9 Works Theatrical, in partnership with Rockwell, proudly announces the full powerhouse cast and creative team for the highly anticipated Southeast Asian premiere of On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan, running at the Proscenium Theater at Rockwell Center, Makati City from July 10 to August 2, 2026.
Leading the production is Cuban-American actor Jason Canela, who returns to the role of music icon Emilio Estefan. He is joined by alternating leads Molly Langley and Kayla Rivera, who will portray Gloria Estefan in the Manila staging of the Broadway and West End hit musical.
The production celebrates a stellar ensemble of international and Filipino talent, including Ayen Laurel as Gloria Fajardo, Pinky Marquez as Consuelo Garcia, John Joven Uy as Jose Fajardo, Vien King as Young Jose Fajardo, Jani Magadia as Rebecca Fajardo, and Anyah de Guzman as Rebecca in selected performances and Robin. Child actors Reese Iso, Althea Ruedas, Elian Santos, and Manolo Villalba will alternate as Young Gloria and Young Emilio.
Rounding out the cast is a dynamic ensemble led by Lorenz Martinez, Meliza Reyes Uy, Neo Rivera, Antonio Valdez, Altair Alonzo, Roxy Aldiosa, Rica Laguardia, Matthew Barbers, Carmelle Ros, Winchester Lopez, Cheska Quimno, Richardson Yadao, Macel Dofitas-Yadao, Gerhard Krysstopher Logmao, Lord Kristoffer Logmao, Jacqui Jacinto, Gianna Hervas, and Roni Paderes, bringing the energy of Little Havana and the Miami Sound Machine to life.
Directed by Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome and choreography by Nunoy van den Burgh, the production features a book by Academy Award winner Alexander Dinelaris and music inspired by Emilio and Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine. The musical follows the inspiring true story of the Estefans’ rise from humble beginnings in Cuba and Miami to global superstardom, highlighting themes of love, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams.
Jason Canela, who previously portrayed Emilio Estefan in a Miami regional production, returns to the role with a deeper personal connection. Known for his work in The Young and the Restless, The Rookie, Pitch, and Palm Royale, Canela brings emotional maturity and authenticity to the character of the legendary music producer.
Joining him, Molly Langley and Kayla Rivera alternate as Gloria Estefan, both acclaimed performers known for their powerful vocal performances and acclaimed stage careers, forming a compelling onstage partnership that captures the passion and legacy of the Estefans’ journey.
Also part of the creative team are Raul Montesa (assistant director), Mio Infante (scenographer), Toma Cayabyab (vocal supervisor), Gabo Tolentino (lighting designer), Aron Roca (sound designer/engineer), Justin Santiago (video and projection designer), Sheik Completado (technical director), Elliza Aurelio (hair and makeup designer), and Charles Villaruz (photographer).
The production is headed by 9 Works Theatrical managing director and executive producer Santi Santamaria, alongside Anna Santamaria, Charyl De Guzman, Jonjon Martin, Loreta Arroyo, GM Hernandez III, Mariella Laurel, Vinz Cantillo, and Pachot Festejo.
On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan runs on weekends from July 10 to August 2, 2026, with performances at 8:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays and 3:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays at the Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Center, Makati City. Tickets are available via TicketWorld and Power Plant Mall Cinema.
The production is presented by 9 Works Theatrical in partnership with Rockwell, with MAC Cosmetics as official makeup partner, and special thanks to Pitchworks Inc., Power Mac Center, PilotTV, and The People Diary PH by Myra Ho. It is presented through special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide.
