What Filipino Catholics Say About Altar Boyz Manila

I knew it was important to get reactions from members of the Catholic faith regarding the musical comedy Altar Boyz since it had elements that could be considered offensive to Catholics; so I invited a Catholic priest and nun, and active Catholic members of their respective churches.

Disclaimer: However, all opinions expressed here does not reflect the views of the whole Catholic Church, nor of their respective parishes or publications, but are the personal views of each person concerned in exercising their right to free expression and speech.

I interviewed Fr. Bogey Cabrera and Sr. Bubbles Bandojo right after watching the preview of Altar Boyz on 03 April 2008 at OnStage Greenbelt, while Ms. Gina Verdolaga, Ms. Rhona Trinidad, Ms. Angeline Lopez and Ms. Theresa Lopez emailed their reactions, and are posted here verbatim.

Fr. Bogey Cabrera, MSC ( Missionaries of the Sacred Heart)
Although he considers some parts to be “blasphemous,” such as the Confession scene and the part where Luke munches on the “Body of Christ,” he concedes that it is a play, and a Western one at that, so the musical comedy can be given some artistic license.

Fr. Bogey Cabrera would probably recommend it for a field trip for Catholic students, but recognizes the possibility that some conservative Catholics might have a “problem” watching it.

Sr. Bubbles Bandojo, RC (Religious of the Cenacle)
Sr. Bubbles Bandojo said that she was “entertained” and did not find Altar Boyz “offensive,” but she did disagree with some points, and found “inaccuracies.”

Sr. Bubbles recommends Altar Boyz for the youth from those in high school to college to young professionals, and when asked what she would say to them before watching it, she immediately exclaimed, “I will not caution them. I will let them watch it. I will not try to condition them, but challenge them to ask questions. I’d rather that they ask questions, confused yet ask.”

Ms. Gina Verdolaga
A Writer for a Catholic Publication
After a long day, I couldn’t have asked for a better tonic than a big dose of Altar Boyz. The musical shines a satirical light on some Christian traditions, but Catholicism is celebrated too. The trick is not to take it personally. Once I got into the flow, the melodies of youthful angst and spiritual praise was a fun ride till the end.

The laugh factor was high, especially for the suggestive pauses and lyrics (Mark, the gay character was the audience favorite). The boys showed off their fine voices but regrettably, there were words I didn’t catch during the fast numbers. The high-octane choreography kept the pace up and running.

From Gregorian chants to boy band music, if it works to altar/alter minds and save souls, then bring it on.

Ms. Rhona Trinidad
Member, PBC Choir, PCJ Parish (Parañaque)
I like their choice of actors. They easily established their rapport with the audience (especially the actor who played the role of Matthew; and also the one who played Mark), but I must also admit that there were times that some of them had lapses in playing their characters.

I like the music and lyrics. They were heart-warming and one could easily relate to each song.

I HATE the sound system. It didn’t give justice to the actors’ performance especially at the beginning when everything the actors said or sang was muffled. It did improve in the middle but there were times when the music overpowered the voices. Makes you think if they do the sound check during the play and not before. Hmmmm….

I like the fact that although the play started with a “Catholic” theme, it didn’t dwell on it. The play tackled values and themes like family, relationships, friendship, trust, faith, temptation and others, which people from all race, color and religion may relate to.

I like the way the play made me feel proud to be a member of our parish’s music ministry. It affirms our thrust of being able to touch people’s lives through the power of music.

I dislike the fact that the play lasts for only one hour and fifteen minutes. I dislike the fact that time flew so fast that before we knew it, the play was over. I wanted to see more!!!!

I like the fact that I left the theater with a feeling of “spiritual high” that made me want to see the play again and to get others to see it also so that they too may experience the same.

Ms. Ma. Angeline Lopez
A 19yo Catholic Student
Theatrical plays are not the usual venture of teenagers like me. But when I heard that the play was titled, “Altar Boyz” I thought that it might be interesting. Indeed, it turned out to be. The boyz performing together had chemistry. They made it seem like they were BBF, you know, best buds forever. My personal favorite however, was Juan (surprisingly not Matthew! Hehe!). He managed to portray his character consistently, espanol all the way. Their choreography was appropriate for the songs, has that “maneuverse” feel to it as it were choreographed by Jason Zamora. I also liked the idea of the soul sensor. As an audience member, it has some sort of psychological effect that really uplifts the spirit. The confession session was also a good idea. It makes you feel that you are able to participate in the play.

Although the play was nice, technically, there are some problems with the sound system. Sometimes the volume changes that you cannot understand what they are saying or singing about. They also have off-key pitches in-between songs. Nevertheless, they are commendable for they did not only sing but they manage to dance and crack jokes as well. Overall, it was a job well done! A play relating to the youth – entertaining and guaranteed to lighten your loads.

Ms. Ma. Theresa Lopez
Member, Parish Music Ministry and a Catholic Mother
At first I was hesitant to watch the show but I’m glad I came, i.e., with my teenage daughter!

I liked the boys’ energy. Some off-keys are minor.

I liked the way they focused on God without getting too heavy and serious, and the way they handled some sensitive issues with humor and wit.

The sound system messed up a bit.

Overall the show was so much fun and engaging, just don’t know if it would appeal to ultra conservative senior citizen crowd coz’ I keep hearing our seatmate asking “what’s so funny?!” while we were having a heart attack laughing. We came with an open mind and went home with nuggets of wisdom.

Would I recommend it? Definitely!

Altar Boyz Manila Details
Playdates: 04-27 April 2008

Venue: OnStage Greenbelt Makati

Time:
8pm on Friday and Saturday
3.30pm on Saturday and Sunday

Ticket Prices:
Gold (reserved seating) Php 550
Silver (free seating) Php 350
Balcony (free seating) Php 250

Altar Boyz 26 April 3.30pm GOLD Tickets To reserve Altar Boyz GOLD tickets for the 26 April Saturday 3.30pm show, please contact Lorna Lopez thru:
(Globe) 0917.9256505
(Sun) 0922.3875729
(email) cranegoddesscorp@gmail.com

Repertory Philippines Contact Details For further inquiries, please call Repertory Philippines at 887.0710 or visit their website

Acknowledgement I would like to say thank you once again to all my guests for taking a chance and accepting my invite to watch Repertory Philippines production of Altar Boyz. A special thank you goes to Sr. Merle Salazar, George Gabriel and Rhona Trinidad for inviting members of the Catholic faith on my behalf.

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