Matt Blaker Makes Philippine Stage Debut in The Bodyguard Musical
British Actor Matt Blaker Embraces Philippine Debut in The Bodyguard Musical
When British actor Matt Blaker learned earlier this year that he had landed the male lead in the Philippine staging of the hit musical The Bodyguard, he was already on the road, touring with an international production.
“I was excited. I love traveling. I’d just come off the international tour of Chicago, where we visited 15 or 16 countries,” he shared. “I love immersing myself in new cultures, new experiences—and the Filipino people have been so welcoming. That was my main feeling: excitement about getting involved in a new place. And when you live somewhere for three or four months, you really get to experience it—there’s nothing better than that.”
In 9Works Theatrical’s latest production, Matt takes on the iconic role of Frank Farmer, originally portrayed by Kevin Costner in the 1992 Hollywood film opposite Whitney Houston. Since arriving in Manila last month to begin rehearsals, Matt has been full of praise for his castmates—most of whom he met for the first time during this production, except for fellow West End performer Christine Collado.
“They are just as talented and passionate as anyone I’ve worked with in the West End,” he said. “The standard here is incredibly high—the quality of the singing, dancing, and acting is second to none. Theater is booming in the Philippines, and that’s so clear in The Bodyguard with this amazing Filipino talent.”
Matt hopes that more people will come to experience live theater, especially productions like The Bodyguard, which he describes as highly entertaining and accessible to all audiences.
“There’s nothing like live theater,” he said. “It’s like watching TV, but it’s happening right in front of you. It’s loud, it’s immersive—it’s the perfect night out. The Bodyguard is a great introduction to theater because it feels like a concert, a movie, and a love story all rolled into one. It’s a timeless tale of forbidden love that resonates across all ages.”
With the show set to wrap up in October, Matt is already looking forward to exploring more of the Philippines. It’s his first time in the country, and he’s eager to experience everything—from the food to the islands.
“I haven’t had balut yet,” he laughed, “but I’m slowly making my way through Filipino food. I’ve tried rambutan and all sorts of other things—it’s been great. As soon as I arrived, the cast gave me a list of things I had to try! So far, no balut yet.”
A surfing enthusiast, Matt has plans to visit Siargao after the show’s run. “Our choreographer has a place in Cebu, and there’s canyoneering in Moalboal that looks amazing,” he added. “I’d love to jump into the river and really experience nature here. We’re also planning a trip to Balesin, which I think will be absolutely beautiful.”
As for the weather? Matt says the Philippines reminds him a bit of home.
“It rains just as much in London—not quite as hard, but still,” he said with a smile. “I’m hoping the sun comes out in October!”
