A Whole New World for Kakki

(Published Dec. 15, PDI-Entertainment)

A Pinay lead star in HK Disney
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor

“High School Musical” has evolved for an Asian crowd at Hong Kong Disneyland, where Filipina Kakki Teodoro sings and dances daily as the female lead.

The 21-year-old previously performed in Manila productions of Disney musicals.

“High School Musical: Live!” is an interactive 30-minute outdoor show staged on a moving set that traverses Main Street thrice a day.

Kakki spoke about her Disney-themed experiences in a recent email interview with Inquirer Entertainment.

How similar to Vanessa Hudgens’ performance do you have to make yours?
I’m introduced as Kakki, the female lead singer for the show, so there’s no need to make the performance similar to Vanessa Hudgens’ portrayal of Gabriella.

Before “HSM,” what shows did you appear in?
Being part of “High School Musical: Live!” at Hong Kong Disneyland is actually my first time working for Disney. Aside from that, I am also the Tarzan Singer for “The Golden Mickeys.”
Before Hong Kong Disneyland, I was an actor in musicals in the Philippines. I was in “First Name,” “Disney’s Cinderella,” “Disney’s High School Musical Onstage,” and “Disney’s Aladdin Jr.”

How does it feel to regularly play a Disney character?
It is very overwhelming, but I am very honored to do it. I grew up watching Disney movies everyday on VHS.

How challenging is it to perform the show live?
It’s an outdoor show so adjusting to many different factors makes this show hard. We have to adjust for changes in the weather, because sometimes it gets so hot, and then in the winter it gets chilly. Other factors include unexpected technical difficulties like losing microphone reception. But these are little things, because the work is so much fun.

Describe your rapport with the actor playing Zac Efron’s character.
There are three male lead singers. Two of them are Filipino. Working with them makes each day interesting, as they have different styles and I react differently to each one. Anthony Suen Ming Kit is consistent so it’s very comfortable. Ariel Reonal and I worked together in Repertory Philippines. He always makes me want to step up my game when we’re together. Bill Castillo is very playful so we have the most fun.

What are you learning?
I am learning the importance of balance--keeping the show consistent and being in top shape everyday--while being open to changes and learning more things.