9 Works Theatrical unveils a mythic ensemble for Yemaya

9 Works Theatrical finally pulled back the curtains and revealed the powerhouse cast for its upcoming production, YEMAYA.

Blending seasoned theater titans with sought-after young talents, this production promises to be a visceral exploration of myth, motherhood, and the tides of fate.

The role of Jesus/Mulo will be shared by Tommy Alejandrino and Benedix Ramos.

 

Tommy is an award-winning film and theater actor best known for his portrayal of Amir in the critically acclaimed film ‘The Baseball Player.’ He was also seen in films such as ‘Mallari, ‘GomBurZa,’ ‘Salome’ and ‘Her Locket,’ where his performances earned him several nominations. He studied theater at the Philippine High School for the Arts, where he trained for six years in acting, directing, and dramaturgy.

Benedix is an actor, singer-songwriter, host, and content creator managed by Star Hunt/Star Magic ABS-CBN. He gained fame as a lead in the ‘Better Days’ and as the "Streamboy Apo ng Pangasinan" on ‘Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10: Celebrity Edition.’ In theater, Benedix was last seen in ‘Next To Normal’ and ‘Bar Boys: The Musical.’

He was also part of ‘Tabing Ilog: The Musical.’

Taking on the pivotal role of Maya are Sheena Belarmino and Ness Roque.

 

Sheena is a Star Magic artist-singer, dancer, actress and host-who began her career in reality competitions such as Dance Kids, Tawag ng Tanghalan Kids, and Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids. She debuted as an actress in Lyric and Beat as Melissa. She earned her first Gawad Buhay nomination for Outstanding Female Featured Performance in a Musical for her role as ‘One More Chance The Musical.’ She was last seen in ‘Spring Awakening,’ ‘Next to Normal,’ ‘Tabing Ilog: The Musical,’ and ‘Bar Boys: The Musical.’

Ness is a theater and film actor, performance dramaturg, and educator. She is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in Global Arts-Arts Studies and Curatorial Practices at the Tokyo University of the Arts under the MEXT Scholarship grant. She also studied at the Philippine High School for the Arts, and Tokyo University of the Arts (MA). Her touring productions include ‘Traveling Tongues’ and ’The Window of Spaceship ‘In-Between.’ Her notable performances for film include ‘How to Disappear Completely’ and ‘Now Showing.’ Ness co-founded Salikhain Kolektib, an interdisciplinary arts and research collective.

Anchoring the production and playing the titular role of Yemaya/Inay is the legendary Bituin Escalante.

Bituin’s career spans almost three decades. Her definitive performances onstage have earned her multiple awards, cementing her name as one of Philippine theater’s powerhouses. She won Gawad Buhay Awards for Best Featured Female Performance in Musical Theatre for ‘Himala Isang Musikal’ and ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert,’ Broadwayworld Best Actress awards, and multiple Awit Awards for her recordings. She was last seen on stage in ‘Pingkian: Isang Musikal.’

Veteran actor and director Herbie Go joins Yemaya as Tico.

Herbie is an actor, director and teacher. In 2005, as artistic director of Tanghalang Pilipino, he co-founded the Virgin Labfest. He holds a degree in Theater Arts from the University of the Philippines. He also taught at the Philippine High School for the Arts for more than a decade. His recent performances include ‘About Us But Not About Us,’ ‘Climate in Crazies,’ ‘Shooting Stars,’ and ‘Lamay in Malaya.’

Rounding up the cast are Sheenly Gener who will play Lila, Anthony Falcon who will play Jelin, and Wenah Nagales as cover for Yemaya/Inay.

  

Sheenly is an award-winning actress for the stage, television, commercial, and film. She won Best Supporting Actress for ‘Dormitoryo (Mga Walang Katapusang Kwarto).’ She was also cited for her performance in ‘Insiang.’ She was a full scholar for Theater Arts at the Philippine High School for the Arts and at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (bachelor's degree in Arts Management).

