Community Event: Hard Candy brings high-energy male revue to Guam
By Jacqueline Guzman
Dance, athleticism, showmanship and a little temptation will take center stage at the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa on Oct. 16, when Hard Candy: A Well “Lei'd” Male Revue presents two performances featuring professional entertainers from Hawaiʻi and beyond.
Presented by Under the Wig Productions and Hit Radio 100 in collaboration with Trident Entertainment Hawaiʻi, the show combines ensemble choreography, individual performances, theatrical staging and audience interaction.
During a press conference at the Hilton, producer Travis Duenas, founder of Under the Wig Productions, said the production reflects careful selection of talent, extensive rehearsal and collaboration among performers with varied backgrounds.
A Guam native based in Hawaiʻi, Duenas said bringing professional entertainment to his home island holds special significance.
The cast includes entertainers experienced in musical theater, ballet, jazz, hip-hop and other dance disciplines. Performer Richard Green, who has a musical theater background, cited choreographer Bob Fosse among his influences and described choreography as a discipline requiring precision and showmanship.
Performers Daddy Dorian and Ryder emphasized the collaborative process, explaining that group routines incorporate each dancer's creativity while individual performances showcase distinct styles and personalities.
Although the production draws inspiration from popular male revues such as Magic Mike, organizers stressed that Hard Candy offers a theatrical entertainment experience rather than a conventional strip show.
Entertainment for Guam audiences
The press conference also addressed whether Guam audiences are ready for a production that challenges traditional expectations of island nightlife.
Duenas pointed to the success of an earlier production in February as evidence of interest in different forms of live entertainment.
He also announced the addition of a Guam-based choreographer and dancer to the production, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for local talent.
Organizers said the show welcomes couples, groups of friends and anyone looking for a different kind of night out.
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Dorian encouraged prospective audience members who might feel shy or hesitant to attend, emphasizing that the performers prioritize safety, comfort and entertainment. Audience interaction will be part of the experience, with participation guided by individual comfort levels.
Internationally recognized drag entertainer Fantasia Royale Gaga will serve as mistress of ceremonies for both performances.
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Fantasia won Season 1 of OUTtv's Hot Haus and competed on Season 5 of The Boulet Brothers' Dragula. She brings more than two decades of entertainment experience to the production.
During the press conference, Fantasia said her approach to hosting emphasizes audience participation, humor and creating memorable experiences. She will introduce the performers and guide audiences through the evening's choreographed numbers and individual showcases.
Hard Candy will be presented in the Hilton's Micronesian Ballroom, with Unzipped at 6 p.m. and Stripped at 8:30 p.m. Both performances feature the same cast and core production. An official afterparty will follow the second performance at the Tree Bar at the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa.Tickets and additional information are available at www.utwproductions.com.
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