Broadway’s “Here Lies Love” is an immersive musical that showcases the incredible talent of actor and singer Arielle Jacobs. Her chilling and full-throttle performance as Imelda Marcos, the first lady of the Philippines, is a must-see. The show features an all-Filipino cast and offers a raucous dance party experience.
Jacobs acknowledges that some audience members may leave the theater feeling conflicted or even fearful of the content. The story of Imelda Marcos, who caused damage and trauma to her people and country, is a weighty one to take on. However, Jacobs believes that the show serves as a cautionary tale and hopes it opens up healing and conversation. She encourages families and friends to address topics they may have been avoiding.
With a disco-pop score by David Byrne and Fatboy Slim, “Here Lies Love” tells the real-life story of Imelda’s rise to power and the decline of the Philippines’ economy under her and her husband’s overspending. The show also delves into the imposition of Martial Law and the human rights abuses that occurred during their regime.
The concept album for “Here Lies Love” was first released in 2010 and later staged at the Public Theater in New York. Tony-winning director Alex Timbers is bringing the show to Broadway with Jacobs in the lead role. Jacobs auditioned for the 2013 production but didn’t get the part at that time. However, she feels that now is the right time for her to portray Imelda, as she has grown into the role.
Playing Imelda gives Jacobs the opportunity to shine a light on her Filipino heritage. Her maternal grandfather was a Filipino scout for the U.S. Army during World War II, and Jacobs feels a deep connection to her roots. She sees “Here Lies Love” as an important platform for Filipino stories to be shared and hopes the success of the show will open doors for more representation.
Jacobs delivers showstopping performances in “Here Lies Love,” with her renditions of the title song and “Why Don’t You Love Me?” standing out. She goes through 19 costume changes and, thanks to innovative set design and sound technology, is able to perform beyond the stage itself.
While some may compare “Here Lies Love” to “Evita,” Jacobs believes the show is closer in spirit to Lady Macbeth. The show ends on a forward-thinking note that addresses the current sociopolitical climate, with the reminder that democracy is at risk worldwide. Jacobs wants audiences to experience the loss and regaining of democracy, as a reflection of the real-life events in the Philippines.
In addition to her work in “Here Lies Love,” Jacobs and her husband are launching a wellness company called The Sanctivia. It focuses on mental and physical fitness and is based in New York. Jacobs also hopes to venture into voiceover work for animated characters, following in the footsteps of other musical performers.
Overall, Jacobs feels a deep connection to “Here Lies Love” and the impact it has on audiences. She believes that the storytelling helps people connect with their own lives, and she is thrilled to be a part of it.
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