A journey through love, friendship, and history
As a Filipino, there’s something inherently powerful about revisiting our history through the lens of art. Silver Lining, a musical that combines both personal and historical accounts, has managed to do just that. This November, it returns as Silver Lining Redux and it promises to capture the essence of the past while resonating with today’s audience.
The musical, which is set against the backdrop of martial law in the 1970s, moves between multiple timeframes and invites viewers to consider the struggles, decisions, and events that shape our shared history. However, the creators quickly explain that this is not a political show. Rather, it’s a celebration of genuine friendship and love that uses history as a starting point to examine intensely intimate issues.
Something is refreshing about a production that chooses to focus on human relationships rather than politics, especially when set during such a politically charged time in history. The show’s producer Jay Valencia Glorioso explains it well: “It’s like the series Pulang Araw. While set during World War II, the focus is on the people, not the war.”
It’s this human element that keeps Silver Lining from becoming a historical lecture and instead allows it to resonate on a more intimate level.
For Maribel Legarda, the director, it’s all about choices—whether made in politically turbulent times or not. “Every choice we make has an effect,” she says, emphasizing personal responsibility. Whether you’re in a position of power or simply an ordinary person, we all make decisions that ripple through society, shaping our communities and relationships.
This insight feels especially relevant today, as we navigate our own complex socio-political landscape. How often do we stop to consider the broader implications of our actions or the unintended consequences that may follow? It’s a timely reminder that the past is never far from the present, and we have much to learn from those who came before us.
Silver Lining Redux doesn’t just rest on its historical laurels, though. It moves through the eras, from the baby boomer and flower power movements of the ’60s and ’70s to the millennial generation of today. There’s a universality to the story, one that speaks to multiple generations, reminding us that while times may change, the human experience remains remarkably consistent.
“It moves through different settings, from as far back as the 1960s to the millennial era of today. It tackles various timelines,” the producer stated.
But this is not just a show about history. At its heart, it’s a love story—between friends, between lovers, and between generations. The producer describes it as a story of “true love and true friendship” set against a changing world, and this is where the musical truly shines. It’s about the choices we make in love, in life, and in society, and how those choices echo through time.
“We wanted to show that every choice we make has an effect, and we have to take responsibility for the consequences. Whether we acted unconsciously, out of fear, or because we didn’t know better, it’s important to recognize the impact of our actions,” Legarda explained.
“Whether you’re in a position of power or an ordinary person, we all make decisions that affect those around us. We must acknowledge this and, if necessary, apologize for any mistakes so that we can find forgiveness and justice,” she underscored.
The production itself has already garnered critical acclaim, earning five nominations at the prestigious Aliw Awards, including nods for Best Director, Best Composer, and Best Musical.
The cast’s chemistry brings the story to life, with standout performances that transport audiences from one era to the next. Raul Montesa as Raul, Krystal Brimner as Julia, and award-winning and seasoned actor-director Ricky Davao as Leo make up the cast’s outstanding roster. The ensemble also includes Rodel Pingol, Dippy Arceo as Dalai, Sara Sicam as Young Josie, Jay Cortez as Young Raul, and Albert Silos as Young Leo.
Watching Silver Lining Redux, you can’t help but feel swept up in the vibrancy of these characters’ lives, as they explore everything from youthful adventures to the challenges of adulthood, all set against the backdrop of UP Diliman during the tumultuous ’70s.
It’s a story that feels as relevant today as ever. While it may explore the past, Silver Lining Redux is ultimately about the future—about the choices we make and the legacy we leave behind. In that way, it’s not just a musical; it’s a mirror, reflecting our struggles and triumphs, and challenging us to take responsibility for the world we create.
As the musical prepares to return this November, there’s no doubt it will continue to resonate with audiences, young and old alike. After all, history has a way of repeating itself—but only if we fail to learn from it.
