Larry the Musical
Are you Pilipino or love someone who is? Do you wish you knew more of you Pilipino-American History? Did Hamilton (or was it Wicked?) change you? Even if you answered ‘no’ to ALL of these questions you MUST go see Larry the Musical.
12 very talented actors tell the story of Larry Itliong and his life starting back in the Philippines dreaming of coming to America all the way through
the drama’s and trauma’s of his labor organizing alongside his comrades right here in Northern California. The blocking and props for the show are simple but effective. The lyrics and music are catchy and even light and funny (especially if you are familiar with Pilipino culture) leading up to events that are quite dramatic and even traumatic.
I must be a true American base on my lack of knowledge of my own history. Despite growing up in Northern California (Vallejo, Sacramento and then the Bay Area), I was so surprised to hear Itliong’s story take us to Lodi and Stockton and agricultural communities right around us here in the bay area such as Pescadero.
I left the show feeling that we Pilipinos have BEEN HERE for a minute and we have DONE SOME THINGS. I felt proud of our ancestors for what they have done to build the California we presently enjoy and I felt a stronger sense that I belong here.
Larry the Musical: An American Journey premiered at the charming and intimate Brava Theatre in San Francisco. At the time of the writing of this article, this first run is over (March 16-April 14) but you can still donate to the run (Musicals are NOT cheap) and maybe they will extend it.