JOANNA Ampil returns to the Philippine stage in Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group’s production of Waitress. The local production of the hit-Broadway musical will be staged in November. It tells the story of Jenna who finds comfort from disillusionment through baking.
Ampil has performed on London’s West End in musicals such as Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Avenue Q, to name a few, and continues to perform as Grizabella in the World Tour of Cats.
Most recently she won the URIAN award for Best Actress for her work in the film musical Larawan.
“I heard that people were dying to play this part in Manila. After doing some research on the role, I realized that this woman is ultimately a survivor and manages to cope with whatever life throws her way. I suppose I can somehow relate to that. It will be an exciting challenge,” she was quoted as saying in a press release.
“But the idea of being directed by Bobby [Garcia] once again truly excites me. I had a wonderful experience working with him on The Bridges of Madison County and this new show came as a wonderful gift and surprise.”
The musical’s director, Bobby Garcia, was quoted as saying, “I always wanted Joanna to play Jenna, but I wasn’t sure that we would be able to get her as she is still touring the world in Cats. But once again, the universe conspired to give us what we wanted and we were able to work out getting her to Manila in time for rehearsals. Joanna is one of the finest musical theater performers we have in the country. And it is always a joy to come into rehearsals and work with her on creating a character and telling a story. I suspect she will be, once again, be unforgettable.”
Also in the cast of Waitress are Bituin Escalante and Maronne Cruz. Waitress continues to play to sold out audiences on Broadway.
Waitress opens on Nov. 9 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati. For tickets, contact TicketWorld at (632) 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.

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