Theatre Group Asia (TGA) has announced an exciting and groundbreaking casting choice for its highly anticipated 50th-anniversary production of A Chorus Line—Fil-Am Broadway star Lissa de Guzman will take center stage as Cassie. Known for her powerhouse performances on Broadway, De Guzman’s casting is a thrilling moment for both TGA and Filipino theatergoers.

A triple threat with a celebrated career, De Guzman is perhaps best known for her historic role as Elphaba in Wicked on the Broadway National Tour, making her the first Filipina actress to play the iconic role. Her credits extend beyond Wicked, with notable performances as Ann Darrow in King Kong and Jasmine in Aladdin. Beyond the Great White Way, she has lit up stages in productions of Waitress, Legally Blonde, Cinderella, and West Side Story, among others.

As Cassie, a character whose emotional depth and technical complexity have made her one of musical theater’s most iconic roles, De Guzman’s talents are sure to shine in this role. “Cassie is a role that requires a unique blend of vulnerability, strength, and dance mastery,” says TGA’s Executive Producer Christopher Mohnani. “Lissa de Guzman’s talent, passion, and dedication to her craft will bring a new dimension to this beloved character. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have her on board for this monumental production.”

The upcoming A Chorus Line will also feature a stellar cast, with Conrad Ricamora, known for his Tony- and Grammy-nominated work, playing Zach, the director who must choose between his dancers. The production will showcase a diverse and meticulously selected ensemble, with over 300 hopefuls auditioning for coveted roles through a global casting call.

For De Guzman, this staging marks a personal and professional milestone. The Milwaukee native, who earned her BFA in Musical Theater from Belmont University, reflects on her journey to the stage: “When I was younger, I never thought I would end up in theater. But my love for it grew over time, and I realized it was the path I wanted to pursue,” she shares. “Coming to the Philippines and bringing my craft to my father’s homeland is incredibly special.”

In addition to her stage work, De Guzman is dedicated to arts education, mentoring young performers and supporting outreach programs. This passion aligns with TGA’s commitment to providing educational opportunities, which will be a key feature of this production, including workshops and seminars for students.

The Story Behind the Show: Originally premiering in 1975, A Chorus Line redefined the Broadway musical by focusing on the lives of the dancers who often remain in the shadows of the spotlight. This timeless production delves into the heart of ambition, sacrifice, and the search for identity, all set against the backdrop of a high-stakes audition for a Broadway show. The musical, which won both the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, continues to resonate with audiences today.

TGA’s production of A Chorus Line will run from March 12–29, 2026, and promises to be a must-see event. Tickets are available through TicketWorld, with prices ranging from PHP 900 to PHP 5,500.

Related posts: Conrad Ricamora to Lead Philippine Production of A Chorus Line by Theatre Group Asia