Yesterday, Manila welcomed the opening of “Request sa Radyo,” a unique theatrical experience that delves deep into the echoes of solitude through the meticulous nightly routine of a solitary woman. Staged at the prestigious Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Makati City, this play offers a profound exploration of quiet introspection and the hidden yearnings for connection. With internationally revered talents Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon alternating in the solo performance, this limited engagement is set to redefine theatrical storytelling in the Philippines.
The strictly limited engagement, featuring 20 performances, began on October 10 and will run until October 20, 2024, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Makati City, Philippines. Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon will take turns performing the solo piece in scheduled alternating performances.
The Essence of Solitude
Crafting Emotions Without Words
Franz Xaver Kroetz’s “Request Program” captures the essence of solitude through the meticulous routine of a solitary woman. Her interaction with a radio program unfurls layers of profound loneliness, portraying how isolation deeply embeds itself in human existence. This narrative beautifully converts mundane activities into a captivating exploration of the human condition, leaving the audience with lingering thoughts on the complexities of solitude.
Stellar Cast, Stellar Performance
Featuring a duo of the Philippines’ most celebrated actors, this production sees Salonga and De Leon in alternating solo performances. Each brings their unique interpretation to the stage, enriched by their vast experiences and international acclaim. This casting choice alone makes “Request sa Radyo” a monumental event in Philippine theater.
Lea Salonga: A Global Icon
Lea Salonga, a beloved Filipino star renowned worldwide for her unparalleled voice and perfect pitch, has captivated audiences for decades. Her illustrious career includes iconic roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables, earning her both a Tony Award and an Olivier Award. Salonga’s undeniable talent and global reach make her a true icon in the world of theater. Reflecting on her involvement in Request Sa Radyo, she enthused, “When I was asked by Clint and Bobby if I was interested at all in this project, an experience that told a probable and possible story that absolutely applies to our people, I said sure, even before knowing the details. It will be a challenge though, but hopefully, it will lend a figurative voice to those who are suffering.”
Dolly De Leon: A Rising International Sensation
Dolly De Leon, a celebrated actress in film, television, and theater, has swiftly emerged as a global sensation. Her breakthrough role in the critically acclaimed film “EO” earned her Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations, solidifying her status as one of the most sought-after actresses in the world. De Leon’s versatility and passion for her craft shine through in every performance. She expressed her excitement about returning to the stage, saying, “I’m so looking forward to coming back to my first love, the theatre, after five long years, and I am equally excited that it is in Request Sa Radyo—a play that is relevant and timely.”
Behind the Scenes
A Creative Team Like No Other
The genius behind the curtain includes Clint Ramos and Bobby Garcia, whose visions for the play have set new benchmarks in theatrical storytelling. Ramos, a 6-time Tony Award nominee and recipient of a Tony Award for his designs in Eclipsed—making him the first designer of color to win in this category—brings his innovative design philosophy to the production, ensuring that every aspect resonates with thematic depth.
Garcia, a respected figure in the world of theatre, returns to Manila after a four-year hiatus to direct the play with a fresh perspective on loneliness and isolation—themes that are poignantly relevant today. Reflecting on his homecoming project, Request Sa Radyo, Garcia shared, “The last show I worked on in Manila was The Band’s Visit, which sadly never got to open because of the pandemic.
It was a poignant musical about loneliness, isolation, and the need for human connection. It feels almost like fate that I now return to Manila after four years to direct Request Sa Radyo, a chilling and haunting piece of theatre about those very same issues, but completely different in approach, form, and style. I am thrilled to be working with two of the country’s finest performers, Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon, who will alternate in performing this unique theatrical experience about our universal need for human contact and the global crisis that is loneliness. I am also thrilled to reconnect with Manila audiences after some time away and re-engage with them through the art of storytelling.”
Experience the Unspoken
Engage in a Unique Theatrical Exploration
“Request sa Radyo” goes beyond traditional theater by offering a space to reflect on the silent struggles of everyday life. It challenges the audience to find meaning in silence and to connect with the undercurrents of solitude that we often overlook.
A Limited Engagement Not to be Missed
With a strictly limited run from October 10 to October 20, 2024, tickets are expected to be in high demand. Audience members are encouraged to secure their seats early to experience this unique and transformative theatrical event.
For more information on ticketing and showtimes, visit the Request Sa Radyo’s website or follow the show’s updates on Instagram and Facebook. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this extraordinary blend of talent and narrative, where every silent moment speaks volumes.
