A woman as Apolinario Mabini: Shai Opsimar on why the hero's story still needs retelling

What happens when one of the Philippines' most revered revolutionary thinkers is portrayed by a woman?

That question takes on new meaning this Women's Month as theater actor Shaira Opsimar steps into the role of Apolinario Mabini in the restaging of "Mabining Mandirigma: A Steampunk Musical," now running at the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Tanghalang Ignacio Jimenez.

Originally staged in 2015 and recognized with 12 Gawad Buhay Awards, the musical returns for its 10th anniversary, offering a fresh and more intimate staging of Mabini's story—blending history, music, and striking steampunk visuals.

The casting choice has become a defining feature of the production. Over the years, five women have portrayed Mabiniin the musical, emphasizing the revolutionary leader's intellect and moral conviction rather than physical likeness.

For Opsimar, taking on the role of the "Brains of the Revolution" was both an honor and a challenge.

"Well, first that, being a man. Pangalawa is 'yung disability niya kasi he couldn't walk because of polio," she told GMA News Online in a quick interview. 

(Second is his disability because he couldn't walk due to polio.)

"Pangatlo, I wouldn't say I'm a really, really smart woman. Eh siya, sobrang intelligent na kind of man. So parang 'yun 'yung added pressure also," she added.

(Third, I wouldn't say I'm a very, very smart woman. He was an extremely intelligent man, so that added pressure.)

Even the music posed a challenge, she said, referring to the musical's score by Joed Balsamo. Opsimar said the demanding score required constant preparation.

Why Mabini's story still resonates

Beyond the performance, Opsimar said that the musical aims to spark reflection among audiences, particularly younger Filipinos.

She said the themes of the production remain strikingly relevant today.

"Sabi nga kanina, very relevant itong show na ito. Kasi cliché 'yung magsabi, but history repeats itself. And 'yung mga monsters natin ngayon and noon, nag-iiba lang sila ng anyo, pero same lang pa rin 'yung mga nangyayari."

(As mentioned earlier, this show is very relevant. It may sound cliché, but history repeats itself. The 'monsters' we face now and before only change form, but the same things keep happening.)

Opsimar expressed hope that the musical would encourage audiences to become more aware of social and political issues.

A message for women

Performing the role during Women's Month also carries a message of empowerment, Opsimar said.

"And may ma-ignite na apoy in their hearts. And to act on it. Manindigan. 'Wag matakot manindigan," she said.

(That a fire will be ignited in their hearts—and that they will act on it. Stand up. Don't be afraid to stand up.)"

She also urged women not to tolerate disrespect.

"'Wag kayong papabastos, 'wag kayong papayag na maliitin lang kayo ng kung sino man. And don't let other people, especially men, objectify you. You're more than that," Opsimar added.

(Do not allow yourselves to be disrespected or belittled by anyone.)

Written by Nicanor Tiongson, with music by Joed Balsamo and direction by Chris Millado, "Mabining Mandirigma: A Steampunk Musical" reimagines Philippine history through a bold theatrical style that integrates projection and video design into its storytelling.

The production runs at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio Jimenez until March 29. —MGP, GMA Integrated News