Anthony is a distinguished alum of the Berlinale Talents Acting Studio in Berlin, Germany. He received the prestigious Best Performance Award from the Young Critics Circle Film Desk for his role in ‘Mga Gabing Kasing Haba Ng Hair Ko.’ He showcased his talent as one of the lead actors in ‘Gusto Kita With All My Hypothalamus.’ Anthony has also been a two-time nominee for the Gawad Urian Best Actor award for his performances in ‘Requieme’ and ‘Anino Sa Likod Ng Buwan.’

Wenah is a co-founder of KOLABorador and creates devised performances in unconventional spaces. Most recently, she appeared in ‘Lamay in Malaya.’ She has worked across theater, film, education, hospitality, and advertising for over twenty years, with credits including major resident theater productions at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in the early 2000s, ‘Honor Thy Father,’ ‘Gasping for Air,’ ‘Astro Boo Originals: Door Beneath the Earth,’ ‘Replacing Chef Chico,’ and ‘Pagkapit sa Hangin.’

Yemaya follows a young boy’s epic journey as he traverses the lands and seas in search for his true place in the world. What starts as a wondering of “what if” turns into an adventure of “what could be” in this fantasy-ridden tale of perseverance, hope, and the restless pull of the tides.

Joining the artistic team are Ed Lacson Jr. as director and set designer; Eljay Castro Deldoc as Filipino translator; Teresa Barrozo as music and sound designer; Wika Nadera as assistant set designer and art director; JM Cabling as movement director; Ericson Navarro as costume and prop designer; Jethro Nibaten as lighting designer; Sheik Completado as technical director, Elliza Aurelio as hair and makeup designer, and Lee Morale as photographer.

Heading the 9 Works Theatrical production team is managing director and executive producer Santi Santamaria; with artistic director Robbie Guevara, associate artistic director Mio Infante; operations and finance director Anna Santamaria; production manager Charyl De Guzman; PR managers Jonjon Martin and Loreta Arroyo; marketing managers GM Hernandez and Mariella Laurel; marketing & digital content head Vinz Cantillo; and production stage managers Mara Agleham and Pat Gascon.

YEMAYA will be showing on all weekends from June 13 until July 5, 2026, at 8:00 PM on Fridays, 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, at The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Makati. Tickets are now available on Ticket2Me.net.

For updates, follow 9 Works Theatrical on Facebook and Instagram (@9WorksTheatrical) and on Twitter/X (@9WorksOfficial).

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Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical bring Gloria Estefan's music to Manila with "On Your Feet!"

Turn up the heat this summer with the Southeast Asian premiere of the musical

Get ready to fall in love and dance as Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical bring the musical On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan to Manila this July!

Directed by Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome, and book by Alexander Dinelaris, On Your Feet tells the awe-inspring story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan — two artists whose unwavering belief in each other redefined the American soundscape.

A journey fueled by passion and tested by tragedy, the musical explores the determination and creativity that turned a local band into an international sensation.

This uplifting saga comes to life with a pulse-pounding playlist of the greatest pop hits of a generation including “Anything For You,” “1-2-3,” “Conga,” and “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You.” It’s a celebration of heritage, family, and the music that moved the world.

On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan is a 9 Works Theatrical production, presented by Rockwell. The show will run in July 2026. Tickets and other details will be announced soon.

For more information and updates on On Your Feet!, check out the social media pages of Proscenium Theater (@ProsceniumTheater) and 9 Works Theatrical (@9WorksTheatrical).

On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan is presented through special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide, New York.

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Theater Review: The Bodyguard The Musical

The timeless hits of Whitney Houston find a fresh spotlight in 9 Works Theatrical’s The Bodyguard The Musical, now playing at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati City. For those who grew up with Whitney’s powerful songs, this is more than just a stage production. It is a vibrant, reimagined experience that pays homage to an era while speaking to today’s world.

