It reminds us of the importance of family, the joy of reconnecting, and the beauty of finding love and understanding in unexpected places.
The holidays are a mix of love, family, and chaos—exactly what Going Home to Christmas: A Jose Mari Chan Musical brings to life on stage. Set in the bustling Liberty Airline on Christmas Eve, this heartwarming production from Repertory Philippines turns an all-too-familiar setting into a touching celebration of everything that makes the season special.
An airport as the heart of Christmas chaos
The story unfolds in the microcosm of Liberty Airline, where the frenzy of delayed flights and last-minute homecomings set the stage for overlapping stories of connection and reflection. Tempers flare, relationships are tested, and long-overdue conversations happen, all while the audience watches these moments unfold like pieces of a holiday puzzle coming together.
The setup brings to mind Love Actually, but with a distinctly Filipino twist. It’s full of things we know so well: balikbayans, the shared frustration of travel delays, and the unavoidable soundtrack of Christmas in Our Hearts playing everywhere (with the musical even poking fun at this Filipino holiday staple).
Related story: Why the Jose Mari Chan musical ‘Going Home to Christmas’ is a subversive must-watch
Stories that feel like ours
What makes Going Home to Christmas so compelling is how real its characters feel. They’re people we see every day, or maybe even versions of ourselves. A father and son awkwardly try to bond as they head home to their family. A balikbayan reconnects with her roots through her talkative niece. And a janitor moves quietly through the chaos, bridging moments with humor and wisdom.
Of course, love stories are at the heart of it all. From young romance to rekindled sparks, from long-distance relationships to the realities of married life, the musical doesn’t hold back in exploring the many ways love can evolve. Every story feels authentic and deeply human.
Related story: Noche Buena: The ‘good night’ to end all good nights
The timeless charm of Jose Mari Chan’s songs
No production about Christmas in the Philippines would be complete without Jose Mari Chan’s music. His songs, like A Perfect Christmas, Beautiful Girl, and Please Be Careful With My Heart, seamlessly tie the characters’ stories together. Each piece is a perfect match for the emotions of its scene, whether it’s a joyful reunion, a quiet moment of reflection, or a bittersweet goodbye.
The musical also brings a playful touch to Chan’s legacy. Some songs are reimagined for humor, while others are sprinkled into the narrative with surprising twists. And yes, even Christmas in Our Hearts gets a tongue-in-cheek nod, proving the show doesn’t take itself too seriously even as it pays tribute to a musical icon.
Related story: Why do some relationships work and others don’t?
A holiday escape
What sets this musical apart is its creative staging. The airport comes alive with souvenir shops, moving props, and a cast that brings the chaos and charm of travel to life. It’s a setting that captures the fast-paced yet magical energy of the holiday season, making it feel both relatable and extraordinary.
In a year full of challenges, Going Home to Christmas feels like the holiday treat we all need. It reminds us of the importance of family, the joy of reconnecting, and the beauty of finding love and understanding in unexpected places.
If you’re looking for a show that will make you laugh, cry, and leave the theater with a full heart, Going Home to Christmas is your best bet. Gather your loved ones and experience the magic, it’s a holiday tradition in the making.
