Lea plays Helen Bechdel, an English teacher and former actress who is the mother of Alison, who tells the story and is played by Cris Villonco. When her father dies unexpectedly, graphic novelist Alison dives deep into her past to tell the story of the volatile, brilliant, one-of-a-kind man whose temperament and secrets defined her family and her life. Moving between past and present, Alison relives her unique childhood playing at the family’s Bechdel Funeral Home, her growing understanding of her own sexuality, and the looming, unanswerable questions about her father’s hidden desires.
“Fun Home” is a based on Alison Bechdel's best-selling graphic memoir and features music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by Lisa Kron. It will be Lea’s first musical in Manila since she played Grizabella in “Cats” in 2010. Lea’s leading man is Eric Kunze, who has starred in Broadway productions such as “Miss Saigon” and “Les Miserables”. He played Marius opposite Salonga’s Eponine on Broadway, 23 years ago. He will be playing Bruce Bechdel, Alison’s complex father who is a part-time mortician and avid home restorer.
Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante will play Medium Alison and Katie Bradshaw and Andee Achocoso alternate as Small Alison. Yanah Laurel plays Joan with Ronan Crisologo and Daniel Drilon alternating as Christian. Noel Comia and Albert Silos alternate as John while Laurence Mossman plays Roy / Pete / Mark and Bobby Jeremy. Director Bobby Garcia says: “Dreams do come true. It is an honor to be able to stage ‘Fun Home’ in Manila with this stellar cast. It is a ground breaking and trailblazing musical that needs to be seen by audiences all over the world. I am thrilled that it will premiere internationally in Manila.” Joining Garcia in the Creative Team are Musical Director Ceejay Javier, Vocal Director ManMan Angsico, Choreographer Cecile Martinez, Light Designer Adam Honoré, Set Designer Faust Peneyra, Costume Designer Oz Go, Sound Designer Kevin Heard, Projection Designer GA Fallarme and Hair and Make Up Designer Johann dela Fuente.
The New York producers of “Fun Home” issues a statement saying, “We’re thrilled to have the first international production of ‘Fun Home’ confirmed for the Philippines, and how exciting to have Lea Salonga, one of Broadway’s most beloved stars, leading the company,”
The musical is recommended for ages 13 and up. Parental Supervision is encouraged.Children under the age of 7 are not permitted in the theatre. It plays a limited run from November 10 - 27, 2016 at the RCBC Theatre Makati.
