Theater Review: “DEDMA” by Theatre Titas

Running until October 26 at The Mirror Studios, Kalayaan Ave., Poblacion, Makati

“DEDMA” is a sharp, witty, and at times painfully honest look at the lives of women in the middle and upper classes of society. Through its stories, it examines the delicate dance between appearances, privilege, friendship, and survival, all delivered with humor and heart.

Let’s Do Lunch
The show opens with “Let’s Do Lunch,” an engaging and entertaining piece that immediately draws the audience in. Bebang (Ash Nicanor) is busily preparing a dinner for Val (Naths Everett) and Issa (Issa Litton). What starts as a lighthearted gathering between old friends soon turns into something much deeper.

Ash Nicanor (Bebang)

Val is warm, witty, and reminiscent of Karen from Will & Grace. She is perky, sharp, and generous, but not arrogant. She thrives in high society, with a mix of charm and straightforward honesty. Issa, on the other hand, used to belong to the same circle but has since chosen a simpler, more practical life. Now, she’s trying to make a living selling insurance, including to Val and their old social circle.

Naths Everett as Val

The dialogue between Val and Issa feels natural and layered. It’s not just a catch-up between friends. It’s a subtle negotiation of pride, boundaries, and how much has changed over time. Issa answers Val’s loaded “How are you?” with dignity, and beneath the surface, both women are reaching out for understanding. Val wants to help but struggles to express it without offending. Issa wants to be accepted without pity.

The confrontation that unfolds is powerful but never overplayed. It reveals how class and personal choices can quietly strain friendships. The scene ends on a heartfelt note, showing that even without a perfect resolution, genuine connection still matters. Both Naths Everett and Issa Litton deliver strong performances, grounding the story in honesty and emotion. Litton, in particular, impresses with her controlled yet layered portrayal of Issa.

Audiences can also look forward to seeing veteran actress Mayen Bustamante-Cadd take on the role of Val next weekend, which adds another exciting layer to the run of the production.

The humor sprinkled throughout, thanks in part to Bebang’s energy, keeps the piece from becoming too heavy. It feels real, like a conversation many might have had but never admitted out loud.

The Foxtrot
“The Foxtrot” shifts the tone of DEDMA into something more intimate and emotional. It follows Diego (Royce Cabrera) and Anna (Jackie Lou Blanco), dance partners preparing for an upcoming competition. What begins as a simple rehearsal soon turns into a complex exploration of connection, honesty, and unspoken feelings.

At the heart of the story is the question, “What are we, really?” Both Diego and Anna see their partnership differently. Diego insists on keeping things professional, while Anna views their bond as something deeper. It may sound like a familiar story of blurred lines between affection and companionship, but the writing makes it grounded and sincere. Beneath the rhythm of their rehearsals, both characters are searching for meaning—Diego for clarity and Anna for comfort.

Diego, despite being engaged, feels more at ease dancing with Anna. Their partnership becomes his emotional escape, a space where he can express what words cannot. For Anna, dancing with Diego is a refuge from her personal struggles, a reminder of passion and connection in a life that may have grown rigid or lonely.

 

Both Jackie Lou Blanco and Royce Cabrera bring depth and authenticity to their roles. Cabrera, one of the most promising actors of his generation, shows impressive range here—balancing emotional restraint with subtle vulnerability, while also proving his grace and skill in dance. Blanco, meanwhile, delivers a moving portrayal of Anna’s fragility and longing. Her quiet moments speak volumes, and her chemistry with Cabrera feels natural and heartfelt.

The final rehearsal scene is especially powerful. The music fades, replaced only by their quiet sobs and heavy breathing. There are no declarations of love, no grand gestures—just two people finally being honest with each other. It’s a bittersweet ending, one that reminds the audience that truth and acceptance are sometimes more meaningful than a perfect romance.

“The Foxtrot” complements the themes of DEDMA beautifully, showing another side of emotional honesty and human vulnerability. It captures how people, regardless of age or status, continue to seek understanding, connection, and a sense of belonging—even if it comes only for a brief moment on the dance floor.

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