REP’s 88th Season Opens with the Return of "I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change"

 

The show officially opens REP’s 88th Season at its new home theater in Eastwood!

After an unforgettable run last season, Repertory Philippines (REP) kicked off their 88th Season by bringing back the hit musical comedy I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Running until March 9, 2025, at the REP Eastwood Theater in Eastwood City Walk, Quezon City, this production continues to captivate audiences with its hilarious yet heartfelt take on love and relationships.
 

REP Eastwood Theater

I had the privilege of watching the show on opening night last season, and now, a year later, I found myself back in the audience for its grand return. Comparing the two experiences, I can truly say that the cast has taken their performances to an entirely new level. The actors have fully embodied each of the 40 characters they portray, making the transitions between vignettes even more seamless and immersive. The humor still lands perfectly, the heart-wrenching moments still tug at the soul, and the entire show feels fresher than ever. This time around, I felt an even deeper connection to the stories and characters, gaining a richer understanding of the many facets of love and relationships.
 

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change holds the distinction of being the longest-running off-Broadway musical, a two-act romantic comedy that explores the highs and lows of love in today’s fast-paced world. With book and lyrics by the award-winning Joe DiPietro and music by renowned composer Jimmy Roberts, the show was given a fresh take in 2024 by the First Lady of Philippine Musical Theater, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo. Set against the backdrop of modern dating -- complete with the chaos of social media and dating app -- it delves into the joys, frustrations, and surprises that come with romance, commitment, and marriage.

The show’s structure, composed of 20 vignettes, offers something for everyone, whether you’re single, newly in love, or decades into a relationship. Some of the most memorable moments include the hopeful I Will Be Loved Tonight before a nerve-wracking first date, the tender Shouldn’t I Be Less in Love with You capturing a long-term partner’s devotion, the hilarious and all-too-relatable The Very First Dating Video of Rose Ritz, and the heartwarming I Can Live With That, which celebrates love in one’s later years. No matter how many times I see these scenes, they never get old.
 

Returning to the stage to reprise their roles are Gian Magdangal, Gabby Padilla, Krystal Kane, and Marvin Ong, who bring unmatched chemistry and charm to each vignette. Davy Narciso and Barbara Jance also return as the show’s male and female swings, seamlessly stepping into multiple roles when needed. Their performances are even more refined and dynamic than last season, proving just how much this show has grown.

Since its 2024 staging, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change has been widely recognized as one of the highlights of the Philippine theater scene, earning nominations for 13 Gawad Buhay Awards and 2 Aliw Awards. Notable nominations include Female Lead Performance in a Musical for Krystal Kane and Gabby Padilla, Male Lead Performance for Gian Magdangal and Marvin Ong, and Outstanding Musical Direction by Ejay Yatco. Gabby Padilla was also nominated as Best Lead Actress in a Musical for the Aliw Awards 2024, while the production itself was recognized for Best Musical Play.
 

This remarkable show is brought to life by a stellar creative team, including Assistant Director Cara Barredo, Musical Director Ejay Yatco, Choreographer Stephen Viñas, Set and Costume Designer Joey Mendoza, Associate Costume Designer Hershee Tantiado, Lights Designer Meliton Roxas Jr., Sound Designer Aji Manalo, Projection Designer GA Fallarme, and Associate Projection Designer Justin Santiago. Their work, combined with the adept production team and live musicians, ensures a visually and sonically stunning experience.

The show received great accolades, and even though it was first launched in 1996, Menchu’s direction has made it more resonant than ever. There’s something in this production for everyone -- whether you’re single or have been in a committed relationship for years. We’re excited to kick off our 88th Season with this hit show and to welcome audiences to our new home at the REP Eastwood Theater.

shares REP President Mindy Perez-Rubio.

Having seen I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change in both its 2024 and 2025 runs, I can confidently say it’s a production that only gets better with time. Whether you’re watching for the first time or returning for another round, you’ll find yourself laughing, tearing up, and perhaps even seeing your own love story reflected on stage. Don’t miss the chance to experience this incredible show before it closes!