One More Chance, a beloved Filipino romantic drama film that captured hearts and stayed in memory long after its release in 2007, is set to make a grand stage entrance.
The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) has announced an adaptation of this classic hugot movie that will bring the emotional love story of Popoy and Basha to life in a new form and with the inclusion of music from the OPM folk-pop band Ben&Ben.
Cathy Garcia-Molina, who helmed the original film, will also direct the musical.
READ: Tabing Ilog: The Musical, a Gen Z revival of '90s classic
One More Chance: The Musical synopsis
The synopsis of the musical runs on the same thread as the original film.
It tells the story of college lovers Popoy and Basha, who experience the ups and downs of their relationship as they grow older and pursue their individual ambitions.
The Main Cast
This section presents the main characters in the musical, how they are envisioned based on the character brief given during the auditions, who will fill these roles, and what other shows these performers had before they took on this musical.
Popoy
Popoy is an engineer in his 20s who works in a construction firm. He takes initiative with an eye to achieve his goals and grabs every opportunity to make it happen. He feels the weight of societal norms and expectations, particularly those related to traditional male roles.
The role of Popoy, originally played by John Lloyd Cruz in the movie, will be brought to life on stage alternatively by Sam Concepcion and CJ Navato.
Aside from this musical, Sam also participated in the theater productions of Peter Pan and Idol.
He was also part of the drama film Way Back Home (2011), musical-comedy film I Do Bidoo Bidoo: Heto nAPO Sila! (2012), and romance Para sa Broken Hearted (2018), to name a few.
CJ, for his part, took part in television shows such as Goin' Bulilit and Luv U, as well as the series The Good Son (2017), Pangako Sa 'Yo (2015), and Ang Probinsyano (2015).
Basha
Basha is an architect and shirt designer in her 20s who embodies a blend of creativity and silent strength.
Known for her tendency to bottle up emotions, she prioritizes the common good and steers clear of confrontations, a trait that, while admirable, sometimes comes at the expense of her own emotional well-being. She lost herself somewhere during her relationship with Popoy.
Anna Luna and Nicole Omillo will alternate in the role of Basha, originally played by Bea Alonzo.
Some of the shows where you might have seen Anna were Ipaglaban Mo, Heneral Luna (2015), Birdshot (2016), Changing Partners (2017), and The Day After Valentine's (2018).
On the other hand, Nicole appeared in the movie Indak (2019) and 2023 mini-series The Rain in Espana and Safe Skies, Archer.
Tricia
Tricia is a spirited 20-something singer and songwriter whose artistry is as vibrant as her personality.
Spunky yet not boisterous, she navigates the world with a self-awareness that's as compelling as her music. This blend of spirited energy and introspection shapes her creative output.
Kiara Takahashi and Sheena Belarmino will share the character of Tricia.
Kiara was in Pinoy Big Brother: Eight, Batch 4 in 2019, while Sheena is currently in ASAP Natin ‘To as one of New Gen Divas.
Mark
Mark is the one who invites Basha to join their firm after she resigns from the construction firm she and Popoy work in.
In his 30s, Mark stands out not just for his handsome and well-built appearance, but for his charming demeanor that never crosses into boastfulness or self-importance.
He and his long-term girlfriend have broken up, but Mark has the wisdom to see its significance in his life.
The character of Mark will be alternately played by Jef Flores and Jay Gonzaga.
Jef previously had another theatrical performance as the lead role in Tick, tick… BOOM! (2021), while Jay starred in Love Bites season 2.
Additional Cast
The musical will also feature Rica Laguardia and Ada Tayao as Krissy, Johnnie Moran as Chinno, Jon Abella as JP, Paji Arceo and Poppert Bernadas as Kenneth, and Dippy Arceo and Via Antonio as Anj.
One More Chance: The Musical is poised to be a memorable theatrical experience that blends the cherished narrative of the film with the vibrant energy of live performance and the soulful music of Ben&Ben.
Fans of the original movie and theater enthusiasts alike are sure to find something to love in this heartfelt adaptation.
One More Chance: The Musical ticket price and schedule
The musical is scheduled to run from April 12 to June 16, at the PETA Theater Center.
At press time, ticket prices and selling dates are yet to be announced.
Details regarding slots are yet to be announced as well.