DREAM - Playbill

Aloha

As a young woman growing up in Hawai‘i, I had difficulty with identifying what it meant to be Filipino. It wasn’t until I found myself in the role of “Kim” in Miss Saigon, and surrounded by very talented, very proud Filipinos in my cast, that I began to realize the value of my ethnicity. During my stint in Germany, our fellow Saigoners did a show called “Habi,” which means weave in Filipino. The story brought the audience on a journey through Filipino history, dating back to the time of the Igorots. After that presentation, I was completely enlightened and I was transformed into a woman of knowing who I was and where I came from.

This is why I feel that it is so important to share Marissa’s story with the masses. Her thoughts and feelings portrayed in DREAM, will resonate with every person in attendance. We all have asked that same question, “Who am I and where do I fit in?” It is our hope that this body of work inspires everyone to embark on their own personal journey to DREAM big and find their answers.

A famous quote by Maya Angelou states, “You can’t really know where you’re going, until you know where you’ve been.” Our cast does exactly that. They have worked daily for several weeks to paint a picture of how Filipinos made their way into American History. Each scene and song will pull at your heart strings, and transport you to pivotal moments in time that highlights the strength and perseverance of the Filipino spirit and heart!

To our Mr. Producer and Writer – AJ Halagao – thank you for this opportunity and belief in me. It gives me great pleasure to reflect your courageous story onto the stage. All I have to say is, “Three time’s a charm!” To our production team – Sequoia Carr Brown, Miguel Cadoy III, Marcelo Pacleb, Nick La‘a, Anthony Fedorov, Jennifer Paz, Iris Gil, Hope Corpuz and Ken Vigilia – We could not have done this without you. To every member of our cast, we are so proud of you. You shine in your own unique way and your light has brought LIFE to DREAM. To our band and technical crew, mahalo nui loa! To our dear Mama Bares – Joan, Deedee, Jen, and Ai – and to Gio and Jon, what a blessing it is to have you grace us with your star presence! To my niece Taliya Wood – congratulations on your debut, darling!

We are more than a Dream Team. We are a DREAM family!

On behalf of the cast and crew, we celebrate and congratulate Marissa and her fellow student collaborators for the change they are making in history.

I thank my family and friends for all your endless love and support. Mahal kita. Love you Mama! Glory to God!

Enjoy the show! Mabuhay!

With aloha, Kristian Lei Director

KRISTIAN LEI

“CARMELA” / “KRISTIAN”

Hawai‘i-International Singer-songwriter, Producer, Director, Writer, Entrepreneur - Kristian Lei - has starred in many roles such as “ im” from Miss Saigon, Germany, “Princess Nala and Rafiki” in Disney’s Festival of the Lion King-Hong Kong, “Kei Kimura” of Allegiance, and TiMoune in Philippine Tour of Once on This Island. Kristian released 2 full-length albums entitled “Take My Hand” and “On a Personal Note.” She is also the Founder of Non-Profit Organization Honolulu Broadway Babies and JETH School of Continuing Education and Performing Arts, which are dedicated to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She founded it to honor her younger brother Joshua Earl T. Hegwood, who lives with Cerebral Palsy.

When not performing, Kristian Lei is a Feature Film/TV and Professional Vocal Coach. She is also known for her 29 years of Producing and Directing Concerts, Corporate and Special Events Statewide. In 2017, she was honored as one of FOX KHON 2’s top 5 Influential Filipinos in Hawai‘i.

Lei is the Founder of Kristian Lei Enterprises, LLC and Proud Vocal Mama Performance Method. Kristian is also the Beauty, Fashion, and Fitness Columnist for Hawai‘i’s FilAm Courier. She loves God, her family and service.

JOAN ALMEDILLA

“GRACIELA” / “JESSICA”

