Contributed by Sandy Cagurangan
As nostalgic OPM music from the past takes the center stage, plays such as “Ang Huling El Bimbo,” “Rak of Aegis,” “Mula sa Buwan,” and more are gaining attention. This year, Tanghalang Una Obra, in partnership with The Hammock Production Inc. and Twin Bill Theater, is set to showcase “Jeproks: The Musical.” The play celebrates the life story of the Filipino rock icon Mike Hanopol and features his legendary music.
Starred by David Ezra, the son of Asia’s Timeless Diva Dulce, he is ready to take on the role of Mike Hanopol in the upcoming musical this November. The production will include 15 performances of Mike Hanopol’s classic hits, such as “Laki Sa Layaw” (Jeproks) and “Balong Malalim.”
“Nung cinontact po nila ako to do this, I was very excited and to show a different side of me,” David shared. Known mainly as a Broadway or classical singer, he revealed in an interview that “Hindi po alam ng marami is I’m a rock singer by heart.”
He explained that he used to be a lead guitarist in a band during college, supported by his mother who watched his gigs. However, she told him, “Alam mo anak napakagaling mong tumugtog ng gitara pero ang gift mo talaga is singing.”
Over the years, David established himself as a singer. When he was offered this project, he said, “Hindi po ako nagdalawang isip kasi it’s going to be a different era of my career also I have to showcase my rock side na matagal ko na din pong pinapangarap na gawin.”
Even though the play features iconic rock music from the 70s and early 80s, David believes that Filipino pop culture continues to gain popularity, as this generation appreciates its beauty. He concluded, “ito pong project na ‘to honestly, hindi po siya mahirap iparating sa tao.”
“Jeproks: The Musical” will have show dates from November 20 to 23 and November 27 to 30 at the GSIIS Theater, J.W Diokno Blvd, CCP Complex. It is directed by Frannie Zamora, with the playwright still being written by Nicolas Pichay.
