‘Here Lies Love’ Reimagined at the Mark Taper Forum: A Disco-Fueled Revolution

The Mark Taper Forum is once again pulsing with energy, this time to the beat of disco and dissent. Center Theatre Group Artistic Director Snehal Desai has revitalized the venue—a cornerstone of the city’s theatrical heritage—to host the Los Angeles premiere of David Byrne and Fatboy Slim’s HERE LIES LOVE. This production arrives 16 months after Desai’s successful reopening of the Taper with GREEN DAY’S AMERICAN IDIOT, a co-production with Deaf West Theatre, following a period of financial challenges.

Those who experienced AMERICAN IDIOT will recognize familiar elements—the striking production values, dynamic choreography, and thought-provoking themes—but HERE LIES LOVE offers a distinct experience. The L.A. Premiere features additional songs and boasts an all-Filipino and predominantly AAPI creative team, setting it apart from the 2023 Broadway production directed by Alex Timbers.

From Concept Album to Stage Spectacle

Originally conceived as a concept album in 2006, the musical traces the life of Imelda Marcos, from her humble beginnings to her controversial reign as First Lady of the Philippines and the subsequent People Power Revolution that led to her family’s exile in Hawaii. While President Ferdinand Marcos and Imelda’s former lover-turned-political-opponent Ninoy Aquino play significant roles, the story centers on Imelda herself. The production reimagines her story through the persona of “Imeldific,” a drag incarnation of Imelda (played by Aura Mayari), who opens the show with “American Troglodyte,” a song celebrating American wealth and cultural influence.

The musical contrasts the values of young Imelda (Reanne Acasio) with those of her friend Estrella Cumpas (Carol Angeli). Imelda’s initial romance with social justice-minded Ninoy Aquino (Joshua Dela Cruz) ends when he chooses a more suitable partner. Undeterred, she pursues a relationship with Senator Ferdinand Marcos (Chris Renfro), marrying him just two weeks after their first meeting, launching her ascent to power. The narrative encompasses parties, travels, wardrobe acquisitions, affairs, imprisonment, torture, assassinations, and revolution.

A Fast-Paced Journey Through History

The creators of HERE LIES LOVE aim to spark conversation rather than provide an exhaustive historical account. Covering four decades in 90 minutes, the musical moves at a brisk pace, occasionally feeling rushed. However, Desai, music directors Joe Cruz and Jennifer Lin, and choreographer William Carlos Angulo deliver the musical numbers with energy and impact, encouraging audience participation. Rallies and raves often spill into the audience, with select speeches delivered from within the crowd. Yee Eun Nam’s projections enhance the visual storytelling.

Desai, known for his work as artistic director at East West Players on productions like ASSASSINS and ALLEGIANCE, skillfully blends substance and spectacle. The Taper’s intimate configuration lends itself well to immersive experiences like this one. The production utilizes its technical capabilities to create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

Outrage and Reflection

Amidst the energetic revelry, the production encourages reflection. Acasio delivers a compelling performance as Imelda, navigating her transformation from ingenue to anti-heroine. The songs “Here Lies Love” and “Why Don’t You Love Me?” bookend Imelda’s journey, highlighting her evolving perspective. Joan Almedilla’s cameo appearance as Aurora Aquino, delivering the eulogy “Just Ask the Flowers,” prompts outrage and reinforces the production’s political message.

The production doesn’t shy away from provocative elements, serving as a catalyst for further exploration. Center Theatre Group provides dramaturgical materials, including interviews and a guide to Historic Filipinotown, along with a QR code linking to a 12-week contextual syllabus.

HERE LIES LOVE plays through April 5 at 135 N. Grand Ave., L.A.

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Photo of Joan Almedilla and the ensemble by Jeff Lorch.