Director Jeremy Domingo Talks About the Upcoming Jose Mari Chan Musical

Christmas in the Philippines wouldn't be the same without Jose Mari Chan’s voice filling the air. We're all familiar with "Christmas in Our Hearts," "A Perfect Christmas," "Little Christmas Tree," and the list just goes on and on. These songs have become the hallmark of the holiday season for millions. But this year, Chan’s iconic music is coming to life in a different way: on stage.

Directed by seasoned theater director Jeremy Domingo, Going Home to Christmas is an original musical that transforms Chan's cherished Christmas melodies into a theatrical experience, weaving a narrative that celebrates both the music and spirit of the season. It is produced by Repertory Philippines and runs from November 29 to December 15 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati.

In an interview with Esquire Philippines, Domingo shared insights into the creative vision behind this theatrical adaptation, emphasizing the enduring appeal of Chan's melodies.

ALSO READ: REP's Jose Mari Chan Musical Announces Full Cast

Esquire Philippines: What is the vision for Going Home to Christmas – A Jose Mari Chan Musical?

Domingo: Our guiding light for Going Home to Christmas has been Mr. Jose Mari Chan himself. We are frequently asked if he will appear in the show itself, or will it be a biography.

The answer is neither, but his presence will be heard and felt in every musical number, in every lyric, and through every character in the play.

His music, which the greater majority of us in the production grew up with, is truly iconic and an institution of Philippine entertainment.

We are experiencing his music with more intimacy and immediacy, which we hope audiences will share when they see our show. Our vision is to be able to communicate and adapt Mr. Chan's brilliance into theatrical form for the first time.

What, for you, makes Jose Mari Chan's Christmas songs timeless?

Mr. Chan's music has been a cultural touchstone for 55 years now, and through the Philippine diaspora (and the Internet) has reached all parts of this globe.

I believe his music reaches the heart and soul of Filipinos, more than any singer-songwriter-composer in history. His melodies are beautifully structured, catchy, and memorable, and the warmth of his vocals brings comfort and familiarity, like reuniting with an old friend or attending a family reunion. Without the intrigue!

People carry a slice of home whenever they listen to Jose Mari Chan; his music resonates with such sincerity, and the fact he is so revered all across the industry and has been covered by dozens of other artists is a testament to his longevity and timelessness.

Why should people watch Going Home to Christmas?

Audiences are in for a unique experience with Going Home to Christmas. Fans of Mr. Chan's music will get to experience their favorite songs brought to life and interpreted in a unique way, and hopefully discover and appreciate the vast world of theater.

We also hope viewers will gain renewed appreciation for Mr. Chan's work, not only for the craftsmanship of his compositions but for his values, passion, poetry, and universality through the lens of musical theater.

Joining Jeremy Domingo in the creative team are Ejay Yatco as musical director; and Luna Griño-Inocian, Robbie Guevara, and Joel Trinidad as writers.

The production is supported by Franco Ramos as choreographer, Ohm David as set designer, Hershee Tantiado as costume designer, GA Fallarme as projection designer, Meliton Roxas Jr. as lights designer, and Aji Manalo as sound designer. The property designer is Julia Pacificador, while the production’s dramaturg is Davidson Oliveros. The technical director is D Cortezano, with Patricia Gregorio serving as production manager, Rafa Lubigan as stage manager, and Rio Tanchuling as assistant stage manager.

Going Home to Christmas showcases a talented cast led by respected theater actors Carla Guevara-Laforteza as Pat, Lorenz Martinez as Arnie, Noel Rayos as Richard, Neomi Gonzales as Josie, Floyd Tena as JR, Mayen Bustamante-Cadd as Em, Neo Rivera as JD, Justine Narciso as Raya, and Carla Martinez as Lola. Joining them are Alfritz, Roxy Aldiosa, Allan Dale, Johann Enriquez, Naths Everett, Juancho Gabriel, Sean Inocencio, Rafael Jimenez, Gary Junsay, Krystal Kane, Davy Narciso, Sheena Lee, Pappel, Maron Rozelle, Basti Santos, Julia Serad, and Zid Yarcia. Mika Espinosa and Onyl Torres complete the cast as swings

Going Home to Christmas – A Jose Mari Chan Musical runs from November 29 to December 15 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati. Ticket prices start at P1,545 through Ticketworld.