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Aicelle Santos to star as Elsa in 'Himala: Isang Musikal' film
Aicelle Santos is all set to reprise her role as Elsa in the upcoming film “Himala: Isang Musikal.”
The theater actress and singer shared the exciting news in an Instagram Reel, which showed her during song rehearsals for the show.
“It's been a while,” Aicelle said in her caption. “Taking on Elsa again after 5 years.”
“A lot has happened and a lot has changed. But one thing remains—I’ll still and will always be grateful to be able to go back to my first love, singing/musical theater. And this time, in the movies,” she added.
“Himala: Isang Musikal” is an official entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) this December 2024.
Aicelle also shared a shot of the script. “Himala: Isang Musikal” has a book and lyrics by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ricky Lee, with music and lyrics by composer Vince De Jesus.
The upcoming musical film has a script by Lee and will be directed by award-winning filmmaker Pepe Diokno.
“Himala: Isang Musikal” was first staged in 2003, and it was in 2018 when Aicelle took on the role of Elsa. It is based on the classic 1982 film, “Himala,” starring Nora Aunor, directed by Ishmael Bernal, and written by Lee.
“Himala” tackles themes of faith and truth. The film follows a woman named Elsa in the small town of Cupang. The Virgin Mary allegedly appears as an apparition to Elsa, and she becomes a savior who heals the sick and is believed to be behind the miracle of making it rain in their town which has been suffering from a long drought.
Aicelle is best known for her roles as Gigi in the UK tour production of “Miss Saigon” and Aileen in the original Filipino musical “Rak of Aegis.”
Aside from acting and singing, Aicelle is a wife to former GMA News broadcaster Mark Zambrano and a mom to two daughters, Zandrine and Zemira.
—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News