Joan Almedilla is thrilled to be part of DREAM, a musical benefit. Thank you, Kristian, AJ, Ken and DREAM family. Joan is a Broadway Musical performer from Cebu in the Philippines. After appearing on Amateur Night at The Apollo in Harlem, New York, hosted by Steve Harvey, Joan was cast in the leading role of Kim in Miss Saigon. She went on to play over 600 performances on Broadway by age 24. Joan is the first Asian to play the role of Fantine on the national tour of Les Miserables. She also played Lady Thiang on the first national tour of The King and I. Her other Broadway, national tour & regional credits include: Jesus Christ Superstar (Mary cover), Mamma Mia (Donna), Assassins (Sara Jane Moore), Chess (played both Florence and Svetlana), Krunk Fu Battle Battle (Jean), Criers For Hire (Aurora aka Baby). She has also performed at Carnegie Hall, Disney Concert Hall and The Apollo Theater. Film & TV includes: Pam & Tommy on Hulu (2022), Griselda on Netflix (2023), Bupkis on Peacock TV (2023), Commencement (movie on Prime Video), Nurses’ Station, web series (just recently launched new episodes on YouTube), Shatter Belt Series (TBD), Next Of Kin (TBD). This show is dedicated to my ancestors especially the brave women warriors. Love to God and my boys! www.joanalmedilla.com

DEEDEE MAGNO HALL “ISABELLA”

DREAMS do come true, thanks be to God! Deedee is so thankful for the opportunity to perform in beautiful Hawai‘i in this musical benefit, based on Marissa Halagao’s true story! Deedee is so excited to share the historic Hawai‘i Theatre stage with her Mama Bares Ohana and new friends, with huge Mahalo to AJ, Kristian, Ken and entire DREAM TEAM! Her more recent credits include the voice of “Pearl” on Cartoon Network’s, Steven Universe as well as voices on Netflix’s Trese & Dogs In Space & various video games. Some memorable musical theater credits include “Kim” in Miss Saigon (Broadway, 2nd US National & Asian Tours), “Nessarose” in Wicked (1st US National Tour & San Francisco Co.), “Diana” in Next To Normal (EWP), If/Then (Broadway & US National Tour) & “Donna” in Mamma Mia (WTP Guam), often playing opposite or alongside her loving husband & “local boy”, Cliffton Hall. Some fun TV & Film credits include an original cast member of the Disney Channel’s “All New Mickey Mouse Club”, Goliath, Greys Anatomy, Third Watch, Dellaventura, Rear Window, Face & Sister Act 2. Deedee has recorded 4 albums with Hollywood Record’s pop group, “The Party”, who recently performed their first concert together in over 30 years! She is co-founder of the mommy singing group, “Mama Bares”, and you can find their parody music videos on the YouTube! She is a joyful wife & proud mommy of 2 wonderful boys, Kaeden (17) & Brycen (11). Deedee is grateful to God for every blessing, family, friends & the gift to do what she loves.

All glory to God! Instagram: @deedeemagnohallofficial Twitter: @DeedeeMagnoHall & @Mama_Bares

JENNIFER PAZ “PRISCILLA” / “NATALIA”

Jennifer is an award-winning actor, writer, producer and proud Fil-Am. Born in Manila and raised in the Seattle area, she attended the University of Washington. Favorite theatrical credits: “Miss Saigon” (1st National Broadway Tour), David Henry Hwang’s “Flower Drum Song” (LA’s Mark Taper Forum), “Les Miserables”(Broadway). Regional and international: Singapore Repertory Theatre, East West Players, Seattle areas 5th Avenue Theatre & Village Theatre, St. Paul’s Ordway Center, North Carolina Theatre, Sacramento Music Circus, Boston area’s North Shore Music Theatre. Also known as the voice of Lapis Lazuli on “Steven Universe.” As a producer, Jennifer is passionate about social justice, pro-female, pro-BIPOC stories, mental health advocacy for our youth and has creatively developed music videos for non-profits, national campaigns, and education initiatives, notably with Mona Foundation, dedicated to providing access to girl’s education around the globe. As a screenwriter, she won the Outstanding Screenplays TV Pilot Competition 2021 for her original comedy pilot “Proud Marys,” as a top selection from judge Susan Soon He Stanton (Emmy Award-winning, WGA and Peabody Award-winning writer/producer on HBO’s “Succession”). Jennifer is currently a 2022 mentee with showrunner-producer Brian Yorkey (“Next to Normal,”Netflix “13 Reasons Why,”) with UNLOCK HER POTENTIAL mentorship program. She is most proud of her role as mama to son Julian with husband Anthony Fedorov. Jen is beyond thrilled to be performing with her Mama Bares sisters, and the cast and crew for “Dream: A Musical Benefit!” Mahalo and Salamat to the Halagao Family and all involved for this inspirational endeavor!

