“ PINOCCHIO ” CHILDREN’S MUSICAL OPENS ON AUGUST 16

Pinocchio Opens on August 16

In celebration of its 22 years of producing well-loved musicals for children of all ages, Repertory Philippines Theater for Young Audiences proudly announces the staging of PINOCCHIO - the story of that familiar wooden puppet whose nose grew when he told a lie.

Originally written by Carlo Collodi as a serial in 1881, Le avventure di Pinocchio (The Adventures of Pinocchio), it has been one of the most famous stories in children’s literature and one of the most adapted. Perhaps the most popular adaptation was the one by Walt Disney. This more current adaptation is by Jim Eiler with music by Jim Eiler and Jeanne Bargy for the Prince Street Players, Ltd.

Set in Italy, this is the beloved tale of Pinocchio, a life-sized puppet created by the caring puppet maker, Geppetto. Knowing of his longing for a son, the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life as a reward for Geppetto's remarkably generous spirit. The Blue Fairy promises Pinocchio that if he always obeys his father, someday he would become a real boy. But the best laid plans can sometimes go awry and Pinocchio's boyish longings lead him away from his father and on an adventure unlike any other. Hurtled from the Land of The Toys to the belly of a giant, Italian-speaking whale, Pinocchio learns that no love is greater than that of a parent for a child.

Ms. Joy Virata, artistic director of Repertory Philippines Theater for Young Audiences will direct PINOCCHIO. This marks the third time that Repertory Philippines is staging the musical, the first two being in 1996 and 2004.

This new and fresh production of PINOCCHIO is going to be a real treat for the entire family with masks, music and merriment. It will be alive and bursting with energy. The children in the audience will be spellbound with its visually stunning and colorful set design and costumes, the lively choreography, and the witty songs and dialogue of Colodi’s comic characters.

For this production, the role of PINOCCHIO will be alternately performed by Albert Silos, Noel Comia, Daniel Drilon, Guido Gatmaytan, Sofie Wong and Andee Achacoso. Pinocchio’s character is the epitome of naïve innocence and is led into trouble time and time again because of it. He is a curious, impressionable, and a sincere young boy.

Miguel Faustmann, Oliver Usison and Nic Campos shall alternately play the role of GEPPETTO, a toy maker who is noticeably warm-hearted and caring. He is constantly yearning for a son and wants nothing but the best for Pinocchio.

Arnel Carrion, James Stacey and Nic Campos will alternately play the role of ANTONIO, the carpenter friend of Geppetto and the story's narrator. He will interact with the audience throughout the show with his inviting, engaging, energetic charm.

Natalie Everett, Ring Antonio and Gold Soon will alternately essay the role of ANGELINA, Geppetto’s housekeeper who cares deeply for Geppetto’s well being and possesses a loving rapport with him.

Antonio Lane, George Schulze, and Jay Pangilinan shall alternately tackle the role of CANDLEWICK, the young and rambunctious rule-breaker. With his bratty and mischievous attitude, he leads Pinocchio into trouble.

Steven Conde, Thea Gloria, Cara Barredo and Vien Alen King will play GINO, Candlewick’s equally naughty sidekick who will also help Pinocchio disobey his father.

Liesl Batucan, Christine Flores and Cara Barredo will alternately play the role of the BLUE FAIRY, an omniscient presence and god-motherly figure. She looks out for and guides Pinocchio. She is kind, gentle, and generous to those who are pure of heart.

Jef Flores, George Schulze and Onyl Torres will alternately play the role of SIGNORE VOLPONE, the ringleader of a sinister plot to exploit naive children. He operates as the "brains" of the operation and keeps Signore Gatto in his place. Portrayed as a fox, he is a dishonest thief with great cunning and craftiness.

Chino Veguillas, Steven Hotchkiss and Kendrick Ibasco will alternately bring to life the role of SIGNORE GATTO, the less intelligent sidekick of Signore Volpone. Portrayed as a cat, he is a dishonest thief and blindly follows his boss.

Onyl Torres, Raul Montesa and Bituin Escalante will alternately play the role of the COACHMAN.

PINOCCHIO is set to open on August 16, 2014 at the Onstage Theater, 2/F, Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas cor. Legazpi St., Makati City. The show runs until December 14, 2014.

A really brilliant musical for kids, PINOCCHIO promises to be a completely unique theatre experience --- a modern remix of the original story told with vim, verve, vibrancy with the overall message of the importance of good behavior !!!

For details of show, please call tel. nos. 843-3570 and 451-1474 or email shows@repertoryphilippines.com or log on to www.repertoryphilippines.com.

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Tickets are also available through Ticketworld at 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph

PINOCCHIO is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 USA. Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684

See you at the theater !!!!

Buy your tickets online!