From our friends. “Tear It Up” is a re-imagined excerpt from a Hip-Hop Filipino American Musical based on the short story, THE ROMANCE OF MAGNO RUBIO, written by Carlos Bulosan and the award winning stage play produced by Ma-Yi Theater Company. Performed by an international cast that aims to capture the style and energy of the Manongs, the essential workers of their time helping feed America throughout the Great Depression. They faced hardships, along with racism, as they became scapegoats amongst other Asians during those tough economic times.
To escape the doldrums of working as a migrant farm laborer, Magno Rubio’s bunkmates take him to Jezebel’s dancehall, where they pay 10 cents a dance for companionship. The Manongs happen to be amazing dancers. By the time the song ends, Magno begs his friends to stop but is pulled in to dance and ultimately relents and finally tears it up!
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Creative Team
Lonnie Carter, Knowa Lazarus and Charles Uy | Writers
Charles R. Uy | Director, Editor
Jasmine Rafael | Choreography
Jerisse de Juan | 2nd Unit Director
Flava Matikz of Q-York | Music Producer
Ma-Yi Theater Company | Special Thanks
Marc Macalintal | Special Thanks
Joan Almedilla | Special Thanks
Jake Pesquira | Special Thanks
CJ Uy | Special Thanks
Performers
Alan Ariano | Dancer
Lawrence Benny Achivida | Dancer
Danny Bernardo | Dancer
Eymard Cabling | Dancer
Cesar Cipriano | Dancer
Erick Esteban | Dancer
Flava Matiikz | Dancer
Knowa Lazarus | Dancer
Mike Palma | Performer
Kevin Perdido | Performer
AJ Rafael | Performer
John John Martin Tarrayo | Performer
Rodney To | Performer
Reuben Uy | Performer
Anthea Neri Best | Performer
Veronica Cabling | Performer
Nassim Khaligh | Performer
Jasmine Joy Rafael | Performer
Tyler Kenneth Stafford | Performer
Minverva Benedicto Vier | Performer
Bree Wernecke | Performer