AI GOEKU CHEUNG

“LANI” / “MS. OTANI”

Ai is beyond excited to reunite with her fellow Mama Bares on stage in beautiful Honolulu and is thrilled to join such a talented ensemble for this DREAM production in paradise. Ai seamlessly transitioned from a professional musical theater career into the busy world of television/ film production and the commercial casting biz. She briefly took some time off to embrace the greatest role of her life as a full-time mom and has since opened her own small business which provides after-school enrichment classes in the arts for children in her community. Ai feels extraordinarily lucky that she is able to still perform with the Mama Bares while fulfilling her love of music AND being a mama! She most recently appeared on stage at the 2018 Academy Awards Ceremony as a singer in the “This is Me” performance from The Greatest Showman with Keala Settle. Her previous credits include multiple productions of Miss Saigon, including: the Broadway company (Yvette and Ellen U/S), the 2nd National Tour (Ellen U/S), and the original Toronto company. Ai has also been honored to join East West Players in Los Angeles for several productions, including: Beijing Spring, Follies, and Little Shop of Horrors. Mahalo, Kristian and AJ, for welcoming me into your amazing community and to my husband, David, my not-so-little ones, Dylan (14) and Mia (12), and my fur babies, Felix (8) and Emmett (8) for being my everything!

TALIYA WOOD “MARISSA”

Taliya Wood was born and raised in Ka - ne‘ohe, Hawai‘i. She attends the University of Hawai‘i at Ma - noa in hopes of getting a medical technology degree, while pursuing her music career. Taliya has been performing her whole life. In her early ages, she was part of Honolulu Broadway Babies and has continued by gigging and writing her own music. “I hope to release some original music very soon,” she shares. Taliya sends a big thank you to her mom, nana, papa, stepdad Mike, Dad, Isaiah, Tristen, aunty Kristian, family for their continual support, and God. She says, “Without them I would not be where I am or who I am. They mean so much and have done so much for me. They keep me going and I am blessed to have them in my corner, always”.

JON ALMOSARA “ANTONIO”

Jon Almosara is making his return to the stage after a long absence, and is thrilled that he gets to do so with his good friend Kristian Lei! Jon has appeared in “Miss Saigon” at Army Community Theatre and “Godspell” at Chaminade University, along with other productions. Jon is currently a pastor at Brethren of Christ International, where he is one of the praise and worship singers, and also is the supervisor of American Job Center, WorkHawaii Division with the Department of Community Services. When he’s not onstage or at work, he loves to be with his lovely wife, Rochelle, and their three boys, Jace, Reece and Jonah.

GIOVANNI ORTEGA “ROBERTO”

Giovanni Ortega is a multidisciplinary artist, educator, and cultural organizer who believes in creating an accepting and inclusive relationship with artists and international communities. In 2016, Ortega started The Body Series at the Haque Centre of Acting and Creativity in Singapore which have also been workshopped at the National Theatre of Parramatta (Sydney) and East West Players (Los Angeles). As a performer, he’s had the opportunity to perform in Dogeaters (Center Theatre Group), Imelda, The Musical (East West Players), The Romance of Magno Rubio (Ford Theater) as well as collaborating with Kristian Lei in the past few years. Giovanni was also commissioned in Los Angeles to write and perform Allos, The Story of Carlos Bulosan (East West Players). The play has toured in Hawai‘i, Singapore, Uganda, Austria and Chicago. Commissioned works for Poetry Festival Singapore includes: Benches, Palindromes, Belonging, Atlas and Nomads. He also starred in the film Zenaida which recently premiered at the American Film Institute (AFI) Film Festival. Giovanni is currently the Artistic Director for FilAm Arts Teatro and is completely honoured to return and share space with Ohana in O‘ahu. Mahalo nui loa at Maraming salamat po.

