Anthony Rosaldo surprised the crowd at the closing of 'Once on This Island' on Sunday 

MANILA -- 9 Works Theatrical ended the limited run of the 1995 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Musical and the 2018 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical "Once on This Island" last night, September 29, but surprised the crowd with the announcement of the company's newest original Filipino musical "Liwanag sa Dilim."

At the end of the curtain call, "Rent" actor Anthony Rosaldo burst into the titular song, a familiar anthem from the 2022 Presidential campaign of former Vice President Leni Robredo. "Liwanag sa Dilim" is composed by Rico Blanco and performed by Rivermaya. 

The original musical will hit the stage in March 2025. It will be from the same producers of the hit musical "Eto Na! Musikal nAPO!" which featured the songs of OPM legends APO Hiking Society.

Rosaldo appeared as Roger in this year's reimagined staging of "Rent," a rock musical with music, lyrics, and a book by Jonathan Larson. Loosely based on the 1896 opera "La Bohème" by Giacomo Puccini. 

"The chance to originate a role in a new show is quite exciting," Rosaldo said. "I’m [really] looking forward to that challenge. 9 Works did a great staging of 'Rent' so I strongly believe that 'Liwanag sa Dilim' will also be as awesome!"  

Apart from "Liwanag sa Dilim," he also loves other Rico Blanco or Rivermaya's songs like "Himala." 

"Growing up, it’s been one of my go-to songs. We [always] jam this whenever a friend brings a guitar. I’m a big fan of Rivermaya’s songs!" he said.

Currently, auditions for the next production are still ongoing. For more updates, visit 9 Works Theatrical's social media platforms.

Here is the teaser for the upcoming show.