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With a limited run until December 15, this musical spotlights Paskong Pinoy and stories of homecoming 

Christmas is the season of joy and love, and Repertory Philippines (REP) is amplifying the festive spirit with its first-ever original jukebox musical, Going Home to Christmas: A Jose Mari Chan Musical. Featuring a curated selection of the beloved songwriter’s greatest hits, the production brings to life timeless songs like Christmas in Our Hearts and A Perfect Christmas. This heartwarming celebration is powered by a stellar cast of theater veterans and a creative dream team of renowned artists.

Running from November 29 to December 15 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza in Makati, the musical showcases 22 of Jose Mari Chan’s most cherished works, reimagined through the artistry of acclaimed Musical Director Ejay Yatco.

Directed by REP Artistic Director Jeremy Domingo, with a story written by Gawad Buhay winners Luna Griño-Inocian and Robbie Guevara alongside Aliw Awardee Joel Trinidad, the musical unfolds tales of connection, love, and rediscovery as characters journey home for the holidays.

From a couple on their second honeymoon to lovelorn best friends even to hardworking OFWs looking forward to being with their family, Going Home to Christmas paints a vivid picture of Pinoy holiday traditions the whole family can cherish. As the characters find their way home for the festive season, audiences will be treated to heartwarming moments filled with laughter, love, and a touch of nostalgia.

Capping off REP’s 2024 season, the production showcases a talented cast led by respected theater actors Carla Guevara-Laforteza as Pat, Lorenz Martinez as Arnie, Noel Rayos as Richard, Neomi Gonzales as Josie, Floyd Tena as JR, Mayen Bustamante-Cadd as Em, Neo Rivera as JD, Justine Narciso as Raya, and Carla Martinez as Lola. Joining them are Alfritz, Roxy Aldiosa, Allan Dale, Johann Enriquez, Naths Everett, Juancho Gabriel, Sean Inocencio, Rafael Jimenez, Gary Junsay, Krystal Kane, Davy Narciso, Sheena Lee, Pappel, Maron Rozelle, Basti Santos, Julia Serad, and Zid Yarcia. Mika Espinosa and Onyl Torres complete the cast as swings. 

The production is supported by Franco Ramos as choreographer, Ohm David as set designer, Hershee Tantiado as costume designer, GA Fallarme as projection designer, Meliton Roxas Jr. as lights designer, and Aji Manalo as sound designer. The property designer is Julia Pacificador, while the production’s dramaturg is Davidson Oliveros. The technical director is D Cortezano, with Patricia Gregorio serving as production manager, Rafa Lubigan as stage manager, and Rio Tanchuling as assistant stage manager.

“I’m honored that REP, which is known for its decades of bringing quality theater to Filipino audiences, selected my body of work as their inspiration for this holiday production, which is their first-ever original jukebox musical,” shares Chan. “I’m always grateful that my music has brought so much joy to a lot of people. I’m excited to see all the stories and elements that REP has weaved together to add new meaning and life to these songs.” 

“Every Filipino knows September 1 means hearing Christmas in Our Hearts on repeat, earning Jose Mari Chan the well-deserved title of Mr. Christmas. His beloved music adds that heartwarming Filipino touch to this season. It’s an honor that REP has received his full blessing to bring his celebrated songs to the stage, allowing audiences to experience the magic and warmth of his music in a new and dynamic way,” says Domingo. 

“We hope to create a memorable experience that resonates with everyone who loves the Christmas season as we do. With Going Home to Christmas – A Jose Mari Chan Musical, we want to showcase why Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year.”