Gian Magdangal among the cast of 'Dear Evan Hansen' in Singapore

Seasoned Filipino singer and theater actor Gian Magdangal is among the cast of the Tony Award-winning musical "Dear Evan Hansen" in Singapore.

The 42-year-old Gian will play the role of Larry Murphy, the father of a boy named Conor who died by suicide.

In an exclusive interview with GMA News Online, Gian said that he got the role after auditioning through video.

"I have been dreaming of working with something, working with people from other countries, especially with 'Dear Evan Hansen.' You know, it's a very big hit, a good story, and being part of it is a dream come true for me," he said.

Gian said that he's long been a fan of the musical's songs. He got to know the story after watching the movie during the pandemic.

"It just hit me differently also and how the music is very moving. By listening to the soundtrack, you could easily be an instant fan of the material," he said. 

As for his role as Larry, Gian wants to highlight the importance of communication within the family, especially between parents and children.

"Sometimes a lot of people know how to cover up trouble. They know how to cover up when they are not feeling good," he said. "We should be aware of people and what they may be going through. We cannot always judge people; there's always something deeper."

Gian is known for his roles in previous musicals such as "Ang Huling El Bimbo," "Rent" Manila staging, and "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change."

Despite his long experience in the industry, he admitted that he still gets nervous when performing. To him, every show changes a part of his life and leaves its mark.

"When you see the audience, see that it affects them, it changes life for good, you see the purpose what theater is made for, and being a part of that, it's a privilege. To tell a story and make it a profession is really a big privilege to have. It's something I really get fun with and I'm thankful that I still get to do it this day," he said.

"Dear Evan Hansen" is set to open on October 11, at the Victoria Theatre in Singapore and will run until November 10.

The lead role will be played by 24-year-old musician Angelo Martinez. 

Also among the cast are Rebekah Sangeetha Dorai, Xander Pang, Zachary Pang, Gary Rae, Mia Smith, and Ethel Yap. It will be directed by Tracie Pang.

The music and lyrics of the show were written by the songwriting duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, renowned for their contributions to blockbuster hits like "La La Land" and "The Greatest Showman."

The book, meanwhile, was written by Steven Levenson.