As the musical on the life story of Latin Pop idol Gloria Estefan makes its stage debut in Manila this year, theater actress Kayla Rivera could not pass up on the chance to portray the artist known for iconic global hit songs like ‘Conga,’ ‘Anything For You,’ and ’Rhythm is Gonna Get You.’ Kayla told PUSH ABS-CBN in an exclusive interview what a career milestone it is to be playing the role of the multi-awarded Grammy winner.
“It truly felt like an answered prayer. I auditioned for Gloria back in November and hadn’t heard anything since, so I didn’t know if the opportunity was still possible. I just prayed that if it was meant for me, it would happen, and I thank God that it did! This is also my 10th show and lead role in theater, so marking this milestone by playing someone as special as Gloria Estefan is beyond a dream come true. I’m incredibly grateful to 9Works Theatrical and the Rockwell Proscenium Theater group for believing in me and trusting me with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she said.
In 2019, Kayla played her first American music icon Carole King in the Atlantis production Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This year, she is feels blessed to get another big opportunity in On Your Feet!
“It’s not every day that you get to step into the shoes of a living legend! I’m honored that this is my second time portraying an incredible woman who helped shape the music of her generation. What makes this role different, beyond the dancing and celebratory energy, is the beautiful love story between Gloria and Emilio. We see the power of having a supportive partner beside you through life’s highs and lows. I relate to that more than ever after getting married last July. I’m so grateful to have the support of my family, my husband Miguel, and his family. Like Gloria and Emilio’s love, that kind of love is freeing. It gives you confidence, encourages you to believe in yourself, and pushes you to excel. I’ve also loved discovering the incredible woman behind the performer. Gloria’s strength and resilience are so inspiring. Whenever I need motivation, I remind myself that she overcame unimaginable challenges and came out stronger. If she could push forward, so can I,” she explained.
READ: EXCLUSIVE: Kayla Rivera reveals reason for stepping back from being a radio deejay
Even though she was not yet born when Gloria’s biggest hits came out on the airwaves, Kayla shared why she is very familiar with the Cuban-American artist’s music while growing up and performing in Canada.
“When I was 13 and performing with The Young Canadians School of Performing Arts in Calgary, my first-ever assigned solo was Gloria Estefan’s ‘1-2-3.’ Being given a solo meant so much to me, and I remember having so much fun singing and dancing to its infectious beat. Now, getting to portray Gloria herself feels like such a full-circle moment. It’s sincerely a dream come true and one of those moments when I feel like I’m making 13-year-old Kayla proud,” she shared.
READ: EXCLUSIVE: Kayla Rivera returns to theater in 'Joseph the Dreamer' musical
With today’s generation not as familiar with the highly successful career of the Estefans, Kayla believes that even the younger music lovers will enjoy discovering their story and their music through this production.
“I think Gloria and Emilio Estefan, together with Miami Sound Machine, were after something much bigger than simply making music. They embraced their Latin roots, celebrated being bilingual, and believed their unique sound could cross over into mainstream pop. Despite the resistance they faced, they stayed authentic and helped open doors for the Latin artists we love today. Gloria’s heartfelt writing, catchy melodies, and infectious rhythms bring people together to celebrate, dance, and feel something deeply. Even her ballads are incredibly sincere and powerful. Her legacy reminds us that when you believe deeply in your dream and surround yourself with people who believe in it too, you cannot allow rejection to stop you. You keep pushing forward until that dream becomes a reality,” she explained.
READ: Cuban-American actor Jason Canela is excited to star in 'On Your Feet!' musical in Manila
Watch Kayla Rivera and Molly Langley who will alternate in the role of Latin pop icon Gloria Estefan, along with Jason Canela as Emilio Estefan, Ayen Laurel as Gloria's mother, Gloria Fajardo; Pinky Marquez as her grandmother, Consuelo Garcia; John Joven Uy as her father, Jose Fajardo; Vien King as Young Jose Fajardo; Jani Magadia as her sister, Rebecca Fajardo; and Anyah de Guzman as Rebecca Fajardo. Directed by Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome and choreography by Nunoy van den Burgh, tickets for On Your Feet! are now available on TicketWorld outlets and online, and at the Power Plant Mall Cinema.