Filipino Australian actors star in Joseph production

SYDNEY – Three Filipino-Australian actors were tapped to play roles in the production of Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Chatswood Musical Society (CMS) presents this huge and colourful production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s first and most popular family-friendly musical. Directed by Matt Cater with musical direction by Hayden Barltrop and Laura-Beth Wood’s choreography, CMS’ Joseph is a spectacular, funny and heart-warming musical treat.

Featuring a cast composed of more than 20 children’s ensemble and a full orchestra, Joseph features Filo talents Ani Lazung who plays the role of Potiphar; Alex Acosta, Naphtali; and Edwin Estanislao, Judah.

Ani is a lawyer by profession. He enrolled himself in a music course called Tone Deaf Clinic so he could manage a tune for his son Benjamin, to whom his wife would regularly sing songs in the car or at home. After unearthing his talent, Ani took on additional music lessons, joined a singing group called Fabulous Jazz Babies, and auditioned for a part in the ensemble but landed the plum role of Potiphar.

Alex dabbled early in performing, having learned to play the piano at 10, and the violin at 14. His interest is wide-ranging and diverse, including acting, singing, dancing, martial arts, and fitness. Alex has also acted in film, did the role of Simon the Zealot for the World Youth Day 2008 production which was aired on TV, and performed in other musicals by CMS.

Edwin, on the other hand, displays his vocal chops as he sings his first solo in a CMS production, a rendition of the Benjamin Calypso song. He trained vocally with Anthony Winter, Jassen Rose, and Steven Kreamer, and took dance classes with the Sydney Dance Company. Edwin has lent his talent for musicals such as JC Superstar, Miss Saigon, High School Musical 2, Back to the 80’s, RENT, Dusty, among other productions.

Joseph will run from 10 to 18 May at the Zenith Theatre, Cnr McIntosh and Railway Streets, Chatswood. Shows from Wednesday to Saturday will have 7.30pm showings. In addition, Saturday will have a 2pm matinee and Sunday will have a 4pm matinee. Tickets cost $38 for adults, $33 for concession and 4+ groups, and $28 for children.

For bookings, contact Zenith Theatre on (02) 9777 7547 or online at www.chatswoodmusicals.org.