Unmasking Love with ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change’

Theater

Mar 4

REP brings back the tales of love and relationships with ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change’ musical

Words Yra Luis Gener Gutierrez
Photos courtesy of Repertory Philippines
March 4, 2025

The modern world has somehow conditioned humans to be obsessed with reinvention. This roots from the constant need for one to be perfect–may it be in real life or social media–in ways people become so hyper-aware of their flaws and lapses that they feel afraid to be perceived as humans, capable of failing and yet still worthy of love despite it all.

Repertory Philippines (REP) brings back its musical comedy, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Known as the longest-running off-Broadway show, this two-act romantic musical explores modern romance, nuances of relationships, social media, and dating apps.

The musical has been nominated and cited for multiple prestigious awards including 13 from Gawad Buhay Awards and two Aliw Awards, one of which is Best Musical Play.

Complexities Of Love And Relationships

The restaging of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change was reimagined by the First Lady of Philippine Musical Theater, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo. It brings fresh energy with a book and lyrics by the award-winning Joe DiPietro and music by renowned composer Jimmy Brooks. This charming musical explores the highs and lows of love in modern times, where the quest for perfection and optimization often shapes our relationships.

With a talented cast featuring Gian Magdangal, Gabby Padilla, Krystal Kane, and Marvin Ong, along with swings Davy Narciso and Barbara Jance, the musical captures the various stages of a relationship—from the awkwardness of first dates to the challenges of marriage and the complexities of long-term commitment.

Love and Genuine Connections Still Prevail

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change features twenty vignettes that delve into “everything you’ve ever secretly thought about dating, romance, marriage, lovers, husbands, wives, and in-laws—but were too afraid to admit.” Yet, through it all, the musical underscores a powerful message: “Amidst the chaos, love and genuine connections still prevail.”

The vignettes explore relatable moments, such as the hopeful anticipation before a first date in ‘I Will Be Loved Tonight,’ a woman in midlife navigating the world of online dating in ‘The Very First Dating Video of Rose Ritz,’ and the blossoming romance between senior citizens in ‘I Can Live With That.’

This romantic comedy musical brings together a talented team of Filipino creatives, including Cara Barredo as assistant director, Ejay Yatco as musical director, Joey Mendoza as set and costume designer, Meliton Roxas Jr. as lighting designer, Aji Manalo as sound designer, and Neo Rivera as graphic designer, all contributing to the telling of a timeless love story in the modern world.

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change is a celebration of love in all its messy, chaotic glory—the miscommunications, the desire to be chosen, the longing to be understood, and the push and pull of dating. Yet, at its core, the musical reminds audiences that love endures, despite it all.