www.filamartsla.org/teatro www.giovanniortega.com

Production Leads

ANTHONY FEDOROV

MUSIC COMPOSER

Anthony Fedorov is a singer-songwriter, producer, activist, and music educator. Born in Yalta, Crimea (former USSR), Anthony immigrated to the United States. Due to a birth defect in his windpipe, he underwent a tracheotomy (breathing through a tube from 4 months old to age 4), from which a scar is now visible. Doctors predicted he would never be able to speak. He went on to compete on “American Idol” Season Four, finishing as 4th place Finalist. Favorite theatrical credits: For the Record’s “Love Actually, LIVE” (The Wallis), “The Fantasticks” (off-Broadway), “RENT” revival (dir. Michael Grief, New World Stages), “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” (5th Avenue Theatre, Ordway Center, Broadway Asia, Tokyo). Songwriter placements: Hulu’s “Future Man,” The Ellen Degeneres Wildlife Fund, “Tet’Emcombo” (award-winning short “The German King,” ) co-written with producing partner and Latin Grammy® Award Winner Jeeve Ducornet (Todrick Hall, Bruno Mars, Nicole Scherzinger). Anthony and Ducornet recently collabed with dir. Colin Tilly and Stafford Agency (team behind the Virgin America Safety Video - 12.2M views, $75M earned media) on the SoCal Gas Safety campaign (1.5M Youtube views since its release August 2022). He is currently developing an original musical “Hashtag America” with book by Nik Walker (Broadway’s “Hamilton,” “Ain’t Too Proud”), co-lyricist Kyle Carter (Disney’s “The Lion King,” “In the Heights”), dramaturgy by David Armstrong (Artistic Director Emeritus The 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle). Currently signed with Reel Muzik Werks (Nashville, TN). Mahalo and spasibo for this incredible opportunity to be a part of Dream: A Musical Benefit!

SEQUOIA CARR-BROWN CHOREOGRAPHER

Sequoia Carr-Brown is an international mixed media performance artist and owner of an award-winning company, StRaNgE FrUiT XPrEsS. Her community based company creates immersive, mixed media productions, installations, and workshops. Sequoia is certified in the DanceAbility Method by world renowned educator/choreographer, Alito Alessi. She is also a co-founder of Piko Dance Arts. Recently, Sequoia has engaged in collaborative projects with Kristian Lei Enterprises and Peter Rockford Espiritu’s Tau Dance Company performing for the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma. She co-sponsored Sharon Thomas Yarbrough’s Sisters Empowering Hawai‘i, “Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe” luncheon, and Kathyrn Waddell Takara’s “Seasons” Poetry Festival. She has presented installations for NEA and MAP Fund granted work, international dance festivals in France and Korea, Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design, Hawai‘i State Museum, Hawai‘i State Public Library System’s, Hawai‘i Book and Music Festival, Black History in Hawai‘i Series, and O‘ahu Fringe Festivals, and co-lead entertainment for Hawai‘i’s first Annual Veteran’s Summit with Kristian Lei. Formerly, Sequoia was a company dancer with Convergence Dance Theatre, Derek Daniels Productions, Ginko Marischino, IONA Contemporary Dance Theatre, Jhalak Dance, Ramm Dance Company, Tau Dance Theater, and Wai Company. She was also Creative Dance Director for Kristian Lei’s Honolulu Broadway Babies. J.E.T.H. Continuing Education and Performing Arts project. Currently, she is collaborating in project that explores Afro and Asian cultural connectivity TBA. She is also in production for an upcoming independent film TBA. This is Sequoia’s third production with AJ. She gives her gratitude, appreciation, and love to her ohana, cast, crew, friends and mentors.

MIGUEL CADOY III

MUSIC DIRECTOR

Miguel Cadoy III is the director of the Academies of Farrington high school and artistic director of Farrington Performing Arts Center. He received his Masters in Music Education from the University of Hawai‘i Ma - noa, and is a guest lecturer this semester. He can be seen performing around the island and the world. He is best known for his role as Hula Hoop the Octopus in Honu By The Sea, the Musical, performing internationally. He was last seen as in I’m a Bright Kid Foundation’s productions of Songs For A New World and Children of Eden. Past credits include Judas (swing) in Jesus Christ Superstar (DHT), Frankie Suzuki in the Hawai‘i premiere of Allegiance (MVT), Tinman in The Wiz (IABK), Sebastian in The Little Mermaid (DHT), Waiter in First Date (Chaminade), Hairspray (PTW), Les Miserables (PTW), Godspell (MVT), Titanic (DHT), and The Phantom of the Opera (PTW). He has also music/vocal directed throughout the island including local productions of The Last Five Years (StageFish), The King & I (PTW), Hairspray (PTW), and In the Heights (LCC).

IRIS GIL

COSTUME DESIGNER

Born in Olongapo City, Philippines, and moved to California at the age of 15. Recipient of the Philippines Science High Scholarship. Studied Business Administration and Fashion Design in Los Angeles, California and Paris, France.

