Broadway Actor Dan Domenech Loves Working With Pinoy Actors In 'Tarzan The Musical'

BROADWAY ACTOR Dan Domenech is so happy to play the title role in “Tarzan”, the Viva-Atlantis co-production of the Disney musical best known for Phil Collins’ Oscar-winning song, “You’ll Be in My Heart”. Very charming in person with a winning personality, he was born in Brooklyn, New York, the second of two kids. His elder sister is now a bank executive. Their parents live in Long Island. “I think they’ll like it here in Manila,” he says.

Did he have any formal training in acting? “None. I was taking up computer graphics but I’ve always wanted to act on stage. I auditioned for a community theatre production of ‘Rent’ and I got it. I made my debut in Broadway playing the role of Drew in ‘Rock of Ages’. I’ve also appeared in “Sister Act”, “Wonderland”, “Rent”, “Altar Boyz” and “The Who’s Tommy”, touring all over the U.S.A. Last year. On TV, I played the role of Chase Madison in two episodes of ‘Glee’. I’ve also done a lot of work as a choreographer for TV and the movies.”

So how does he find Manila? “I’m having a good time working here. I love the city, the people, the atmosphere and the food. I’ve already tried eating balut and dinuguan. And the people I work with like Calvin Millado, Eugene Villaluz, Ima Castro and Jeffrey Hidalgo, they’re all great and very talented.”

How does he find Rachel Anne Go, who’s Jane to his Tarzan? “She’s perfect. You can’t ask anything more in a leading lady. She makes me look good.”

Directed by Chari Arespacochaga, “Tarzan the Musical” will be staged at the Meralco Theatre from June 14 to July 7. For tickets, call Viva Atlantis at 687-5853 local 661 or 673 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.