Known for his viral TikTok choreography and regular appearances on ASAP, Ken San Jose is stepping back onto the theater stage, taking on the role of Mark Anthony in the Manila run of the Broadway classic A Chorus Line, produced by Theatre Group Asia and directed by Emmy Award–winning choreographer Karla Puno Garcia.
Mark Anthony is the youngest member of the ensemble, an optimistic first-timer whose talent, humor, and unfiltered enthusiasm bring both heart and levity to the show. The role mirrors Ken’s own journey as a dancer navigating the demands of professional performance.
From Stage Roots to Viral Fame
Although audiences associate Ken with contemporary dance and pop culture platforms like TikTok, he began his training in theater. His foundation resurfaced last year when he appeared in Joseph the Dreamer, performing alongside Sam Concepcion and Gary Valenciano, reigniting his passion for musical theater.
In preparation for A Chorus Line, Ken trained intensively in jazz and ballet to meet the production’s high technical and stamina requirements, ensuring he could deliver both emotionally and physically on stage.
A Broadway Classic, Locally Staged
First premiering on Broadway in 1975, A Chorus Line transformed musical storytelling by centering dancers, their insecurities, sacrifices, and personal histories. The minimalist yet demanding production requires performers to sing, act, and dance at peak levels while maintaining emotional authenticity.
The Manila run brings together local and international talent, including Filipino-American actor Conrad Ricamora, best known for How to Get Away with Murder, and Broadway credits such as Here Lies Love, The King and I, and Little Shop of Horrors.
A Pivotal Moment in Ken’s Career
Portraying Mark Anthony represents both a homecoming and a breakthrough for Ken, allowing him to combine his technical dance skill with emotional and performative depth. Beyond theater, he is set to release new music under Diorama, showcasing his versatility as a multi-hyphenate performer.
For Ken, this season marks a defining chapter: a return to his theatrical roots while boldly expanding his artistic range. With A Chorus Line, upcoming music, and continued engagement across digital platforms, Ken San Jose continues to evolve as a performer whose talent spans dance, theater, and music.
