Rhythm is gonna get us!

By Philip Cu Unjieng

Published Jun 12, 2026 05:54 pm    

The strand of global music labeled as Latin Pop is now firmly part of the mainstream. One only has to look at artists like Shakira and Bad Bunny, who regularly perform at major international sporting events, to see how far the genre has come. Even those who are not avid fans would likely recognize their names, alongside stars such as Camila Cabello, and acknowledge their worldwide popularity.

What many younger listeners may not realize, however, is that Latin Pop was not always embraced this way.

In the 1990s, artists such as Ricky Martin, Enrique Iglesias, and the late Selena were often viewed as rare crossover success stories rather than representatives of a thriving global genre.

Go back even further to the 1980s, and one of the artists who helped lay the groundwork for Latin Pop's mainstream acceptance was Gloria Estefan alongside the Miami Sound Machine.   

Gloria and her husband, Emilio Estefan, charted a path that many others would eventually follow. Through a string of hit records and sustained international success, they helped open doors for future generations of Latin artists.

Their story comes to life in "On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan," presented by Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical. The musical runs on weekends from July 10 to Aug. 2 at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell Center, Makati. Featuring many of Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine's biggest hits, the production promises a lively mix of music, storytelling, and vibrant choreography.

Screenshot

Alternating in the role of Gloria are Molly Langley and Kayla Rivera, both bringing vocal power and stage charisma to the production. Portraying Emilio is Cuban-American actor Jason Canela, who reprises a role he previously played during the Miami premiere of "On Your Feet!" He was also the first actor of Cuban descent to portray Emilio in that production.

Canela's connection to the material goes beyond the stage. Having met Gloria and Emilio Estefan in Miami and counting them among his friends, he brings a unique level of authenticity to the role.

Screenshot

The production is directed by Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome. Nunoy van den Burgh handles choreography, Mio Infante serves as scenographer, and Toma Cayabyab oversees vocal supervision. Supporting cast members include Ayen Laurel as Gloria Fajardo, Pinky Marquez as Consuelo Garcia, and John Joven-Uy as Jose Fajardo.  

Audiences can look forward to beloved hits such as "Rhythm Is Gonna Get You," "Conga," "1-2-3," "Don't Wanna Lose You," and "Get On Your Feet."

For younger theatergoers, the musical offers a chance to discover the artists who helped shape modern pop music. For older audiences, it is likely to spark a wave of nostalgia. Either way, "On Your Feet!" makes for an entertaining theater experience filled with memorable songs, energetic performances, and a fascinating chapter of pop music history.