KD Estrada takes the lead in 'Bongga Ka, ’Day! The Annie Batungbakal Musical'

KD Estrada is heading back to the stage after being cast in "Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical," bringing his singing and acting chops to one of the most anticipated Filipino musicals of the year.

The announcement was made by NWR Musicals on Wednesday, June 10, and was later confirmed by the actor-singer himself on social media.

According to the production’s description, KD will play Burn, a down-to-earth folk-rock singer in his mid-20s who mainly performs cover songs but dreams of making it big with his own original music. He is determined for a breakthrough while balancing his financial stability and his passion.

“Witness his story unfold in the most bongga dance musical of the year,” the production company teased. Burn’s journey will be explored in this disco-themed musical, which features groovy, iconic hits from Hotdog.

The musical’s male leads have been previously announced. Sam Concepcion, Jeff Moses, and Anthony Rosaldo will alternate in playing Romer Pasion. Jeff also showed support for KD online, commenting, “Lezgooo @kdestrada.” 

KD, 24, and Jeff, 26, previously worked together in “Bagets: The Musical,” where KD played Arnel and Jeff played Topee, making their casting a reunion of sorts.  Both Sam and Anthony also bring strong experience in musical theater. 

NWR Musicals recently staged "Bagets: The Musical," which ran at the Newport Performing Arts Theater early this year. KD later confirmed on social media his involvement in "Bongga," sharing a first look at his character and production photos. In anticipation of the show, he also wrote, “see you again, newport.”

The titular role of Annie has not yet been officially confirmed, though fans have speculated that the role will go to Atasha Muhlach, the daughter of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales. Others have also expressed interest in seeing actress Ashtine Olviga in the role.

"Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical" is  inspired by the classic film "Annie Batungbakal,"  with the late National Artist for Film Nora Aunor as Annie.