For years, Gladys Reyes has ruled dramas and soap operas with her fierce portrayals of mothers and villains. Now, she’s singing a different tune—literally—in The Heart of Music, her first lead role in a musical film.
Reyes plays Madonna, a kind-hearted nanny whose story unfolds through song and emotion. It’s a role that recalls Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music, but with a distinctly Filipino soul.
The actress delivers a performance that feels like a breath of fresh air. Her comedic timing is sharp and natural, adding humor and ease to the film. It’s a refreshing turn that shows her versatility and ability to connect with audiences in a new way.
Determined to do justice to the part, Reyes trained her voice at the University of the Philippines and learned to play the piano herself—no doubles needed.
“Acting alone isn’t enough,” she said, noting the challenge of performing alongside seasoned musical theater veterans Robert Seña and Isay Alvarez.
The cast also features Jon Lucas, Angel Guardian, Sean Lucas, Elijah Alejo, Angel Laco, and Stanley Abuloc as siblings and newcomers Noreen and Markhy as the youngest members of the family.
Jopay Paguia and Joshua Zamora deliver engaging supporting roles, while Rey “PJ” Abellana, Marissa Sanchez, and “Tawag ng Tanghalan” finalist Jennie Gabriel play important roles.
The film follows Madonna, a young teacher who, after being scammed by an illegal recruiter, is forced to take a job as a nanny in the home of a widowed military general with eight children. To her family, she pretends to be working abroad in the Middle East, hiding her true circumstances.
Despite her own struggles, Madonna quickly connects with the children through her gentle, maternal nature. She helps them heal from the loss of their mother, offering comfort and encouragement without trying to take her place. Instead, she becomes their guide and support system.
Written by Mario Alaman, who also composed 16 original songs, The Heart of Music uses music to tell its story of love, family, and faith. Musical director Mandi Ferrer and sound engineer Ronald de Asis shape the film’s soundscape, weaving together pop, ballad, and theater styles that enrich its emotional storytelling.
Directed by Italian filmmaker Paolo Bertola (Unspoken Letters), the film is produced by Cube Studios and Utmost Creatives Motion Pictures.
