KD Estrada. HandoutMANILA -- KD Estrada will headline “Bagets The Musical” as Arnel, the polished teen first portrayed by Raymond Lauchengco in the 1984 film classic.
The 2026 stage production, running Jan. 23 to March at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, casts Estrada in the role alternating with Ethan David, a member of the P-pop group G.A.T.
For Estrada, the character feels like a natural fit. “When I auditioned, my number one pick was Arnel because I see myself in him,” he said.
The Kapamilya actor said he relates to Arnel’s balance of charm and hesitance, noting the teen’s ability to resist peer pressure while still struggling with whether to follow his own dreams or meet others’ expectations.
This marks Estrada’s second theater outing after his debut in “Walang Aray” with screen partner Alexa Ilacad. He has also appeared in TV series such as “Unloving You,” “Bola Bola,” “Run to Me” and “Pira-pirasong Paraiso.”
Ethan David. HandoutMeanwhile, David, whose credits also includes TV dramas “Seducing Drake Palma” and “Ang Mutya ng Section E,” brings his own energy to the role. He sees Arnel as “always all-out for his friends,” and has embraced the physical and vocal challenges of the stage to capture that spirit.
Together, Estrada and David promise to highlight Arnel’s charm, conflicts and courage, ensuring the character’s story of friendship and self-discovery resonates with a new generation.
Joining them in the lead cast are Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez as Gilbert, and Milo Cruz and Migo Valid as Tonton.
“Bagets The Musical” is directed by Maribel Legarda with a book by J-mee Katanyag and music by Vince Lim.