Last year, they fascinated us with their endearing theatrical Magpasikat production number that featured the unlikely romance of a lovelorn cockroach and a conceited caterpillar.
It unexpectedly had its sequel for the staging of the annual celebration this year as Karylle and Jhong Hilario coincidentally got paired up once again. However, the narrative was entirely different this time as it zeroed on the story of their characters’ offspring named Ipad, a hybrid of cockroach and caterpillar portrayed by Jhong, who had to confront the issue regarding his real identity.
The show commenced by flashing a montage of the highlights of their presentation in 2017, wherein it was also revealed that Ipis was murdered by a human who freaked out upon seeing him crawling on the floor and mercilessly stepped on him.
Apart from mourning for his father’s untimely death, his personal problems added weight to the sadness Ipad carried in his heart. He was not only confused about where to categorize himself as an insect, which was intensified by the pressure brought by his higad cousins (played by GirlTrend Jessica Marasigan and “Ate Girl” Jackie Gonzaga) and his ipis friends (played by Hashtag dudes Jimboy Martin and Rayt Carreon), he was perplexed as well with his sexuality.
As he grew more disconcerted on how others, especially his mom, would react once he divulged his secret, his friend Lamoka, portrayed by Chienna Filomeno, just arrived right in time to give him the comfort, moral support, and push he truly needed in finally coming out in the open.
Thus, when his childhood friend and longtime apple-of-the-eye Kuto Martin (Ronnie Alonte) approached and challenged him for a one-on-one basketball duel, he didn’t hesitate to confess his romantic feelings for him that he kept to himself since their younger years. Unfortunately, Kuto refused to accept it by saying, “Hindi tayo talo!”, and disclosing that he already has a girlfriend.
Certainly, it shattered Ipad’s heart into pieces, which made him reminisce all the good times their family spent together when he was still a kid and summon his demised dad who he thought would truly understand him. Unbeknownst to him, his mom overheard his lamentations and noticed how downcast he was. She consoled and assured him that she would love and support him regardless of his gender preference.
Just when everything was already fine, the notorious Alakdan (or scorpion) invaded their quiet habitat to dare Kuto. Thankfully, Ipad was there to help and triumphantly defeated the enemy.
The colorful and fantastic spectacle concluded with a magnificent song and number from the whole ensemble, with Ipad introducing himself the Miss Q & A style while wearing a sparkling and colorful number and tall crown, and the rainbow-colored Pride flags rolled down simultaneously.
Team Jhong and Karylle’s awe-inspiring and note-worthy performance this year is indeed a feast to the eyes and our imaginations, for they are able to showcase various kinds of love by incorporating them to a stirring fictional narrative staged in a marvelous backdrop. This also enabled them to display their versatility as artists through their impressive acting, singing, and dancing stints, and even their infallible sense of humor.
Furthermore, Karylle wasn't only able to expose her operatic voice, but her flair as a composer as well. Unknown to many, majority of the songs they used in the musicale were originally written by her with the unwavering assistance of her husband, Spongecola frontman Yael Yuzon, who was present at the studio to show his full support for her and the rest of the crew.
Besides, it inculcated a significant and timely message to the spectators about celebrating diversity by respecting one another at all times. They were also able to invigorate their staunch support to the LGBTQ community’s fight for equality and inclusion, in which their friend and co-host Vice Ganda is one of the forerunners.
LOOK: Team Jhong and Karylle highlights acceptance in grand higad-ipis Magpasikat 2018 musicale
Is Team Jhong and Karylle going to be this year’s Magpasikat champion? Let’s see on the much-awaited announcement of winners on It’s Showtime’s October 20 episode.
If you are in the Philippines, watch the FULL episode on www.iwantv.com.ph
If you are outside the Philippines, watch the FULL episode on www.tfc.tv