Dolly de Leon, the first Filipino to be nominated for a Golden Globe for her role in ‘Triangle of Sadness,’ is taking on a new challenge with ‘Request sa Radyo,’ a stage production where she shares the stage with renowned actress Lea Salonga. While both women have achieved international recognition, they had never met before. Dolly, known for her nuanced portrayals, wanted to break the ice and invited Lea to dinner, a move that underscores her genuine nature and the importance of human connection.
Dolly’s journey to the world stage hasn’t been without its challenges. Having spent much of her career in the shadows, often playing unnamed roles like ‘doctor’ or ‘judge,’ she admits that the recognition she received for her powerful performance in ‘Triangle of Sadness’ has been overwhelming. Her character, Abigail, a cleaner on a luxury yacht, initially exists on the periphery, unseen by the privileged passengers. However, she eventually takes control, asserting her presence and influencing the lives of others when they are shipwrecked.
In ‘Request sa Radyo,’ Dolly and Lea delve into the shared experience of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who often face loneliness and isolation. They take turns playing the same character, a caregiver, a Filipino living in a foreign land, invisible to those around them. The play explores the profound impact of loneliness and the yearning for connection, a sentiment that resonates deeply with Dolly. Her own experiences living in Munich for six months while her children were back in the Philippines provided a firsthand understanding of the challenges OFWs face. She vividly describes the loneliness of being away from her loved ones, the time difference making it difficult to connect with them. The experience gave her a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices OFWs make for their families and the strength they exhibit in the face of isolation.
‘Request sa Radyo’ promises to be an intimate experience, with the performer alone on stage, surrounded by the audience. This close proximity will introduce a new level of pressure for Dolly, who is accustomed to larger productions. She acknowledges the fear that comes with such an intimate setting, but she embraces it as a challenge, a motivator to deliver a powerful performance. For Dolly, the makeup process is an essential part of creating her character, a personal ritual that allows her to fully embody the role. She prefers to be left alone in her dressing room, allowing herself to immerse in the character’s world.
‘Request sa Radyo’ explores themes of isolation, loneliness, and the yearning for community. It’s a reminder that even in our interconnected world, there are still those who feel unseen and unheard. Dolly de Leon, through her heartfelt portrayal, aims to bring those stories to the forefront, celebrating the resilience and sacrifices of OFWs and the human need for connection. The play promises to be a powerful and poignant exploration of these themes, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who often remain invisible.
