The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) has dismissed rumors that actress, singer, and host Atasha Muhlach bypassed the audition process for her lead role in the upcoming production Bongga Ka ‘Day: The Musical.
PETA President Melvin Lee clarified the issue in an official statement, confirming that Muhlach secured the role of Annie Batungbakal strictly through her merit and performance during tryouts.
“Atasha delivered a strong audition, showcasing solid singing, dancing and stage presence,” Lee said.
“She displayed natural chemistry with the male actors and blended seamlessly with the ensemble of triple-threat theater performers. More importantly, she brought the charisma, warmth and panache needed for Annie Batungbakal, with the charm and look to convincingly lead the production… Overall, she proved to be a strong choice for the role.”
Muhlach reportedly stood out among approximately 300 hopefuls who vied for the coveted part. Reports note that she attended the auditions accompanied by her grandmother, Elvie Gonzales, mother of former beauty queen Charlene Gonzales.
The creative team ultimately chose Muhlach, stating her charisma and stage presence perfectly encapsulated the character.
The controversy sparked when a fellow auditionee, Rachel Libres, took to social media to claim she never saw Muhlach during the public casting calls.
“No hate po. Respectfully, I was there during the two-day casting process, and I didn’t see Atasha in either day’s auditions. Kaya sana huwag din nating i-disregard ang effort at hirap ng lahat ng pumila,naghintay, kumanta, at sumayaw para mabigyan ng pagkakataon. Kung may nangyaring hiwalay na audition o private, ibang usapan na iyon. Pero base sa mismong open auditions na dinaluhan ko, wala siya roon,” Libres said.
However, theater actress and vocal coach Gimbey dela Cruz quickly countered the allegation, confirming that Muhlach did attend the subsequent rounds.
“I was at that callback, it was a Friday. She (Atasha Muhlach) was there,” dela Cruz said.
The highly anticipated musical is slated to premier this September at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.