5 reasons to catch Resorts World Manila's 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'
5 reasons to catch Resorts World Manila's 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'
Based on Ian Fleming's novel and the 1968 fantasy adventure musical film, Resorts World Manila's delightful musical is a must-see spectacle. And here are just a few reasons why.
(All photos by Erickson dela Cruz)
Based on Ian Fleming's novel and the 1968 fantasy adventure musical film, Resorts World Manila's delightful musical is a must-see spectacle. And here are just a few reasons why.
(All photos by Erickson dela Cruz)
That theme song
youtube embed goes here!
Director Jaime del Mundo recalled that when he first saw the 1968 film that inspired this stage musical, he and just about everyone else were still singing and humming the theme song long after they left the theater. Chances are, you will, too after watching this staging. Kids of all ages may even be prompted to learn the Chitty Chitty Dance Dance as performed in this video by lead stars Albert Silos, Isabeli Araneta-Elizalde, Noel Comia, Jr. and Zoey Alvarade.
Gian Magdangal as Caractacus Potts
As the aptly named crackpot inventor, Gian displayed his affinity for family entertainment shows that got him a lengthy gig at Hong Kong Disneyland. Since his return to the country, Gian has been a standout in musicals like Disney's Newsies. Legendary actor Dick Van Dyke who originally played Caractacus Potts would be proud to see Gian's equally memorable take on the character in "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang."
Doll on a Music Box
If there's any other song that should stick to one's mind aside from the unforgettable theme song, it should be this show-stopping number initially performed by Yanah Laurel who plays Truly Scrumptious and later joined by Gian himself. It certainly doesn't hurt that the two performers have palpable chemistry onstage. This scene was reportedly done in one take in the original film and it was nothing short of amazing to see it interpreted live onstage.
Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo as The Baroness
It's always a treat to see Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo perform. Whether playing a lead or supporting character, the First Lady of Philippine Musical Theater always deliver a memorable performance and her interpretation of the child-hating The Baroness is no exception. Menchu is particularly riveting in "The Bombie Samba," another show-stopping number on the show.
Boris and Goran
As memorable performances go, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is full of them. Among them are Raymund Concepcion's The Baron, James Paolleli's Grandpa Potts, Michael Williams's double take on Lord Scrumptious and the Toymaker and Lorenz Martinez as the Childcatcher. But Mako Alonso and Reb Atadero as the bungling Vulgarian lackeys of The Baron and The Baron particularly stood out for stealing every scene they're in. Providing comedy relief in between scenes, their interaction with the audience at one point in the show is downright hilarious.