Hip hop dancing, gymnastics, and zips are just some of the things one wouldn’t expect to see in a biblical play such as “Joseph the Dreamer,” which has been staged several times already for the past 17 years. But veteran director Freddie Santos will pull it off come September. This version of “Joseph The Dreamer”, which was rewritten for a young audience, promises no intermissions, and would last for less than two hours.
Though compact, this version of “Joseph the Dreamer” has a newer sound and a more MTV feel to it. It also has a roster of a younger set of actors, headed by Franco Laurel and Alvin dela Peña, who will be alternating as Joseph. As true to its theme from the past, the play still talks about relationships with one’s parents, and with God. “More than anything, it is trusting that there is Someone who is looking out for you and as long as you trust, you’ll be able to get somewhere,” says director-playwright Freddie Santos.
 Over the years of its staging, “Joseph the Dreamer,” has harvested more people to its credit. Even young boys who take on kid roles have to be changed every year. And for this year, the show is having its 5th Joseph. The first one was Audie Gemora, then there was a more corporate version with Carlo Orosa, a touring version with Alvin dela Peña, and a 10th anniversary version with Gary Valenciano.
As an accomplished artist, Santos did not only write and direct “Joseph the Dreamer,” but he also played the part of Jacob, the father. “It was my personality that was put into the character. We are deeply correlated by the fact that I do play favorites. I really used to lie a lot, like Jacob. And I wrestle with God all the time,” attests Santos.
As with every well-crafted piece of work, the play obviously has its share of memorable poetic moments. But of all these, Santos considers the handing of the robe to be the ultimate and greatest part. “For me, the robe is the materialization of everything that has happened to Joseph. From it being given by the father, to being taken away by the brothers, then being returned to Joseph in the end.” For Santos, the robe offers the connection towards reconciliation.
Trumpets’ new production of “Joseph the Dreamer” comes alive onstage at SM Megamall Cinema 4 on September 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 at 3 p.m. and September 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 at 7 p.m. For ticket inquiries, you may contact Trumpets at (632) 635-4478 or 636-2842. Ticket prices: PhP350 and PhP250. |
