The modern superhero formula is one that typically endorses universal values through certain binaries—good versus evil, heroes and villains, crime and justice. But Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical… ‘Yun Lang!, Ateneo Blue Repertory’s first live production since the start of the pandemic, queers that formula by redefining the hero’s alter ego as a metaphor for the trans experience and a reflection on womanhood in an unaccepting world.
Based on the graphic novel by Carlo Vergara and originally adapted for the stage in 2006 by Chris Martinez, Zsazsa follows gay beautician Ada, who, after swallowing a magical stone that turns them into the titular superpowered woman, must fight an extraterrestrial threat and confront their own place in society.
This specific production doesn’t always have the dexterity to balance on-stage spectacle with the show’s thornier ideas on gender, but it’s performed with more than enough spirit to still feel sincere and disruptive. …
Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical… ‘Yun Lang! runs until April 2 at the Doreen Black Box Theater, Quezon City.
Emil Reviews Things 