David Ezra channels his rock roots as Mike Hanopol in ‘Jeproks: The Musical’

“Super na-excite ako. Super thankful.” That was David Ezra’s reaction when he was offered the role of rock icon Mike Hanopol in Jeproks: The Musical—a production that celebrates the golden era of Pinoy rock through the music of one of its trailblazing pioneers.

“Masaya ako, sobra,” David shared during an interview at the press conference for the musical. “Kasi ‘yung roots ko talaga sa singing and sa pagtugtog—sa pagiging instrumentalist—is also rock. Guitarista din kasi ako ng rock band noong college ako. So, naghihintay na ako, matagal na, ng isang musical na pwedeng ma-showcase ‘yung rock influences ko.”

David Ezra, son of Asia’s Timeless Diva Dulce, is stepping into a role that not only excites him but connects deeply with his own musical background. Following a Best Supporting Actor nomination for his performance in the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival entry Isang Himala, David is ready to take on another demanding role.

Jeproks: The Musical—presented by Tanghalang Una Obra, The Hammock Production Inc., and Twin Bill Theater—draws its title from Hanopol’s iconic hit “Laki sa Layaw (Jeproks),” a song that became an anthem of its time. As one of the founding members of the Juan Dela Cruz Band, Hanopol helped define a generation of Filipino rock, and the musical promises to honor that legacy with several of his greatest hits.

Though David didn’t grow up during the heyday of Hanopol and the Juan Dela Cruz Band, their influence was always present.

“…I wasn’t born in that era. Pinanganak ako late ’80s. Pero I’m very familiar with Juan Dela Cruz Band and Mike Hanopol. Siyempre ‘yung ‘Laki Sa Layaw’ na song, baby pa ako naririnig ko na ‘yon lagi,” he said.

“Pero hindi naman siya magiging mahirap for me, I think, because siyempre Mike Hanopol and Juan Dela Cruz Band are icons and pillars of the rock industry in the Philippines. Kumbaga, bilang isang rock fan, meron tayong responsibility and obligation to aralin sila. Kasi sila ‘yung history natin, e. And they deserve to be recognized,” David continued.

With his musical roots, stage experience, and clear admiration for the material, David Ezra is poised to bring something both raw and heartfelt to the stage. Jeproks: The Musical is expected to strike a nostalgic chord with longtime fans while introducing a new generation to the soul of Pinoy rock

The production is set to run this November at the GSIS Theater, located along J.W. Diokno Boulevard in the CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard.