Vincent Rodriguez III brings powerhouse performance to Manila stage

Vincent Rodriguez III is a powerhouse of energy — like the Energizer Bunny, he never seems to run out of charge. On Thursday, 6 March, the 42-year-old actor, best known for playing the TV-famous Filipino straight guy Josh Chan in CW’s musical comedy Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (2015-2019), treated an all-Filipino audience to his one-man cabaret show at 12 Monkeys in Capitol Commons.

For one night only, Vincent took the stage and seamlessly shifted between performer personas — musical theater singer, magician, boy-band dancer, storyteller and even occasional stand-up comic — proving that he lives to perform.

Before the show, he shared DAILY TRIBUNE that the concept for the performance was born out of his many passions.

“When I was in New York for 11 years pursuing a Broadway career, I knew I had to focus on my strengths. As a kid, I had so many interests, and I always believed there was a way to incorporate them into acting — especially musicals. I’ve developed a habit of following what excites me, and that always pushes me into action and creates opportunities. I’ve had a lot of practice doing that.

“That’s why my show includes many of my hobbies and talents. I don’t think they should just be held onto — I think they should be shared.”

The show was co-produced by Don Michael H. Mendoza, founder and executive producer of DMHM, and Lora Nicolas Olaes, co-producer of Broadway musicals Here Lies Love and SMASH, who also hosted the evening.

Vincent revealed to the audience that he is neurodivergent — someone whose brain processes, learns, or experiences the world in a way that differs from the typical pattern. But if anything, that only fueled the brilliance of his performance.

With his antics, charm and undeniable talent, he commanded the stage, but it was his singing that truly left a mark. He belted out songs with effortless power, his eyes and expressions brimming with passion. The audience erupted into applause after every number, wishing for more.

His vocal prowess was no surprise. Having spent over a decade in New York honing his craft, he became a seasoned Broadway performer and swing — a cast member who covers multiple ensemble roles and is prepared to step in instantly when needed. That kind of discipline and versatility was on full display throughout the night.

He sang and danced to “I’ve Got My Head in the Clouds” from Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and performed selections from Here Lies Love, the disco-pop musical by David Byrne and Fatboy Slim about Imelda Marcos’ rise and fall. Vina Morales, who starred in the show’s New York run, was in the audience, cheering him on. At times, he was joined by Mendoza and Nicolas, making the night feel even more intimate and celebratory.

He closed with a rousing rendition of “I Am What I Am” by Gloria Gaynor, followed by an encore performance of “Child of the Philippines” from Here Lies Love — a fitting tribute to his heritage.

‘The joy of art’

Speaking of his roots, Vincent’s (of Filipino, Spanish and Chinese descent), last visit to Manila was when he was five. Born in San Francisco to Filipino parents, he grew up in Daly City, home to a large Filipino-American community. He has been married to Gregory Wright since 2015.

When DAILY TRIBUNE asked what part of Filipino culture he has always felt connected to, he said: “The joy of art. I know it might sound like a cliché because we all know that Filipinos love karaoke, are incredible singers and are amazing performers. I’ve heard so many talented Filipino cover bands, and it’s striking — almost overwhelming — how deeply embedded music is in our culture.

“But beyond literal music, I think music can be metaphorical. I believe people shouldn’t keep their music — their creativity, their passions — inside them. They should share it. And that’s what I love about Filipino culture. No matter their profession, Filipinos share their talents, their artistry and their creativity. That spirit of collaboration, spontaneity and compassion excites me and makes me incredibly proud to be Filipino.”

The show ran for nearly three hours, yet Vincent’s energy never wavered. His stamina, talent and love for performing were nothing short of inspiring — a masterclass in showmanship.

His advice to aspiring Filipino performers?

“Don’t let someone else define who you are.

“Use your art to discover yourself. Get to know it. Don’t be afraid to feel — no matter how painful it is — because that’s part of the human experience. It’s deeply ingrained in our Filipino identity.”