Congratulations to Marvin Ong (06) who is currently earning raves in his role as the boy helper of Mrs. Lovett in the Repertory production of Sweeney Todd.

In the Inquirer review, Gibbs Cadiz cites  Marvin’s superb Tobias and describes him as ” a young actor making his professional debut in this production,  [who] lends the show a warm, heart-clutching moment with a beautifully sung “Not While I’m Around.”The Manila Bulletin’s Joycelyn Valle was equally appreciative. “Marvin Ong as Tobias earns the respect of the audience especially towards the end of the musical. He is endearing in his rendition of “Nothing’s Gonna Harm You.” In the Daily Tribune, Edgar Cruz reported, “Marvin amazed the audience when he sang the vocally challenging song.”

He already impressed the entertainment media during the press launch. Manila Bulletin’s Crispina Martinez Belen dubbed him the new “Mr. Golden Voice.” Veteran showbiz writer/music critic Ernie Pecho said, “At long last, here is the voice and genuine talent we have long been waiting for.” Another respected writer, Ronald Constantino of Tempo added: “Well, Marvin has that very rare golden voice.”

In the press interview, Marvin said, “I actually started singing in family affairs when I was only five years old,” Marvin recounts. “I won in a school (Xavier) singing contest when I was 9. The next year, I was already in demand for professional engagements.” He is focusing on finishing his first solo album, as step towards entering the the mainstream music scene. “This album is one of my pet projects at the moment,” Marvin declares. “I’m including at least two of my own compositions in the package, and we hope to release it early 2010.”

Perhaps the best tribute comes from one of the country’s best singers. In her column “Backstory,” Broadway superstar Lea Salonga is simply rapturous. “It’s always a moment to remember when someone unknown puts on a performance so brave and daring that it makes you jump out of your seat. That’s what I experienced watching Marvin.  His Tobias was consistent, and his vocal prowess amazing. This is a character with a slow and simple mind, and Marvin mined it for all it was worth, all the way to the end. I look forward to his future performances. From this very grateful member of the audience, Bravo!”

Marvin is set to graduate next year from the Ateneo de Manila with a degree in Communication Arts. Rep’s “Sweeney Todd” runs until Dec. 13 at Onstage Greenbelt 1.