“Buongiorno!” This cheerful greeting sets the tone for a theatrical journey as Ephesus Teatron Group Inc. presents Carlo Collodi’s “Pinocchio,” a musical adaptation of one of the world’s most beloved stories.
Set on Oct. 9, 10, and 11 at the Activity Center of Ayala Malls Feliz in Pasig City, the production promises an enchanting blend of music, movement, imagination, and timeless life lessons.
The story of Pinocchio has fascinated both children and adults for generations. At its heart is a wooden puppet longing to become a real boy. Along the way, Pinocchio discovers that becoming “real” is not merely a matter of appearance, but also of character, integrity and love.
For Ephesus Teatron’s stage adaptation, audiences can expect vibrant choreography, memorable songs, colorful costumes, and a cast committed to bringing the classic tale to life with energy and heart.
Leading the production is seasoned musical theater artist and director Sweet Samaniego Buchanan. The musical arranger is Pipo Cifra.
Brie Mosquito takes the title role of Pinocchio. He is joined by accomplished theater performers, including Red Nuestro as Geppetto; Sweet Buchanan as the Blue Fairy; Sheila Gamo as Angelina; Bhen Espina as Antonio; Nazer Salcedo as the Coachman; and Dusty Suarez as the Coachman/Geppetto/Town’s People.
The others in the cast are promising young artists Althea Ruedas as Candlewick/Gino; Sofia Gabrielle Magno as Candlewick; Jay Paulo Danganan as Signore Volpone “The Fox”; Paulo Esteva and Ed Vincent Bonoan as Signore Gatto “The Cat”; Vinz Cantillo as Signore Volpone “The Fox”/Toy/Town’s People; Sofia Yzabel Mallares as Candlewick/Town’s People; Erika Mae Salas and Joahnah Marie Sevilla as Blue Fairies/Town’s People.
Adding further excitement is a talented ensemble made up of understudies Michelle Ann Lacorte and Jethro Leone Ting, Kheem Evelio Pedrosa, Lloyd Pilapil, Lunelenne Darilay and Clara Bianca Esteva, Paul David, Jan Keith Campus, Mattea Recana, Ann Charlotte Gamo, Solana Mel 18 Lacorte and Jordin Louise Ting.
Beyond the music and spectacle, Pinocchio carries lessons that remain relevant today. In an age when young people navigate a world filled with distractions, pressures and difficult choices, the story is a reminder of the importance of honesty, responsibility, courage and compassion. It speaks to parents, educators, and children alike, offering wisdom wrapped in entertainment.—CONTRIBUTED
Ayala Malls Feliz is on Amang Rodriguez corner J.P. Rizal, Barangay Dela Paz, Pasig City. For ticket reservations and inquiries, contact Ephesus Teatron Group Inc. at 0945 991 1840.
