By Paola Navarette
The way Cyrano de Bergerac’s biography was pieced together has earned his story a stronghold in our collective imagination. Whether we’re compelled by his gallant selflessness, his flair of words, or simply his familiar tale of unrequited love, we just can’t seem to shake Cyrano.
One story, currently playing on stage, retells his tale but with an all-original score and script written by Pat Valera and William Manzano.
Set in 1940s Manila, the musical presents the poignant and moving story of a long-nosed poet, Cyrano, who writes letters for the inarticulate Christian to Roxane, the woman they both adore.
The musical play, produced by Black Box Productions, premiered on Nov. 9 at the Hyundai Hall, Arete Building in Ateneo de Manila University.
The story whisks us back to Cyrano meeting his childhood friend Roxane, who confessed her love not for him but for the new cadet Christian. Knowing how some officers are less kind to new members, Roxane begs Cyrano to protect Christian.
Roxane, however, has become the object of affection of Commandant Maximo Kalaw, who intends to marry her before the outbreak of war.
Cyrano was then caught in a fight with Maximo, and Christian joins the gang of officers who repeatedly insults Cyrano’s nose. Despite Cyrano’s tendency to duel those that spite his face, he keeps his promise to Roxane. He also secretly agrees to help Christian woo her by writing the words for Christian to capture her heart.
With kundiman and contemporary pop music, the play will leave the audience breathless as it follows the lives of the love triangle and the merry troupe of young cadets in finding themselves fighting not only for love but also for their lives.
The cadets navigate the relative innocence of college life: going to numerous hangouts, making fun of their ROTC commandants, and experiencing the crushing blows of first love. And through the perils of war, the young Filipinos try to find every reason to carry on amid conflict and duty.
Nicco Manalo and Boo Gabunada have perfected their portrayal of the clever poet-cadet Cyrano. They imbue their characters with a depth that makes it hard to take your eyes off them each time they are onstage.
Edward Beñosa and Myke Salomon, who play the handsome yet bumbling Christian, are equal parts refreshing, while both Cris Go and Gab Pangilinan, who portray the charismatic Roxane, steal the limelight in every scene they’re in.
Joining the lead cast are Phi Palmos and Ronah Rostata who alternate as Rosana, the regal leader of the misfit cadets. Jon Abella and Iggi Siasoco join the troupe as Tato, the close friend of Cyrano. Gel Basa and Francelle Fetalvero portray Gabriel, and MC dela Cruz as Maximo.
Mula sa Buwan’s songs will surely tug at the heartstrings of many as the hymns cut into the history and paint a spirit of love and loss.
The songs featured in the musical include Rosana’s “Manifesto,” a piece of resistance and identity; Cyrano’s “Ikaw,” a love song of secret admirers; Christian’s “Matatapos Din,” a ballad of hope; and Roxane’s “Ang Sabi Nila,” a heart-wrenching hymn of pain and tragedy.
No doubt, Mula sa Buwan is a celebration of Filipino talent and innovation across various art forms. The story explores how love overcomes even at the outbreak of war, and examines the value of nationalism within the tragic setting of wartime Philippines.
The musical runs until Nov. 25 at the Hyundai Hall, Arete in Ateneo de Manila University.