Belle Mariano makes history as the singer of “Anong Daratnan,” the Filipino rendition of “Beyond” from Moana 2

FILIPINO actress and singer Belle Mariano has been revealed as the voice behind “Anong Daratnan”, the Filipino rendition of “Beyond,” the end-credit single for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ highly anticipated sequel, Moana 2.

This marks the first time a Filipino song will be featured in a Disney animated film, creating a monumental milestone for both Disney and the Philippines.

The original English version, “Beyond”, was penned by Grammy® Award-winning songwriters Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, known for their evocative storytelling through music. The song captures Moana’s adventurous spirit as she seeks connections beyond her island’s shores. While the English track is already streaming globally, “Anong Daratnan,” performed by Belle Mariano, will debut on November 22, 2024.

Belle Mariano, a celebrated figure in the Filipino entertainment scene, expressed her gratitude for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity:

“Sobrang grateful ko kasi dream ko maka-work ang Disney. (I feel so grateful because it’s my dream to work with Disney.) Moana is one of my favorite Disney characters, and I’m really emulating her fearlessness in my rendition of this song.”

Her heartfelt connection to Moana’s character resonates deeply in her performance, embodying the courage and determination that define Disney’s beloved Polynesian heroine.

Rachel Fong, Studio General Manager and Integrated Marketing Director of The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia, emphasized the importance of collaborating with local artists like Belle:

“By collaborating with local talents like Belle for Moana 2, we hope fans in the Philippines resonate deeply with the beautiful lyrics of ‘Beyond’, and experience Moana’s excitement as she embarks on a new voyage to explore the far seas of Oceania.”

Set three years after the original, Moana 2 promises another epic adventure with Moana (voiced by Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson). The duo teams up with a diverse crew of seafarers to explore treacherous, uncharted waters in Oceania. After receiving a mysterious call from her ancestors, Moana sets out on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and courage.

Key Highlights:

Expanded Voice Cast: Includes Rachel House, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, and newcomer Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda as Moana’s adorable little sister, Simea.

Creative Team: Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, and written by Jared Bush and Miller.

Music: Features the work of Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy® nominee Opetaia Foa‘i, and three-time Grammy® winner Mark Mancina.

Mark Your Calendar

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana 2 sails into theaters on November 27, 2024. Before the film’s release, fans in the Philippines can revel in the beauty of “Anong Daratnan” starting November 22, bringing a piece of the Disney magic home.

(ROHN ROMULO)