Worked as a computer buyer, human resource admin, accounting auditor, design assistant in Paris and now as a local cultural historian in Hawai‘i. Owner of Iris Gil Designs, costume designer for Filipino styles, Hawai‘i attires for hula performers and pageant Gown. Owner and Director of Habi at Baro Collection - presentation of Philippine cultural items.

Locally in Hawai‘i, chaired events such as Kayamanan ng Lahi presentation in the Merrie Monarch, Sakada Celebrations, Santa Cruzan and other Community Barrio Fiesta and in UH Hilo. Currently commissioned by the Iolani Palace to recreate royal gowns for a permanent exhibit in the Palace.

Scene 1 – Reflection

Marissa is disappointed to learn that Filipinos are not included in an Asian History course. As she does not see herself in the curriculum, she feels invisible and questions her identity.

Song: “Reflection” ................................ Performed by Taliya Wood

Written by Matthew Wilder and David Zippel

Scene 2 – Collaboration

Marissa reaches out to students across Hawai‘i to develop a course that can be taught at schools statewide. Together, they set out on a dream of finally telling their story.

Song: “Come Alive”

Performed by Taliya Wood, Sammy Houghtailing, Lucia-Blu Fowler, Monica Velasco and Ensemble

Written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul

Scene 3 – Empowerment

Marissa begins to doubt herself and questions whether she and her fellow collaborators can create the curriculum. Marissa’s mom, Priscilla, an educator herself, encourages her to pursue her passion and use their power.

Song: “Power of A Girl”

Scene 4 – Justice

Performed by Jennifer Paz and Taliya Wood

Written by Anthony Fedorov

Carmela, Marissa’s grandmother, meets with the student collaborators so they can learn about their history. Lola Carmela shares stories of her involvement in the civil rights and labor movements of the 1960s.

Song: “Enough is Enough” Performed by Kristian Lei and Ensemble

Written by Anthony Fedorov and Jeff Vincent Song: “Nuestra Voz Vencerá”

Performed by Kristian Lei and Ensemble Written by Anthony Fedorov, Jeff Vincent

and Fabian Alicastro

Scene 5 – Revolution

The year is 1898. Graciela, a revolutionary, takes the place of her fallen husband to lead Filipinos in their fight for independence against Spain, then later against the United States.

Song: “Stand (Right Here, Right Now)” Performed by Joan Almedilla

Written by Anthony Fedorov and Shelley Segal2

Featuring Sequoia Carr-Brown

Scene 6 – Hope

10 years have passed since the revolution. With the new century and a new generation, there is a sense of hope. More than ever, Filipinos are determined to gain their freedom and independence.

Song: “We Will Rise Again” Performed by Joan Almedilla, Kyra Pesebre,

Brooklynn Otto, Diamond Saige and Ensemble

Written by Raki Vega

Scene 1 – Colonialism

The year is 1920. Isabella, Graciela’s daughter, is being courted by a boy in the village, Antonio. He decides to pursue his dream of traveling to and living in America. Antonio pledges his love and promises Isabella they will be reunited in Hawai‘i.

Song: “Ikaw”

Performed by Deedee Magno Hall ...............................................

Songs: “Recuérdame” / “Remember Me”

Scene 2 – Immigration

Written by Yeng Constantino

Performed by Jon Almosara and Deedee Magno Hall

Written by Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez

Antonio is now a Sakada, a migrant worker, in a sugar cane plantation in Hawai‘i, while Isabella remains in the Philippines. They write one another every day. Suddenly, Isabella’s letters stop coming, and Antonio is heartbroken.

Song: “I’ve Arrived”

Songs: “Remember Me”1 / .............................

Performed by Jon Almosara and Ensemble

Written by Anthony Fedorov

Performed by Deedee Magno Hall and Jon Almosara “When She Loved Me”2

2

Scene 3 – War

1

Written by Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez

Written by Randy Newman

It’s 1942, and the U.S. has entered the war. Antonio is married to a local girl, Jessica. Jessica’s best friend, Lani Kagawa, is informed her family will be taken to an internment camp. Jessica promises to look after Lani’s farm and return it to Lani’s family when they are released.

