The original Filipino musical Rivalry: Ateneo-La Salle The Musical, runs until March 11, 2012 at the Meralco Theater in Pasig. The show was produced by The 4th Wall Company with Ateneo alumnus Ed Gatchalian as executive producer, composer and arranger.

Veteran theater director Jaime del Mundo, who studied at La Salle, did the book and directed the show. Multi-talented actor Joel Trinidad, who also went to the Ateneo like Gatchalian, wrote the lyrics. The show’s cast includes over 50 of the country’s established actors and young, up-and-coming theatre artists. Acclaimed thespian Noel Trinidad, another Ateneo alumnus, plays a special role.

As the title suggests, the musical is all about the long-standing competition between students and alumni of both schools, not just in athletics and academics but in their personal lives as well. The setting is 1968, when Ateneo and La Salle were still part of the NCAA.

The story revolves around two families, one whose members are from Ateneo and the other from La Salle. While involving the two schools, the show tackles a universal theme (rivalry) with all its dramatic ramifications, complications and effects on the protagonists. Thus, it should prove interesting and entertaining even for those not affiliated with either school.

Tickets can be purchased in advance from TicketWorld www.ticketworld.com.ph at tel. no. 891-9999 or at the Meralco Theatre itself just before the show.