How Gen Z Atasha Muhlach plans to bring '70s Annie Batungbakal to life

Atasha Muhlach said extensive research and a commitment to giving her all are helping her prepare to portray the title role in the upcoming “Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical.”

The musical, inspired by the songs of the iconic Filipino band Hotdog, reimagines the beloved character Annie Batungbakal, who was immortalized by late National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor in the 1979 film of the same name.

Although she belongs to Gen Z, Muhlach said she found it easy to appreciate the fashion and culture of the 1970s while preparing for the role.

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“It feels great because, to be honest, especially for Gen Z, fashion trends always come back. For example, Y2K, and just like this, the ‘70s with flared pants. I’ve worn flared pants too,” she told reporters during a press conference on Tuesday, July 7.

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“There’s always a beauty in the styling of the ’70s because it embodies the silhouettes, the shapes and the fondness for disco. Every movement has shape and movement. It paints a story,” she added.

READ: Sam Concepcion, KD Estrada join ‘The Annie Batungbakal Musical’ cast

To understand her character, Muhlach said she immersed herself in research and the music that inspired the production.

“To be honest, it took a lot of studying, a lot of research, and of course listening to the Hotdog songs,” she said. “Her whole storyline is in the song ‘Annie Batungbakal.’ Because of Hotdog and their classic songs, I have the opportunity to paint my own version of Annie Batungbakal.”

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Muhlach also watched the original “Annie Batungbakal” film as part of her preparation but noted that the stage adaptation has a different creative direction.

“As part of my learnings, yes, I watched the movie. But our director said we’re honoring the band and their songs, so that’s our focus,” she explained.

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The role also marks Muhlach’s return to the theater 15 years after appearing as one of the Von Trapp children in “The Sound of Music” at Newport.

“For me, it’s such a full-circle moment. It’s very humbling and heartwarming, and I’m so grateful because this is an opportunity I don’t want to take for granted,” she said.

She recalled being emotional after reuniting with theater staff who remembered her from her childhood production.

“It feels like, ‘Welcome back home.’ Seeing the same staff from when I was a kid and hearing them say, ‘Welcome back,’ was so touching,” she said.

Taking on a role famously portrayed by Nora Aunor comes with pressure, Muhlach admitted, but she said she is focused on preparation rather than expectations.

“Until now, I’m still handling the pressure. I have no expectations about the outcome. I just know that I’ll give my 100 percent. There are no shortcuts. I’ll attend every rehearsal, do the extra work, and I won’t take any of these moments for granted,” she said.

Asked if she is ready for the physically demanding production, Muhlach answered confidently: “Ready! If there’s an opportunity like this, I’ll do whatever is needed. I take care of my fitness and my health, and during rehearsals, I can see that I can do it.”

Atasha, who’s the daughter of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales, also credited her family for keeping her grounded throughout the process.

“My parents always give me pep talks. They always remind me to keep my feet grounded. They’re so proud of me and they encourage me to continue chasing my dreams,” she said.

She added that her twin brother, Andres Muhlach, who previously appeared in “Bagets: The Musical,” has also been supportive. “He told me, ‘Kaya mo ‘yan,’ and he’s very, very proud of me,” she said.

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Aside from Atasha, the musical also features KD Estrada, Sam Concepcion, Jeff Moses, Anthony Rosaldo, Jackie Lou Blanco and John Lapus, among others. /ra