MANILA, Philippines — Filipino-American actors Josh Dela Cruz and Arielle Jacobs are finally getting a taste — literally — of the homeland.
In Manila for their Philippine theater debut, the two Broadway veterans said they’ve been enjoying local food that not only celebrates their heritage but also caters to their diets.
Both actors are part of the all-star cast of Theatre Group Asia’s “Into The Woods,” which opens this August for a limited run at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati.
Arielle, who plays Cinderella, is visiting the country for the first time. Hee mother’s family left Baguio before she was born.
Meanwhile, Josh, best known for hosting the children’s show “Blue’s Clues & You,” said the trip has allowed him to rediscover Filipino food in a more inclusive way.
Arielle previously played Imelda Marcos in Broadway musical “Here Lies Love,” Nina Rosario in “In the Heights,” Nessarose in “Wicked,” Princess Jasmine in “Aladdin,” and the Baker’s Wife in a Florida production of “Into the Woods.”
Josh has worked in television, also has stage credits in “Here Lies Love,” “The King and I,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” and most notably the title role in “Aladdin.”
Related: ‘Blue’s Clues & You’ host Josh Dela Cruz joins ‘Into The Woods’ for Philippine stage debut
Identity through food
During a press conference for “Into The Woods” on July 31, the two actors were asked how were they adjusting to having actual Filipino food.
Josh, who has followed a vegan and vegetarian diet for nearly a decade, confessed he is unable to eat Filipino dishes that served in the United States.
“It’s been something that really, really upsets me because I love [Filipino food] so much, it’s part of my culture and how I grew up,” Josh said.
Being in the Philippines, however, has made a difference for Josh.
“It just makes me so proud to be from here because I don’t feel excluded the way I sometimes do back in the US,” Josh said. He also said local dishes are delicious, and even jokingly said he’d gladly accept food sponsorships.
Arielle chimed in to say all vegetarian Filipino could head their way.
She also delighted the crowd with her impression of a taho vendor, shouting “taho!” She said she had just tried the treat for the first time while in Manila.
Broadway talents on Manila stage. “Into the Woods” features 18 main characters from popular fairy tales — fronted by a baker, his wife, and an aging witch — come together in one musical.
The original Broadway production was nominated for 10 Tonys, including Best Musical, winning three: Best Score for Stephen Sondheim, Best Book (Musical), and Best Lead Actress (Musical) for Joanna Gleason.
RELATED: ‘Into the Woods’ adds 6 new August show dates
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