Stage actor and singer David Ezra has officially been cast in the lead role of ‘Jeproks The Musical’, an upcoming jukebox musical based on the life and music of Filipino rock legend Mike Hanopol.
The production is being staged by Tanghalang Una Obra in partnership with The Hammock Production Inc. and Twin Bill Theater.
Set to run from November 20–23 and November 27–30, 2025, at the GSIS Theater in the CCP Complex, Jeproks will feature 15 iconic songs from Hanopol’s discography, including the timeless anthems ‘Laki sa Layaw,’ ‘Mr. Kenkoy,’ ‘Lumipad na ang Ibon,’ ‘Buhay America,’ and ‘Umiiyak Hindi Lumilingon.’
The musical is written by award-winning playwright Nicolas Pichay and directed by Frannie Zamora, who aims to reintroduce Hanopol’s music to a younger generation. “We want to adapt the songs of Sir Mike to a new generation—Gen Z and the millennials,” Zamora said.
Ezra, who earned a Best Supporting Actor nomination at the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival for ‘Isang Himala’, expressed deep admiration for Hanopol. “Sir Mike is one of the pillars of Philippine rock and roll. Telling his story to the younger generation is vital for them to understand where all the rock influences they listen to today came from,” Ezra said.
He added that he’s particularly excited to perform songs like ‘Balong Malalim,’ which aligns with his own musical sensibilities as a rock guitarist. “I like blues and rock-influenced songs,” Ezra said.
Despite being 79, Hanopol remains sharp and reflective, crediting his long life to his faith and deep spiritual understanding. “Pati ‘yung mga nangyari sa akin noong maliit pa ako, natatandaan ko,” he shared during the recent media launch. “That’s thanks to oral stem cell.”
Though he humbly claims he no longer feels excitement the way he once did in the 1970s, Hanopol acknowledged the significance of this production. “It’s important for Filipinos today to understand the meaning behind my songs,” he said. (with reports from Loyd Pino)