Christine Allado and Matt Blaker in 9WT's The Bodyguard The Musical

While the original 1992 film is remembered more for its star power than its plot, this adaptation sharpens the story’s edges and updates it with smart, contemporary touches. Modern-day elements like social media, virality, and omnipresent CCTV surveillance are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making the tension more immediate and relatable. It is a thoughtful modernization that does not just retell a classic but reinvents it.

The thrill begins the moment Christine Allado steps on stage as Rachel Marron, opening with a high-octane performance of “Queen of the Night.” Surrounded by stellar backup singers and dancers, Allado commands the stage with a mix of vocal power and star presence. Arnold Trinidad’s jazzy, energetic choreography elevates the spectacle, while her stunning costume changes underscore her status as the ultimate diva of her time.

Christine Allado as Rachel Marron

Matt Blaker brings warmth and wit to the role of Frank Farmer. His portrayal finds the sweet spot between stoic protector and charming lead, with the karaoke bar scene emerging as one of the crowd favorites. While comparisons to Kevin Costner are inevitable, Blaker makes the role entirely his own. He is playful, engaging, and unexpectedly funny.

Matt Blaker as Frank Farmer

A standout of the night is Sheena Palad as Nicki, Rachel’s sister. Her voice soars with emotion in “All at Once,” "Saving All for Love For You" and “Run To You” giving her character a compelling emotional arc that adds depth to the love triangle. Palad’s performance is magnetic and shows that this is not just Rachel’s story but Nicki’s too.

Sheena Palad as Nicki Marron

The production design is a technical triumph. Mio Infante’s scenography transforms the Proscenium stage with seamless precision. Clever use of LED screens, projections, and layered panels creates visual depth and fluid scene transitions. The modern multimedia treatment enhances the show’s contemporary tone without losing its classic soul. You can hardly notice the movement of set pieces, and that is the kind of theatrical magic 9 Works Theatrical consistently delivers.

Equally unforgettable is Vien King’s first major villain role as the stalker. His transformation from matinee idol charm to dangerous menace is both surprising and riveting, marking one of the night’s standout character turns.

Vien King as the Stalker

The ensemble and supporting cast bring the production to life with high energy, vocal strength, and precise execution. Every number feels big and alive, sustaining momentum from start to finish.

In a brief conversation with Director Robbie Guevara and Artistic Director Raul Montesa, I suggested an exciting idea: flashing the lyrics somewhere onstage to encourage the audience to sing along. For a musical built on Whitney Houston’s greatest hits, it is a move that could turn the theater into one big, joyful concert moment.

With its clever modernization, powerhouse performances, and breathtaking technical execution, The Bodyguard The Musical by 9 Works Theatrical is a must-see. It is a dazzling celebration of music, memory, and spectacle that proves Whitney’s legacy remains just as electrifying today as it was in 1992.

The show runs until October 19, 2025. Get your tickets at tinyurl.com/TheBodyguardAtRockwell.

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Rockwell’s Proscenium Theater Builds on its Opening with Two New Shows

Starting September 26, Rockwell’s Proscenium Theater opened with the premiere of The Bodyguard The Musical, staged by 9 Works Theatrical. With its compelling story, music, and choreography, the production gives theatergoers a reason to experience the newly opened venue, where it continues to run until October. Praised by the press as a stellar production with an outstanding cast, it’s a show worth catching—or even revisiting—while it’s on stage.

And Rockwell shows no signs of slowing down. In just the span of three to four months, the Proscenium Theater will banner not one, but three major productions—starting with The Bodyguard and soon followed by two more grand shows. With such a robust lineup in its opening quarter, Rockwell makes clear its vision to keep the year alive with culture and performance, positioning the theater as a vibrant destination for artistry and entertainment.

With its state-of-the-art design and world-class acoustics, the Proscenium Theater provides the ideal stage for some of the Philippines’ most celebrated talents. From the grandeur of its architecture to the intimacy of its performances, the theater stands as both a cultural landmark and a home for Filipino excellence.

