Elora Españo's journey to the lead role of Emma in the stage adaptation of Jun Robles Lana's Anino Sa Likod ng Buwan is a story of perseverance, faith, and the sweet taste of second chances. Set to premiere at the PETA Theater Center in March 2025, this production by IdeaFirst Live, the performance arm of The IdeaFirst Company, marks a significant milestone in Españo's career.

Ten years ago, fresh out of college, Españo auditioned for the same role in the film version of Anino. "I was so nervous," she recounts, "seeing all the celebrities at the audition. I couldn't even do the reading properly. I knew I didn't deserve the part then."

The experience, though disappointing, didn't deter her.

When the stage adaptation was announced in early 2024, Españo felt a renewed sense of purpose. She contacted her manager, Ferdinand Lapuz, and expressed her desire to audition again. Despite the open auditions attracting numerous hopefuls, Españo's audition felt different this time.

"I felt relaxed compared to 2014," she shares. "I enjoyed working with my fellow auditionees."

After several callbacks, however, Españo received the news she hadn't hoped for: she didn't get the role. Though heartbroken, she was happy for her friend, Kate Alejandrino, who was cast as Emma. Españo channeled her energy into her work with the NCCA for the Frankfurt Buchmesse.

Then, a week later, while in Germany, a call from Director Jun Robles Lana changed everything. He offered her the role of Emma. "I was shocked, excited, and a little scared," Españo admits. "But ultimately, I'm grateful. It made me realize, 'Kung para talaga sa'yo, para talaga sa'yo' — if it's meant for you, it's meant for you, in God's time."

Españo recalls watching the film version in 2015. "I remember the uneasiness I felt," she says. While the specifics are hazy, the emotional impact of the story remained. She acknowledges that the stage version, under the direction of Gawad Buhay awardee Tuxqs Rutaquio, will offer a different interpretation.

Regarding the play's sensitive content, including nudity and sex scenes, Españo anticipates a powerful impact on stage. "The sex scenes are pivotal for the power play and politics of the characters," she explains. "In theater, it will feel more intense because it's live, right in front of you. It's voyeuristic."

Españo approaches the production with an open heart and a focus on the process. "No expectations," she says. "I just enjoy rehearsals and collaborating with everyone." She expresses deep gratitude for her co-stars, Martin del Rosario and Ross Pesigan, Director Rutaquio, creative consultant Elmer Gatchalian, and the entire "Anino" team, including the understudies and The IdeaFirst Company. "Everyone is so fun to work with," she adds. "I enjoy discovering Emma and rediscovering myself."

Españo's journey has been shaped by mentors like Director Rutaquio, National Artist Tony Mabesa, Nonie and Shamaine Buencamino, and Angeli Bayani. She credits Bayani and Meisner Studio Manila for helping her rediscover her passion for acting after a period of post-pandemic depression. "I feel more assured and confident now," she says, "embracing my uniqueness as an actress."

"Anino sa Likod ng Buwan," set against the backdrop of the 1990s Philippine military conflict, explores complex relationships, love, betrayal, and political intrigue. Españo's journey to the role of Emma mirrors the play's themes of resilience and the power of human connection. Audiences can witness her compelling performance and experience the gripping story live at the PETA Theater Center from 1-23 March 2025.