Filipino stage show “Katy! The Musical” will be performed at the Qatar National Theater on August 6 and 7, according to the organisers. There are two shows scheduled for each day, one at 4:30pm and the other at 7:30pm. Tickets cost QR65 apiece.
Originally scheduled to be performed in February, Tanghalang Overseas Pinoy had to delay the performances after they unexpectedly lost their two lead actresses. Karen Siemers, the actress originally casted to play Katy, had to move back to US after her husband got a better job opportunity. Joan Mutuc, another actress who was playing the role of Hanna, went on leave in December 2014 and did not return to Qatar.
The organisers say they had no choice but to delay the premiere and recast the roles. Farrahnel Delos (originally playing the role of Mary Walter) was recast as Katy.
The venue, too, posed a problem. The next available dates were August 6 and 7.
The play features 21 performers, nine male and twelve female, many of them making their debuts as theatre actors. Most though are well known around the singing circles in Doha, with some having done well in singing competitions and some being members of church choirs.
Farrahnel Delos, who plays Katy, is an architect by profession and has a soprano’s vocal range. She is making her theatre debut with the play, but the organisers believe she has been able to “transform herself into a fine actress” during the course of rehearsals.
May Caseres Chiuco, who plays Olivia, works at Hamad Medical Corporation as Infection Preventionist, and has been singing since she was 8. She did a short stint as a solo performer and a band member in the 90s.
Jun-Jun Pascual plays Pepping. Pascual’s singing talent made him part of the famous The Singing Cooks & Waiters at Atbp in Manila. In Doha, he joined The Sacred Heart of Jesus choir, doing Tenor & Bass parts.
Manny Belmonte Escala plays Tatay. Even though he was not cast in the role originally, his performance during the rehearsals made the directors reconsider their casting when the play’s premiere was moved.
Created by Ryan Cayabyab and Director Jose Javier Reyes, the play is inspired from the real life story of the famous Katy Dela Cruz during her years as an entertainer in Bodabil. Hailed as the “The Queen of Filipino Jazz,” her career lasted for eight decade. Her story is that of an artist truly committed to her craft and the sacrifices she has to make to keep going on.
Part of the proceeds will go to helping distressed Overseas Filipino Workers with their air tickets through Philippine Overseas Labor Office and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.