Markki Stroem and Garrett Bolden had the chance to compete against each other before becoming cast members in the upcoming 9 Works Theatrical musical ‘Rent.’
According to Stroem, he and Bolden competed in the 2010 ABS-CBN talent competition Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT).
“We were in the same batch, season one!” blurted the Filipino-Norwegian artist during the musical’s roundtable on March 12 at the Mirror Theatre Studio in Makati City.
Bolden shared they were pitted against each other during the second week of the semifinals. It was his opponent who had a slight advantage, and eventually reached the finals of the competition.
“If I were to be specific, during the semifinals, that was semifinals week 2. Magkalaban tayo on that same day! There was text votes, and you won by two percent!”
Stroem recalled performing John Legend’s “Ordinary People,” and captured the show’s judges’ hearts, including Kris Aquino’s. Meanwhile, Bolden sang “Ikaw” by Martin Nievera.
“It was Kris Aquino who was feeling a little emotional at that time. I sang ‘Ordinary People,’ and she was like, ‘Oh my God, Bimby yan!’” he joked.
A great experience, says Stroem
Fast forward to the present, both of them now enjoys working together as Tommy Collins’ alternates, collaborating on how they interpret the character.
“I really really enjoyed working with Garrett, especially since he is like an open book. He’s like a sponge. I love the whole feeling of opening your mindset to like what could be instead of sticking to what you know. It’s great because we keep challenging ourselves,” Stroem said.
He added, “My gosh, Garret is so much fun to work with! I have to say, this guy, it’s like, I have worked with a few alternates, like, for example, kung paano ako naging leading lady with Hans, and like we really created the character together.”
Stroem will also play Benny, and will alternate with Guji Lorenzana, who will also take on the role of Mr. Johnson.
‘Rent’ is an award-winning rock musical by John Larson. It will be performed by 9 Works Theatrical in RCBC Plaza, Makati, from April until June of this year. Tickets start at P2000.