The Maestro Takes the Stage
On November 14 and 15, 2025, Rockwell’s Proscenium Theater will proudly present its first concert - the MaestroClass Concert Series by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.

A pillar in Philippine music, Cayabyab has been part of Rockwell’s journey—gracing its events and stages through the years. Now, he makes his debut at the newly opened Proscenium Theater, leading the launch of a series where each concert promises a distinct theme and musical experience. With exciting guest performers to watch out for, this opening night sets the tone for an exhilarating season ahead. Expect a remarkable start as Cayabyab harnesses the theater’s world-class acoustics and Steinway pianos to celebrate Filipino artistry at its finest.

A Rockwell Holiday Tradition Comes Alive
For years, Rockwell Center has stood as a beacon of Christmas cheer with its iconic tree lighting, signature lights, and holiday décor that exudes warmth and creates moments of togetherness that define the season. Beyond being a place to shop and dine, Rockwell has become a true holiday destination.

This December, Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical proudly present the beloved hit musical A Christmas Carol, directed by Robbie Guevara with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens. A spectacular Broadway adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, the production tells the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his ghostly encounters on Christmas Eve. With themes of redemption, family, and generosity, the show captures the holiday spirit at the heart of Rockwell’s traditions.

Running from November to December 2025, A Christmas Carol will mark the Proscenium Theater’s third major show of the year, capping off an excitement-filled season of performances. Perfectly complementing Rockwell’s legacy of making Christmas a cherished experience for all, this timeless classic promises to bring the magic of the holidays to life on the Proscenium stage.

The Curtain Rises on What’s Next

As The Bodyguard continues to light up the stage, Rockwell looks ahead with two more landmark

productions that will define its inaugural season. With MaestroClass and A Christmas Carol

rounding out the year, the Proscenium Theater affirms its place as a new home for Filipino artistry,

global-quality productions, and shared cultural moments. More than just a venue, it stands as

Rockwell’s promise to keep the community inspired, entertained, and connected—season after

season.

Stay tuned for more information on MaestroClass and A Christmas Carol this 2025 by following

@prosceniumtheater on Instagram and Facebook. The curtain has risen, and Rockwell is just

getting started.

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Meet the Full Cast of The Bodyguard The Musical – Manila

The global smash hit The Bodyguard The Musical has landed in Manila, bringing with it powerhouse voices, world-class dancers, and an ensemble of seasoned stage actors ready to breathe new life into the iconic love story. Based on the 1992 film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, the musical features Houston’s greatest hits—including “I Will Always Love You” and “Run to You”—performed by a stellar cast that merges Filipino artistry with international talent.

The Leading Man: Matt Blaker as Frank Farmer

Fresh from London’s West End, Matt Blaker takes center stage as Frank Farmer, the role made famous by Kevin Costner in the film. Blaker has graced some of the world’s biggest productions including The Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, Jersey Boys, and Cabaret. With his commanding presence and international stage experience, he brings the perfect blend of grit and charisma to the former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard.

Of course, Frank Farmer’s story is intertwined with superstar Rachel Marron, portrayed in Manila by none other than Christine Allado, a Filipina West End actress whose stellar career includes Hamilton and other acclaimed productions. Together, Blaker and Allado anchor the show with undeniable star power.

The Filipino Powerhouses
Supporting the leads is a powerhouse Filipino cast. Theater veterans like Lorenz Martinez, known for his impeccable comic timing and soaring tenor, and Vien King, an award-winning leading man hailed for his roles in Passion and Liwanag Sa Dilim, add gravitas to the production. Songstress Radha, best remembered as part of the groundbreaking music group Kulay and for her unforgettable run on The Voice of the Philippines, returns to the stage to showcase her powerhouse vocals. Meanwhile, Sheena Palad, an Aliw Award-winning gospel singer, continues to prove why she is one of the most versatile artists of her generation.

