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The highly anticipated musical Liwanag sa Dilim opened to a resounding success, with an audience filled with icons and legends who showed their appreciation through thunderous applause.
At the heart of it all stood Kapuso singer Anthony Rosaldo, breathing life into the role of Elesi with a performance that was both powerful and heartfelt.
For Anthony, this role was more than just a performance—it was a milestone. The musical, built around the iconic songs of Rico Blanco, demanded not only vocal prowess but also depth, humor, and raw emotion.
Challenges and pressure
While the audience witnessed an artist in full control, behind the scenes, Anthony had wrestled with self-doubt, grueling rehearsals, and the immense weight of expectation.
"I've been through so much stress and felt really, really not confident about my work before this day came. The role required so much from me—physically, vocally, emotionally," he told GMA Integrated News during a post-performance interview.
Comedy, in particular, was a new challenge, one he was unsure he could master. But as the audience erupted in laughter at the right moments, all his worries faded, replaced by the sheer joy of connection.
"I wasn't sure if my punchlines would land, but to hear the audience laugh—God, it was such a blessing," he said.
Leading a musical featuring the iconic songs of Rico Blanco is no small feat. Anthony knew the weight of expectation that came with the role. He was not just a performer; he was the anchor, carrying the story and setting the tone.
"It's a big, big, big responsibility. They trusted me to anchor the show," Anthony said.
Even Rico Blanco himself, who had only attended one music rehearsal, was visibly pleased.
"To see his reaction on stage when we called him—it was a sigh of relief," Anthony said.
Much of Anthony's growth in the production was shaped by "Liwanag sa Dilim" director Robbie Guevara, whose guidance helped him navigate the intricacies of the role.
"Direk Robbie was my guiding light. This was my first time doing comedic antics on stage, and I still see myself as a theater newbie. Before we started, I searched for Direk's eyes. He believed in me. He knew that when he cast me as Elesi, I truly was Elesi."
At its core, "Liwanag sa Dilim" is a journey through emotions—joy, sorrow, and self-discovery. It doesn't just entertain; it speaks to the soul.
Anthony believes the show will resonate deeply with those searching for their truth, leaving them with a renewed sense of hope and a heart full of meaning.
"I hope it helps those who are searching for their truth. I hope they walk away with a happy heart and a fresh perspective."
Beyond the stage lights and applause, the role of Elesi was deeply personal for Anthony. He poured his own experiences, his own struggles and triumphs, into the performance.
"Yes, may hugot ako dito. The whole act is so heavy. But I believe that even in sadness, there is power. You use it to inspire, to connect, to touch lives."
With more shows lined up, Anthony is eager to relive the experience, and he also expressed excitement for his alternate and fellow Kapuso star Khalil Ramos.
"Khalil will bring his own magic to Elesi. He's known for Tick, Tick… Boom! and I'm sure audiences will be impressed," he said.
The musical, also the first production under 9 Works Theatrical for 2025 — will run from Friday to Sunday until April 13, 2025, at the RCBC Plaza in Makati City.
Tickets are available via Ticket2Me, with prices ranging from P2,200 for balcony seats to P3,900 for orchestra center premium.
Fellow Kapuso Rita Daniela and other cast members, including promising actors such as CJ Navato, Nicole Omillo, Alexa Ilacad, and Vien King, join Khalil and Anthony on stage.
Also part of the cast are Noemi Gonzales, Arnel Carrion, Boo Gabunada, Jon Abella, Raul Montesa, Rica Laguardia, Lani Ligot, Jasper Jimenez, Mark Tayag, Derrick Gozos, Chez Cuenca, Paji Arceo, Iya Villanueva, Lucylle Tan, Denzel Chang and Brianna Bunagan. —JCB, GMA Integrated News
