Following the successful staging of Deaf Filipino artist CJ Reynaldo’s Whatcha Saying? at the Thames International Auditorium in Quezon City, Apothecary Productions brings the acclaimed graphic novel to the stage in a one-act theatrical adaptation running from November 14 to 16 at the LORMA Colleges AVR, Carlatan Campus, San Fernando, La Union. Published by Komiket and a finalist at the 39th National Book Awards, the original comic book uses humor and illustrations to introduce Filipino Sign Language (FSL) and share the everyday experiences of navigating a predominantly hearing world.
The stage adaptation follows CJ, a Deaf freshman student, as he navigates college life and builds friendships with his schoolmates Liam and Sarah. As the three find ways to understand one another, they explore love, friendship, identity, and communication. Warm and funny, the story highlights how meaningful connections can go beyond spoken language and reminds audiences that being heard can begin with the hands.
Written and directed by Heart Romero, founder and artistic director of Apothecary Productions, the production features Juner N. Quiambao as CJ, Nathan Molina and Raymond Aguilar sharing the role of Liam, and Onix Valerio as Sarah. The ensemble includes Aura Payawan, Lucky Charles Historia, and Wayne San Juan. Reynaldo, also known as Caldatelier, is a Deaf freelance artist whose comics and storybooks promote empathy and a deeper understanding of the Deaf community.
The production also reflects Apothecary Productions’ commitment to inclusive and community-rooted theatre. Founded in November 2024, the company is based in Manila and La Union and aims to create opportunities for artists, students, and community members to participate in the performing arts. Its advocacy includes promoting Deaf culture, FSL, and accessibility through its collaboration with Deaf and Terp Corporation.
Whatcha Saying? – A Stage Adaptation runs on November 14, 15, and 16, with performances at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily at the LORMA Colleges AVR, Carlatan Campus, San Fernando, La Union. Regular tickets are priced at ₱500, and walk-ins are welcome.
