‘Hook Up the Musical’ returns: Why this bold Cebuano story on love, HIV is more urgent than ever

The Cebuano musical explores dating apps, HIV awareness, and modern love in a one-night-only restaging.

“[A] beautiful love story is possible for everyone, including people living with HIV.”

This is how Shim Dagatan sums up why the restaging of “Hook Up the Musical” matters.

Shim, alongside Paul Pablo, Jan Echavarria, and Grant Bacaltos, reprises their roles for a one-night-only run on June 13 at Sky Hall Seaside in Cebu.

Set in the world of gay dating apps, “Hook Up the Musical” follows TimidTim, a shy young man searching for something deeper. His journey leads him to IAmAnonymous, whose openness about his HIV status sparks an emotional reckoning—and a much-needed conversation.

For Shim, Tim’s story hits close to home. “Like Tim, I was once naive about relationships. I built my ideas of romance from movies and books, only to realize the real world is far more complex,” he shared.

He also pointed out how even high achievers can lack proper HIV awareness. “I was a ‘smart kid,’ yet I only learned about these realities once I was out in the world. Fear and stigma still stifle conversations.”

Paul, meanwhile, describes Tim as an optimist. “He’s a dreamer and a summa cum laude who believes in true love even in unlikely places,” he said. “What makes him vital is that he challenges stigma. People may see him as naive, but there’s strength in knowing what you want and staying true to it.”

Jan, who plays Manny or IAmAnonymous, admitted the role initially overwhelmed him. “But after the first run, seeing how people resonated with his story changed me. I felt more pride than fear,” he said.

For the restaging, his focus is clear: “To fully embrace Manny’s heart and tell his story even better.”

Grant echoed the responsibility of portraying Manny. “The emotional demands are massive. During the first run, I didn’t feel ready, but I wanted his story to reach people,” he shared.

Audience reactions, he added, made it worthwhile. “People opened up about their fears and longing for love. They felt seen.”

Beyond its love story, the musical reflects a pressing reality. Dating apps remain central to many Filipino MSM communities, offering connection while also intersecting with rising HIV cases and mental health struggles.

What unfolds onstage is not just one narrative but a collage of queer experiences—stories of loneliness, healing, friendship, and hope.

Writer-director Jude Gitamondoc revealed that the project began as a casual idea among friends. Initially shelved, it was revived during the pandemic, when isolation pushed him to write most of the songs.

“The decision to include a character living with HIV came from my own fears,” he said. “It became deeply personal, which is why I chose to direct and produce it myself.”

For this restaging, his goal is simple: expand its reach. “This isn’t just about making the show bigger—it’s about reaching audiences who need this message most,” he said. “We need this conversation in our country more than ever.”

The June 13 restaging will have three performances: 1 PM (students), 4:30 PM (regular), and 8 PM (gala). Tickets are available on Ticket2Me.

 

 

The decision to include a character living with HIV came from my own fears. It became deeply personal, which is why I chose to direct and produce it myself.

Jude Gitamondoc

 

 

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