Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical announced that West End actor Matt Blaker will play Frank Farmer in the Manila debut of The Bodyguard The Musical, opening Sept. 26 at the 780-seat Proscenium Theater.
Blaker, a graduate of the Guildford School of Acting, has performed in The Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, Jesus Christ Superstar, Chicago, Carousel, Cabaret, South Pacific and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. He has also appeared on Netflix’s The Crown and performed with Jersey Boys for over 700 million viewers on China’s CCTV New Year’s Eve broadcast.
Blaker said the character of Frank Farmer is “fueled by both duty and passion. He’s a man of many sides — family-driven yet fiercely committed to his work — and it’s a gift to be able to portray such a layered character.”
Filipino talent joins the cast alongside Blaker. Christine Allado stars as Rachel Marron. Sheena Palad plays Nicki Marron, while Elian Santos and Giani Sarita alternate as Fletcher. CJ Navato is Ray Court and covers for Frank Farmer, with Tim Yap as Sy Spector, John Joven-Uy as Bill Devaney, and Vien King as Agent Laney.
Other cast members include Jasper Jimenez (Tony Scibelli), Paji Arceo (Douglas), Jasmine Fitzgerald (Rachel Marron and Nicki Marron cover), Radha, Fay Castro, Winchester Lopez, Carmelle Ros (Rory), Richardson Yadao (Bobby), Iya Villanueva, Vyen Villanueva (Jimmy), Alex Aure, Julio Laforteza, Natalie Duque, PJ Rebullida, Lorenz Martinez, and Lani Ligot.
The production is directed by Robbie Guevara, with Raul Montesa as assistant director, Daniel Bartolome as musical director, Mio Infante as scenographer, Arnold Trinidad as choreographer, Shakira Villa-Symes as lighting designer, Aji Manalo as sound engineer, GA Fallarme as video and projection designer, Jay Aranda as technical director, and Elliza Aurelio as hair and makeup designer.
The Bodyguard The Musical is presented through special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide. The show runs from Sept. 26 to Oct. 19 with 8:00 p.m. performances on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3:00 p.m. matinees on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are available at ticketworld.com.ph.
