John Sweet Lapus tackles LGBTQIA+ mental health in ‘True to Life’

The Trevor Project is a nonprofit focused on suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ young people. Its 2024 Philippine survey found that 62% of surveyed LGBTQ+ youth reported symptoms of depression in the previous two weeks, a finding that applies to young respondents rather than the entire LGBTQIA+ population.

“Ang mga bakla, masayahing tao, nag-entertain, nagpapaligaya,” Lapus said after his play “True to Life” was named one of the 12 finalists of the inaugural Puregold Teatro Panalo.

He observed that the cheerful and entertaining persona often associated with gay people can mask their personal struggles, making it difficult for them to share their problems even with friends.

In “True to Life,” a gay character finally opens up to a close female friend about his emotional struggles. The play explores how a person dealing with depression and sadness can begin to overcome these difficulties with the help of someone willing to listen.

Lapus said the story draws from experiences he has witnessed among friends and people around him, although it is not necessarily an account of his own life.

He wants audiences to see the process of helping someone through a difficult period, including the conversations and moments of humor that can lead to a deeper understanding between friends.

The play could also become part of a larger theatrical work connecting it to “Taksyapo,” Lapus’ play that became one of the most watched productions during the recent Virgin Labfest.

Lapus said he envisions a three-act production of “True to Life” is selected for a full length staging. The first act would be “Taksyapo,” followed by “True to Life,” with a third act that he has yet to write.

He is also considering Christian Bables and Chamyto for the production. Chamyto previously stepped in for Bables during a recent one-day staging of “Taksyapo.” 

Lapus said the two plays could feature the same characters or stand independently, depending on how the production develops.

Meanwhile, Lapus defended Atasha Muhlach against criticism that preceded her appearance in “Bongga Ka, ‘Day! The Musical,” which also features Lapus as cast.

He said the early bashing may have pushed Muhlach to work harder, including taking voice lessons and additional dance classes. Lapus encouraged critics to watch the production before making judgments, saying audiences could assess the performance for themselves.

“Bongga Ka, ‘Day!” runs until October 31.

“True to Life” is among 12 original works selected for the inaugural Puregold Teatro Panalo, which chose eight straight plays and four musicals. Organized by Wishbone Collective Inc., the festival will run from February 20 to March 14, 2027. Each finalist receives a ₱100,000 talent fee, along with development and production support. One straight play and one musical will eventually be selected for full-length productions, with additional development grants to help bring the works to the stage.

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