Song: “When You Believe” Performed by Joan Almedilla and Ai Goeku Cheung

Written by Stephen Schwartz

Scene 4 – Patriotism

Roberto, Antonio’s son, enlists to fight for America in WWII. As a promise to his father, Roberto goes back to Antonio’s village to look for Isabella. He never finds Isabella, and instead meets Natalia.

Song: “Legacy” ...................................... Performed by Jennifer Paz and Giovanni Ortega

Written by Anthony Fedorov and Jeff Vincent Song: “I’m in Love”

Performed by Jennifer Paz and Giovanni Ortega

Written by Anthony Fedorov

Scene 5 – Recognition

The year is 2020, and Roberto is 99 years old. After decades of seeking recognition for their service and sacrifice to the United States, Roberto and his fellow Filipino WWII veterans are finally awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. Song: “Halo” Performed by Kristian Lei

Written by Ryan Tedder and Evan Bogart

Scene 6 – Identity

The student collaborators are recognized by the Hawai‘i State Legislature, whose members unanimously pass a resolution to promote their Filipino curriculum across Hawai‘i’s schools. Along this journey, the students find their voice and discover their identity.

Song: “A Million Dreams”

Curtain Call

Performed by Taliya Wood, Sammy Houghtailing,

Lucia-Blu Fowler, Monica Velasco, and Full Company

Written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul

The cast and crew take a bow and share their love and aloha with sponsors, supporters, volunteers, friends and family.

Song: “Love On Top”

Performed by Joan Almedilla, Deedee Magno Hall, Jennifer Paz, Ai Goeku Cheung, Kristian Lei,

Taliya Wood and Full Company

Written by Beyoncé, Terius Nash and Shea Taylor

Aiysis Mariano

Caitlin Agnes

Lauren Watarida

Raymart Billote

Allyza Espinosa

Jesselle Morales

Mariah Ramo

Samantha Bulos

Blaine Bacerra

Landee Resuello

Marissa Halagao

Filipino Curriculum Project

Filipinos are now the largest Asian ethnic group in Hawai‘i. The Filipino Curriculum Project is a student-driven public and private school initiative advocating for Filipino representation and educational equity in Hawai‘i’s schools. Filipino high school and college students are collaboratively creating curriculum about Filipino history, culture and identity and working together with an Educator Design Team to develop and propose a Filipino social studies course for implementation in Hawai‘i’s public schools.

FCP STUDENT COLLABORATORS

Marissa Halagao, Punahou School

Raymart, Billote, Waipahu HS/ UH West O‘ahu

Caitlin Jayne Agnes, Kapolei HS/ Temple

Lauren Watarida, Kapolei HS

Mariah Iris Ramo, Waipahu HS

Allyza Espinosa, Roosevelt HS

Blaine Bacerra, Kapolei HS

Landee Resuello, Kamehameha Schools

Jesselle Ann Morales, Waipahu HS

Aiysis Mariano, Farrington HS

Samantha Bulos, Roosevelt HS

Halle Myan Umayam, Kapolei HS/ San Diego State

Jalen Espejo, Farrington HS

Kailee Trias, Waipahu HS/ Ritsumeikan

FCP TEACHER COLLABORATORS

Breanna Agas, University of Hawai‘i, Manoa

Michelle Aquino, Waipahu HS/Farrington HS

Clement Bautista, FAHSOH

Gina Bautista, FAHSOH

Amy Boehning, Mililani HS

Shannon Cristobal, Hawai‘i Council for the Humanities

Philippe Fernandez-Brennan, Roosevelt HS/DreamHouse

Patricia Halagao, University of Hawai‘i, Manoa

Rod Labrador, University of Hawai‘i, Manoa

Norman Sales, Farrington HS

Louward Zubiri, University of Hawai‘i, Manoa

Thank You

Amy Agbayani

INDIVIDUALS

Mazie Hirono, United States Senator

Bennette Misalucha, Hawai‘i State Senator

Henry Aquino, Hawai‘i State Representative

Samuel Vierra, Punahou School

Robyn Vierra, Punahou School

Dani Goddard, Punahou School

Rachel Navarro, Punahou School

Ivee Cruz, Punahou School

Rosanna Fukuda, Hawai‘i Department of Education

Leon Florendo, Leeward Community College

Sarah Razee, Kamehameha Schools

The Parents of the Filipino Curriculum Project

SCHOOLS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Hawai‘i Department of Education

