Buruguduystunstugudunstuy: Ang Parokya ni Edgar Musical tells the story of four women who find themselves at a crossroads of their unique challenges. Their paths unexpectedly intertwine, leading them on an extraordinary adventure of self-discovery, resilience, and the forging of unbreakable bonds.
Interestingly, the musical’s all-female lead cast – Tex Ordoñez-De Leon, Natasha Cabrera, Marynor Madamesila, and Felicity Kyle Napuli – mirror the themes they will portray on stage. They shared an inside look at the challenges and triumphs that shaped them on and off stage.
Tex Ordoñez-De Leon makes a theater comeback
Seasoned actress Ordoñez-De Leon paused her theater career to raise her child, prioritizing family over audition offers. However, her passion for the stage never waned. Now, with her husband’s full support and a teenager, she triumphantly returns to the theater.
“I took a break, but I’m back now because this is where my heart is. I’m happy here.”
While family remains her priority, theater will always be her home, where she expresses herself creatively.
Natasha Cabrera overcomes loss
Cabrera’s journey to the spotlight wasn’t easy. Despite graduating with a degree in BA Theater Arts, she faced personal challenges, shouldering family responsibilities as the eldest child.
Driven by practicality, she entered the corporate world for a year but struggled to contain her artistic spirit. “I worked in corporate for a year, but my heart couldn’t take it. I wasn’t happy not being able to sing,” she shared.
The struggle was real. “There were many instances when I wanted to quit because life is hard. We know that in this [theater] path, projects won’t always come. You won’t always get productions,” she said.
Her story reflects perseverance, responsibility, and sacrifice. Despite the challenges, she followed her heart and now pursues her passion for singing.
The unwavering spirit of Marynor Madamesila
Madamesila, a graduate of the University of the Philippines – Diliman’s Theater Arts program, is familiar with the challenges of the industry. She recalls moments during her studies when she considered quitting.
Despite the instability of a theater career, her love for the craft kept her going. “In the life of a theater artist, you always try. I feel blessed because when I try, I get a chance to perform,” she shared.
Madamesila believes in the triumph of every attempt. Her passion for theater drives her to keep trying, viewing each audition as a step forward toward her goals.
Felicity Kyle Napuli’s juggling act
At just 17, Napuli shines as a promising young theater talent, starring in musicals like Lion King and Matilda. Juggling her studies and theater commitments, she shares, “If rehearsals are from 4 to 6 [in the afternoon], I study from 9 to 12 [in the morning].”
Admitting that her schedule is demanding, Napuli’s passion and energy drive her forward, pushing through for her growth and future.
As a young artist balancing education and artistic pursuits, Napuli faces unique struggles. However, she has mastered the art of balancing studies and work, determined to achieve her big dreams.
Real-life parallels in the Parokya world
Although their journeys began separately and at different times, Napuli, Madamesila, Ordoñez-De Leon, and Cabrera found their paths intersecting when they all landed roles in a musical.
Now, they bring their diverse experiences and talent to breathe life into characters in the world of Parokya, portraying Aiza, Jen, Norma, and Girlie.
Follow their journey in Buruguduystunstugudunstuy: Ang Parokya ni Edgar Musical, premiering on April 26 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Matinee shows are at 3:00 p.m. on April 27 and 28, May 4, 5, 11, and 12, and June 8. Evening performances are at 8:00 p.m. on April 26 and 27, May 3, 4, 10, 11, and 17.
Tickets are available at TicketWorld, SM Tickets outlets, HelixPay, and Newport World Resorts Box Office, ranging from P1,105 to P5,525. For inquiries on bulk and show buyers, contact the Newport World Resorts National Sales Team via JhayR dela Cruz at 0917 818 9847, Raf Sangco at 0917 807 9387, James Rodriguez at 0917 829 2173, and Paulo San Jose at 0917 810 5031.
