BWW Reviews: DISNEY'S TARZAN

Manila, Philippines, June 20, 2013--Most people think that "Tarzan" is a love story between Jane Porter, a young artist, and Tarzan, a jungle man. But if one would look closely into the story, "Tarzan," the Broadway musical, directed by Chari Arespacochaga, is really about love that transcends into another world.

Until Saturday, June 29, Viva Atlantis Theatricals presents "Disney's Tarzan," based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel "Tarzan of the Apes" and the 1999 smash hit animated movie titled "Tarzan." The musical stars Broadway actor Dan Domenech as the orphaned infant, who grows up under the care of a female gorilla Kala, played by theater veteran Ima Castro.

Calvin Millado, another stage veteran, breathes life into Kerchak, Kala's husband. Kerchak disapproves of a human child to be part of their ape family. However, Kala remains strong, and hopes that one day Kerchak will finally accept Tarzan.

Mother-Son Bond

This musical could have been a perfect Mother's Day presentation because it tackles Kala's love for her adopted son. Their physical differences are never an issue. Kala is a loving, encouraging mother to Tarzan.

When Kerchak exiles Tarzan, Kala remains a mother to him, and follows after him. She stands by him during those trying moments like any mother would do to her child.

"Tarzan" tells about love that knows nothing about discrimination. The scene where Kala comforts the young Tarzan (Warren Saga, Carlos Dala) is truly moving. Kala motions Tarzan to put his hand on his chest and listen to his own heartbeat; then she takes his hand and places it on her chest to make him feel her heart beating, too.

Stellar Performances

Broadway-trained Domenech shines through in all of his scenes in the musical. He sings Phil Collins' songs in ravishing, powerful tenor. Despite the demands of his character--the swinging on ropes and seemingly endless jumping--he displays a commanding presence onstage with his brand of musicality and charismatic stage presence.

Go as Jane has so much passion. Her second professional theater venture is a testament that she has a knack for musical theater. Her voice seamlessly blends with Domenech's. Their duets, "Strangers Like Me," "For the First Time," and "Two Worlds," mirror their strong rapport onstage.

Castro, on the other hand, is indeed an artist of world-class caliber. She is versatile but vulnerable at the same time. Whatever role she takes on, she slays it with much honesty. Even though she is not a mother, yet, her Kala is able to connect with her audience. Her duets, "Everything that I Am," and "You'll Be In My Heart" with Domenech are potential "last song syndrome."

Millado's Kerchak is equally dominating onstage. His singing reflects authority.

Jeffrey Hidalgos's Terk, Tarzan's ape best friend, is funny and engaging sans the male elephant Tantor from the animated film version.

Creative Dream Team

Despite the obvious choice of not replicating the various production values of the original Broadway production in 2006, this Asian premiere of "Disney's Tarzan" still manages to enthral its audiences--young and old--with Lex Marcos' breathtaking, but stylized, scenic design.

Dong Calingacion's lighting design is not intrusive; it complements Marcos' production design.

We first could not comprehend why the apes were bodypainted, and why Tarzan was wearing a bahag, a G-string worn by male Igorots, as opposed to wearing a loincloth of an animal's hide as described by Burroughs. However, costume designer Eric Pineda justifies his creations by adding a local touch on the characters' costumes, especially on Domenech's.

Ceejay Javier's musical direction and Bobbit Jacinto's sound design blend well.

However, Cecile Martinez's choreography, which lacks a little bit of spunk, is the show's weakest link. Martinez's dance and movement concepts maybe brilliant on paper, but Domenech is the only cast member who is consistent with the ape-like movements from beginning till the end.

It is a good thing that Tarzan and Jane's swinging on ropes--directed by Broadway's Flying By Foy--is perfect and sweet.

Arespacochaga masterfully stages the musical, which is a treat for the whole family.

Other cast members include Eugene Villaluz as Professor Porter, Arnel Carrion as Clayton, JM Urquico and JC Urquico as the Young Terk, Ojie Ramos, Jill Pena, Johann Dela Fuenta, Mako Alonso, J. Martin Castro, Tristan Rae Cheng, Reg Claravall, Jim Ferrer, Nel Gomez, Lilette Lorenzana, Kim Molina, Gem Quintos, and Chris Yu.

Disney's "Tarzan" runs at Meralco Theater until Saturday, June 29. For tickets, visit ticketworld.com.ph.

Photo by Jaime Unson

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