Farrington HS / Kapolei HS

Roosevelt HS / Waipahu HS

Punahou School

Kamehameha Schools

Teach for America / HawaiiKidsCAN

Saraling Gawa

Hawai‘i State Legislature

Filipino American National Historical Society

UHM COE Tinalak Filipino Education Council

Leeward Community College

UH West O‘ahu

UH System Pamantasan Council

Thank You to Our Sponsors CORPORATE

SPONSORS

KAPOLEI

Mahalo

Aloha,

This is the third time I’ve had the privilege of working with Kristian Lei and Ken Vigilia on a musical. Our first collaboration was in 2017 when we created Hope. In 2019, we brought you Believe

Dream will be the most special. Dream commemorates the 20 th anniversary of the Filipino Community Center. Since 2002, FilCom has been our community’s home, our gathering place. Dream is unique in that Kristian and our talented local team are joined by four amazing performers from the continent – all of whom played leading roles in the Broadway sensation Miss Saigon: Joan Almedilla, Deedee Magno Hall, Jennifer Paz and Ai Goeku Cheung. They’re accompanied by Los Angeles performer Giovanni Ortega and Hawai‘i’s own Jon Almosara. Rising star Taliya Wood plays the lead role of Marissa. We couldn’t be more proud of the collective talent we’ve assembled for this production. And each of them are wonderful, caring people.

Dream is based on a true story of local Hawai‘i students working together to promote inclusion, diversity and pride in their Filipino heritage and culture. They have embraced their roots, learned their history, and have encouraged others to do the same. These children have not only inspired a musical; they sparked a movement and have brought positive change in Hawai‘i.

During this journey, it was heartwarming to see the instant connection between the Filipino Curriculum Project student collaborators and the actors who play them. There was an immediate bond between the two groups. They each care about their community and are passionate about how, in their own way, they can make it better. We can all learn from their example.

Thank you for supporting the Filipino Community Center, the Filipino Curriculum Project and Dream, which I dedicate to the community that I love and to the people I treasure most: Patricia, Marissa and Jordan.

With aloha and gratitude,

AJ Halagao Writer, Producer

Filipino Community Center

The Filipino Community Center (FilCom) was opened in 2002. Sprawling over two acres by the old O‘ahu Sugar Mill in Waipahu, the three-story facility covers over 50,000 square feet, making it the largest Filipino community center outside the Philippines. FilCom is built with Filipino pride, the bayanihan spirit and a deep sense of aloha to welcome all who wish to work, play, learn, celebrate and visit the center. Proceeds from DREAM will benefit FilCom, as part of its 20 th anniversary celebration.

MISSION

To develop, own and operate a community center that provides social, economic and education services, and to promote and perpetuate Filipino culture and customs in the State of Hawai‘i.

Eddie Flores, Jr. Chair Emeritus

Roland C. Casamina President Emeritus

Edmund C. Aczon, Chair

Luis P. Salaveria, 1st Vice-Chair

Vanessa Kop, 2nd Vice-Chair

Dane K. Wicker, Treasurer

Arlina Agbayani, Secretary

Joy Agni

Clement Bautista

Peter Boylan

Jeannie Lum Executive Director

Shelly Carmona Events & Programs Director

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Glenn Dela Cruz

Damien A. Elefante

Bernadette Fajardo

Imelda Gasmen

Donnie Juan

Rufino Magliba

Gladys Quinto Marrone

Natalie Millon

Avelino J. Halagao, Jr. Chair, Board of Governors

Michelle Pelino Office Coordinator

Daniel Padilla

Agnes Reyes

Ned Rodrigues

Jun Suela

Eva Washburn-Repollo

Raymond Sebastian, Ex-Officio (OFCC)

Mary Cruzata, Ex-Officio (COVO)

Leo Gozar, Ex-Officio (UFCH)

A special mahalo to all former Board Members and to these former Executive Directors:

Donnie Juan | Toy Arre | Luella Costales | Harry Alonso | Rose Churma | Kylie Arrell

We extend our warmest gratitude to the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation for its generous donation to establish the center, and to the Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation for its continued support and partnership.

Consuelo Courtyard

20for20

Please consider making a $20 donation as part of our Aloha For FilCom 20 th Anniversary Celebration

Mahalo to all our generous Sponsors. Proceeds from this musical presentation and original play will benefit the Filipino Community Center, as part of its Aloha for FilCom 20th Anniversary Celebration.