 

 

Lorenz Martinez, Vien King, Radha, Sheena Palad

Rising stars also take their place in the spotlight—CJ Navato, who grew up in front of Filipino audiences as part of Goin’ Bulilit; Giani Sarita, the model-actor-singer making waves on the international scene; and Jasmine Fitzgerald, who has impressed both local and overseas audiences with her vocal prowess. Their mix of youthful energy and fresh artistry gives this production an electrifying edge.

  
CJ Navato, Giani Sarita, Jasmine Fitzgerald

Dance, Drama, and Dynamism
Beyond the leads, The Bodyguard The Musical – Manila boasts an ensemble of accomplished dancers and multi-disciplinary performers. Names like Natalie Duque, Alex Aure, and Carmelle “Ching” Ros bring years of professional dance training to the stage, while Winchester Lopez and Julio Laforteza—both with impressive international credits—add world-class polish to the choreography. Richardson Yadao, a two-time Gawad Buhay Awardee and respected choreographer, lends his artistry to elevate the production’s movement vocabulary.

  

Natalie Duque, Alex Aure, Carmelle Ros

  

Winchester Lopez, Julio Laforteza, Richardson Yadao

Other standouts include Iya Villanueva, Paji Arceo, Jasper John Jimenez, Fay Castro, Elian Santos, and Joven Uy, each of whom brings unique strengths from theater, film, and music. The diverse background of this ensemble ensures that every number bursts with energy, precision, and heart.

  

Iya Villanueva, Paji Arceo, Jasper John Jimenez

  

Fay Castro, Elian Santos, John Joven Uy

Special Comebacks and Guest Stars
This Manila run also marks the theater comebacks of beloved personalities. Eventologist Tim Yap returns to the stage after more than 20 years, bringing his signature flair to the production. Acclaimed choreographer and Galaw.Co founder PJ Rebullida also rejoins the musical theater world, adding depth with his extensive dance background. Completing the star lineup is Lani Ligot, whose vocal prowess has graced everything from Rak of Aegis to international productions.

  

Tim Yap, PJ Rebullida, Lani Ligot

A Truly World-Class Cast
With a blend of celebrated Filipino talent and international excellence, The Bodyguard The Musical – Manila is set to be one of the most exciting theatrical events of the year. From powerhouse vocals to breathtaking choreography, this all-star cast promises a production that honors Whitney Houston’s legacy while showcasing the strength and artistry of the Philippine stage.

This is not just a musical—it’s a cultural moment. Manila, get ready to fall in love again with The Bodyguard.

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Christine Allado Comes Home in Rockwell’s Premiere of The Bodyguard The Musical

If you’re a fan of West End blockbusters, powerhouse vocals, and unforgettable love stories, then clear your calendar—Christine Allado is returning to Manila, and she’s bringing the magic with her.

The internationally acclaimed Filipina artist, best known for her breakout role in Hamilton’s original West End cast and her performances with Andrea Bocelli, is set to play Rachel Marron in The Bodyguard The Musical. Yes, the iconic role made famous by Whitney Houston—now reimagined for the stage with Christine’s signature grace, strength, and vocal brilliance.

Even more exciting? This marks the first-ever theatrical production at the elegant Proscenium Theater at Rockwell—a space built for cultural milestones and intimate spectacle. Expect a night of lush storytelling, cinematic tension, and that timeless soundtrack: “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” and “I Will Always Love You”—live and larger than life.

Christine’s homecoming is more than a casting—it’s a cultural moment. From In The Heights to The Prince of Egypt, Carousel, and the upcoming Jo: Little Women The Musical in London, she’s graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages. Now, she’s back to light up Manila’s theater scene with heart, elegance, and world-class artistry.

As the spotlight turns toward Christine, anticipation builds for her leading man—Frank Farmer—with the full cast reveal just around the corner.

The Bodyguard The Musical opens soon at the Proscenium Theater. Tickets are now available at premier.ticketworld.com.ph.

Follow @christineallado and @prosceniumtheater for exclusive content, cast updates, and a behind-the-scenes look at what’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year.

Manila, this is your standing ovation moment. Don’t miss it.

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