#TheaterPH - Rhythms of Resilience: Why 9 Works Theatrical’s ‘On Your Feet!’ is the Escape We All Need Right Now
Let’s be honest, our day-to-day lives lately have been a relentless cycle of deadlines, traffic, and digital noise. Every now and then, you just need an escape that doesn’t require booking a flight. That escape arrived in full, vibrant color at the gala night of 9 Works Theatrical’s staging of On Your Feet!.
Going in, you might think, "Do I need to be a die-hard Gloria Estefan fan to appreciate this?" The short answer is absolutely not. You don’t need to know her discography to be completely swept away. This production introduces you to her heart, her struggles, and her triumphs so intimately that by the curtain call, you'll feel like you've known her story your entire life.
The moment the lights went down, the energy in the theater became completely electric. What immediately grounds the emotional beats of the show is the stellar stage design. It is remarkably dynamic, serving as a playground for some of the smoothest transitions I have witnessed on the local stage recently. There are no clunky, awkward pauses to pull you out of the magic; scenes melt effortlessly into one another, keeping the pacing brisk and your eyes glued to the stage.
That visual fluidity sets the perfect canvas for Nunoy's choreography. The movement is sharp, infectious, and deeply rooted in Latin flavor. Every syncopated step and explosive ensemble number feels less like a rehearsed routine and more like a spontaneous outburst of pure joy. Matching that kinetic energy note-for-note is the live band accompaniment. The brass and percussion sections don’t just play the music; they drive the heartbeat of the show, reverberating through the theater and making it physically impossible to keep your feet still.
The casting for this production is nothing short of inspired. Kayla Rivera is an absolute force as Gloria Estefan. She carries the vocal heft and the vulnerability required for the role with a grace that feels entirely natural. Jason Canela, playing Emilio Estefan, possesses an undeniable, magnetic stage presence. When he sings, his voice is incredibly soothing, catching a beautiful, subtle raspiness at the end of his notes that gives his performance an evocative, raw edge.
Pinky Marquez turns in an equally great performance as the grandmother, Consuelo. She infuses the show with a brilliant warmth and sharp comedic timing, serving as the comforting emotional anchor the family dynamic needs.
A massive highlight of the evening is Ayen Laurel as Gloria Fajardo (Gloria’s mother). Known across the industry as theater royalty for her commanding presence and impeccable vocal control, Ayen brings a gripping complexity to the maternal friction onstage. From her historical breakthrough performance as Sita in Rama Hari to acclaimed, classic roles in ATANG – Dulang May Musika, Grease, A Chorus Line, and Once on This Island, she reminds us exactly why she is a master of her craft. Her performance here is nuanced, heartbreaking, and fiercely protective all at once.
Ultimately, On Your Feet! is a beautiful reminder of the power of resilience, family, and music. With its incredibly high production value, premium sound, and stellar casting, you are guaranteed to get your money's worth. If you are looking for a spectacular break from the daily grind that will leave your spirit completely lifted, do yourself a favor and catch this run. You’ll walk in looking for an escape, and you'll walk out dancing.
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