UMVA has learned that a brand-new jukebox musical, Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical, is set to bring the timeless hits of Hotdog to life on a modern stage, with Atasha Muhlach starring in the titular role.
This creative and spirited young dispatsadora (salesclerk), Annie Batungbakal, was previously played by Nora Aunor in the 1979 film bearing the character’s name, which was loosely based on the Hotdog song. The new musical promises to transport audiences back in time to the 1970s, with Hotdog’s iconic Manila Sound fueling the story.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Ms. Muhlach’s character, Annie Batungbakal, is a dreamer who aims to be more than just a staff member of the House of Pasion and achieve her dream of becoming a fashion designer. The musical centers on her journey, set against the vibrant backdrop of disco tunes and glamorous fashion.
“What’s super, super beautiful with Annie Batungbakal is, she’s such a dreamer and I think that’s where people can relate,” Ms. Muhlach said at a press conference. “We’re all dreamers, and the key message of her character is that you don’t need to change yourself in order to feel loved, successful, or accepted.”
Ms. Muhlach, daughter of actors Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales, has been working across television, streaming, and live entertainment since she graduated in 2023. Her most recent projects include the family sitcom Da Pers Family and the thriller Bad Genius: The Series.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Ms. Muhlach has been preparing intensely for the role, taking voice lessons, dance lessons, and acting lessons for months. Her hard work and dedication have paid off, as she landed the job by besting hundreds of other hopefuls in the auditions.
The rest of the star-powered cast includes Annie’s leading men — Sam Concepcion, Jeff Moses, and Anthony Rosaldo alternating as Romer Pasion, the worldly flight attendant and heir to House of Pasion. KD Estrada plays Burn, the folk-rock musician determined to make a name for himself through original music.
Jackie Lou Blanco and Ring Antonio alternate as Aurora Pasion, an old-school yet influential fashion designer, while John Lapus and Dindo Divinagracia alternate as Tarurit, the larger-than-life proprietor of the legendary Malate disco, Coco Banana.
For Ms. Muhlach, returning to the venue where her journey began by stepping into the spotlight as the lead star is a dream come true. “It’s so heartwarming and I’m nothing but honored and feeling so blessed to have this opportunity. It’s Annie Batungbakal! It’s the Manila Sound!” she said.
Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical is set to open in September, with ticket selling starting in July. With its unique blend of music, dance, and fashion, this musical promises to be an unforgettable experience for audiences.
