The Producers finally opens

(PRESS RELEASE)

THE PRODUCERS, based on the 1968 Mel Brooks movie of the same name, was written by Brooks and Thomas Meehan, with songs arranged by Glen Kelly and Doug Besterman. The story of THE PRODUCERS concerns two theatrical producers, Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom, who hatch a scam to stage the worst Broadway musical they can find, so that they can get rich from investors and then pocket the money when the show flops. After finding the script “Springtime for Hitler” by crazed Nazi playwright Franz Liebkind, they bring on board Roger DeBris, Carmen Ghia as well as their sexpot secretary, Ulla. Their scheme falls apart, however, when “Springtime for Hitler” becomes a smash hit instead.

The humor of the show draws on ridiculous accents, homosexual stereotypes, and Nazis, along with many show business in-jokes. It is a satirical comedy that can be appreciated by both insiders and outsiders of the theatre industry.

Directed by Jaime del Mundo, the Manila premier of THE PRODUCERS features top caliber actors CARLO OROSA and ROBIE ZIALCITA alternating as Max Bialystock, the beleaguered producer facing bankruptcy, who woos little old ladies into backing his shows.

TOPPER FABREGAS takes on the role of Leopold “Leo” Bloom, a cowardly and infantile hapless accountant who first has the idea to produce a flop on purpose.

Media icon G TÖNGI tackles the role of Ulla, a blonde Swedish bombshell who auditions for the show and becomes Max and Leo’s secretary/receptionist.

Actor-director JOEL TRINIDAD plays Franz Liebkind, a former Nazi whose play is chosen by Max and Leo as a definite flop.

Stage and screen veteran NOEL TRINIDAD (Joel’s father) takes on the role of Roger De Bris, the flamboyant homosexual cross-dresser chosen to direct the show. He alternates the role of Roger with one of the icons of Philippine musical theater, AUDIE GEMORA.

Versatile actor NOEL RAYOS takes the role of Carmen Ghia, Roger’s “common law assistant.”

The ensemble is composed of Nelsito Gomez, Steven Conde, Tristan Cheng, Jay Pangilinan, Leroy de Guzman, Natalie Everett, Daff Abear, Liesl Batucan, Micaela Pineda, Shalee Vicencio, and Gemini Quintos.

THE PRODUCERS is full of irreverent humor, silly gags, outlandish characters, and, of course, showstopping musical numbers. The show runs from November 15 to December 15, 2013.

All performances are at Onstage, 2/F, Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas corner Legaspi St., Makati City.

 Photos by: Vic Guerrero