Repertory Philippines (REP) will debut its new theater, REP Theater at Citywalk in Eastwood City, Quezon City, with the interactive musical Jepoy and the Magic Circle starting Oct. 5.
Directed by Joy Virata, this family-friendly fantasy is based on the Palanca Award-winning short story The Magic Circle by Gilda Cordero Fernando. The English adaptation is written by award-winning playwright Rody Vera, marking his first collaboration with REP. Music and lyrics are by Ejay Yatco, who also serves as musical director.
The musical follows Jepoy, a young boy whose routine laundry day becomes a magical adventure when his dog, Galis, drags a dress into a mystical forest. There, Jepoy encounters Filipino folklore creatures like tikbalang, kapre, and engkanto, who are fighting to protect their home.
“This production introduces children to Filipino magical creatures through vibrant costumes, music, and puppetry,” said Virata. “It’s an excellent opportunity for kids to appreciate their culture and the environment.”
The cast includes Noel Comia Jr., Elian Dominguez, and Yhuan Gatbunton as Jepoy; Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante and Abi Sulit as Aling Barang; and Francis Gatmaytan and Cara Barredo as Galis. Hans Eckstein, Julienne Mendoza, and Joey Vargas play the Kapre, while Pinky Marquez portrays Doña Geronima. The ensemble features a diverse group of performers, including Chesko Rodriguez, Broey Divinagracia, and many others.
The creative team includes Barredo as assistant director, Viñas as choreographer, and Infante for set design. The show is a milestone for REP, marking their first production in their new Eastwood location.
“We are thrilled to open our new theater with a production that celebrates Filipino culture,” said REP president & CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio. “We look forward to enriching lives through theater and welcoming a new audience.”
Jepoy and the Magic Circle opens in October. For tickets, contact REP at 0966-905-4013 or 0962-691-8540, or email promotions@repphil.org or sales@repphil.org.
