9 Works Theatrical has announced that Cuban-American actor Jason Canela will join the Manila production of On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan.
He will take on the role of music visionary Emilio Estefan when the musical opens on July 10, 2026, at Rockwell Center, Makati.
Photos: Charles Villaruz
Best known for his work across television, film, and theater, he has appeared in major productions including Apple TV+’s Palm Royale, ABC’s The Rookie, FOX’s Pitch, and CBS’s The Young and the Restless, where he made history as the first Latinx actor cast in a contract role during the show’s then 45-year run. He is also widely recognized across Spanish-language television for his performances in Telemundo’s ¿Dónde Está Elisa? and Univision’s Cosita Linda.
But among his many roles, Emilio Estefan remains one of his most personal.
Canela previously portrayed Emilio in the acclaimed Miami regional premiere of On Your Feet!, becoming the first Cuban actor to play the legendary producer and music executive on stage.
Returning to the role six years later, Canela brings a completely new evolution to the character. Now a father, he approaches Emilio’s protective, visionary drive with a profound new emotional maturity and life experience, perfectly capturing a man who refused to let anyone else dictate his outcome.
“This story isn’t something I had to search far for—it’s in my DNA. It is my story, too,” shares Canela. “To honor Gloria and Emilio and tell the story of the most iconic Cubans to step off the island means the world to me. It’s because of their grit and vision that doors were opened to bring our sound and culture to the global mass market.”
Photo: 9 Works Theatrical
At the center of On Your Feet! is the remarkable journey of Gloria and Emilio Estefan—from their early days in Miami to their rise as global music icons whose influence transformed Latin music forever. Set to a soundtrack of beloved hits including “Conga,” “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” “1-2-3,” and “Get on Your Feet,” the musical celebrates ambition, perseverance, family, and the power of believing in a dream.
For Canela, the music remains one of the show’s greatest strengths.
While he loves the infectious energy of “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” he notes that audiences will also discover a different side of the Estefans through songs such as “Don’t Wanna Lose You” and “I Just Wanna See Your Smile”—moments that reveal the heart behind the global success.
Joining him are Molly Langley and Kayla Rivera, who alternate in the role of Gloria Estefan. Both acclaimed performers have earned recognition for their standout work in musical theater, bringing exceptional vocal talent, charisma, and emotional depth to the iconic role.
Opposite Canela, they help bring the Estefans’ extraordinary journey to life, creating a dynamic onstage partnership that captures both the passion behind their music and the enduring strength of their love story.
Photo: Charles Villaruz
As he prepares to share Emilio Estefan’s story with Filipino audiences, Canela is equally excited to experience the Philippines for the first time. Having recently arrived in the country, he has already embraced the warmth of Filipino hospitality, sharing that the people, culture, and food have quickly made Manila feel like home.
On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan will run on all weekends, from July 10 until August 2, 2026, at 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, at the Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Center in Makati City.
Tickets are now available at TicketWorld outlets, online, and at the Power Plant Mall Cinema.
For more information, updates, partnerships, and bulk-buying inquiries, follow Proscenium Theater and 9 Works Theatrical on Facebook and Instagram @ProsceniumTheater and @9WorksTheatrical.
ALSO READ: Get Ready: “On Your Feet!” Hits the Manila Stage This July
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