected stage thespian Sheila Francisco have all praised the production for its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances.
Ricky Davao called it an “eye-opener.” “Although I understood it, I became aware of many things. While becoming aware and learning a lot, I’m enjoying their performance. The story is beautiful. It’s wonderful to act with Ice and Liza. You must watch this.”
Brillante Mendoza expressed his admiration for its courageous message and actors. “Brave is how I would describe this play and its actors. The LGBTQ community is a small one, and I hope straight people would also come to see this play – not just with the intent to support a friend ,like I did, but with the open-mindedness to learn, a willingness to understand and respect that people have different truths and there are various issues, struggles, and complications that people face every day in their personal lives and in their relationships.”
Sheila Francisco highlighted the unique nature of the play, saying, “‘Choosing’ is no ordinary love story. Amidst challenges, complications, and beyond boundaries, Mitch and Stella’s love triumphs. As an actor, I am well aware that this is a very difficult piece to perform. One has to have an extraordinarily generous heart to pull this off. And that is exactly what Ice and Liza possess – hearts that are fearless and unpretentious. They are willing to dig deep and put themselves out there, sharing their vulnerabilities with such profound courage and sincere, raw honesty. I am in awe of these two. Please, please make time to watch ‘Choosing.’ It may well be the most significant piece of theater you’ll experience this year. Love always wins.”
Bibeth Orteza also lauded the production, emphasizing the remarkable scriptwriting by Liza Diño Seguerra. She remarked, “Pinagkakapuri ko ang ‘Choosing.’ But isa pang kailangan pansinin dito bukod sa acting at direction, yung panulat ni Liza Dino Seguerra. Isipin nyo, tatlong araw nyang sinulat ang script. Kailangan ng play na ito ang suporta nyo. Panuorin nyo at hindi kayo magsisi. Promise.”
“Choosing (Not a Straight Play)” is set to stage on July 6 at 3 and 8 p.m. and July 7 at 2, 4:30, and 8 p.m. Tickets are available at Ticket2Me.