Jolina Magdangal Makes Her Musical Theater Debut in PETA’s “Walang Aray”

Pop icon Jolina Magdangal takes on a bold new stage as she makes her much-anticipated musical theater debut in PETA’s hit comedy musical Walang Aray. Known for her iconic roles in film, television, and music, Magdangal brings her signature charm to the role of the quirky and flamboyant Doña Juana in the award-winning production. This marks a new milestone in her celebrated career, as she joins an acclaimed cast for the show’s highly awaited rerun from August 29 to October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater Center. Her entry into the theater scene adds a fresh layer of excitement to the crowd-favorite musical, which returns sharper, funnier, and more powerful than ever.

Jolina Magdangal as Dona Juana

Adding even more star power and heart to the production is singer-songwriter and stage veteran Ice Seguerra, who plays Lucas—the loyal and witty sidekick of Tenyong. With Magdangal and Seguerra sharing the stage, Walang Aray promises to deliver not just laughs but also a nostalgic and delightful theatrical experience that blends pop culture flair with PETA’s signature brand of socially resonant storytelling.

Ice Seguerra as Lucas

Tickets for the show will be available starting June 28 via ticket2me.net.

An exclusive and discounted pre-sale for Metrobank credit cardholders will run from June 28 until July 1, 2025. The public sale starts on July 2, 2025. Ticket prices are as follows: P2,500 (VIP Front and VIP Elevated), P2,000 (Orchestra Center and Balcony Center), P1,500 (Orchestra Side), and P1,200 (Balcony Side).

Walang Aray is produced by PETA in partnership with Indie.Go Media, together with Metrobank.

For partnerships and show-buying inquiries, contact Mitch Go at 0917-539-1112 or email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com. For more information about Walang Aray, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater.

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Side Show: The Musical Announces Full Company

After mounting critically-acclaimed productions of Little Shop of Horrors: A Bloodthirsty Musical Comedy and Next to Normal, The Sandbox Collective continues its 2025 season with SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL this July 2025.

Set in 1930s America, SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is a fictional depiction of the life and times of real-life conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, who found fame and notoriety in the vaudeville circuit in 1920 and 1930s.

Featuring a stellar mix of Philippine theater’s veterans and rising stars, the show is set to captivate audiences with a brand new staging of the original 1997 version of SIDE SHOW.

THE HILTON TWINS
Alternating in the role of the conjoined twins, Violet and Daisy Hilton, are powerhouse pairs Tanya Manalang and Marynor Madamesila, and Krystal Kane and Molly Langley.

Tanya Manalang and Marynor Madamesila

The award-winning and global artist, Tanya Manalang stars as Violet Hilton in Side Show. She played Kim in ‘Miss Saigon’ (West End, London) and originated the role of Joy in ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo.’ She is a Best Actress winner (Aliw, GEMS), and has starred in ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘The King and I,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ ‘tick, tick… Boom!,’ ‘All Out of Love,’ and more.

A proud alumna of UP Diliman’s Theatre Arts program, Marynor Madamesila stars alongside Tanya as Daisy Hilton. She is a singer, mover, and multimedia actor. Some of her recent credits include: ‘Walang Aray,’ ‘Sandosenang Sapatos,’ ‘Batang Rizal,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ and 'Buruguduystunstugudunstuy.’ Marynor is a Gawad Buhay and Aliw Award nominee for Best Lead Actress. On screen, Marynor has appeared in ‘Pamilya Ko,’ ‘Love in 40 Days,’ ‘Oh, Mando!’ and ‘Beauty and the Boss.’

Molly Langley and Krystal Kane

Molly Langley takes the stage as Violet Hilton in Side Show. Trained at Performers College in the UK, Molly’s theater credits include ‘Spring Awakening,’ ‘The Wild Party,’ and most recently ‘RENT’ as Mimi. She is a seasoned international performer with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Lines. She was recently part of the sixth season of the singing competition ‘The Clash’ where she made it to the final Top 6.

Krystal Kane stars alongside Molly as Daisy Hilton. Krystal has been doing professional theater since she was 10 years old. Her previous productions include ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘Spring Awakening,’ and ‘Once On This Island.’ In 2019, Krystal was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Musical at the first Philippine Leaf Awards, as well as Best Actress in a Musical Show by Broadwayworld Philippines. Krystal also served as the costumes stylist for The Sandbox Collective’s ‘Lungs,’ ‘Every Brilliant Thing,’ ‘Bawat Bonggang Bagay,’ and ‘Tiny Beautiful Things.

THE BOSS
Stepping into the role of The Boss is comedian, host, and TV and film actor Jon Santos. Last seen on stage in The Sandbox Collective’s sold-out runs of ‘Bawat Bonggang Bagay.’ Jon was also seen in productions such as ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Rak of Aegis,’ ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,’ ‘Bituing Walang Ningning,’ and ‘Ako si Josephine.’ Outside of theater, Jon is one of the mainstay judges of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines.

Jon Santos as The Boss

TERRY CONNOR
Alternating in the role of the press agent and Daisy’s love interest, Terry Conor, are theater leading men Reb Atadero and CJ Navato.

Reb Atadero and CJ Navato

Reb Atadero is an award-winning actor, singer, host, voice actor, director, and content creator. He is Gawad Buhay Awardee for his portrayal of Michael in ‘tick, tick… Boom!’ and has received nominations for his performances in ‘The Graduate,’ ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,’ ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Lungs,’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ Beyond the stage, Reb is known for his online educational content, popularizing the catchphrase “BOOM! Now You Know!”, which has since expanded into his very own podcast, ‘BOOM! Now We Know!,’ streaming on Spotify.

With over 20 years in the industry, CJ Navato has captured the hearts of many on the big screen, TV, and now including theater. He rose to fame as a mainstay in ABS-CBN’s ‘Goin’ Bulilit’ and has since appeared in various shows like ‘Luv U,’ ‘Doc Ricky,’ ‘Pedia,’ and ‘Dirty Linen.’ He was last seen on stage in ‘Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical,’ ‘One More Chance The Musical,’ and ‘Charot!’.

BUDDY FOSTER
Sharing the role of the aspiring musician and Violet’s love interest, Buddy Foster, are leading men, Vien King and Tim Pavino.

Vien King and Tim Pavino

Marking a versatile and influential decade in the arts, Vien King has earned the title Best Actor (Gawad Buhay, LEAF Awards) for ‘Passion.’ He starred in ‘Rama Hari,’ ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!,’ and most recently in ‘Liwanag Sa Dilim Musical.’ He also appeared in MMFF hits, ‘Partners in Crime’ and ‘Love at First Stream.’ Vien has performed internationally with Disney in Concert, and now tours Asia with The Jet Theaters.

Tim Pavino is a BroadwayWorld Awardee and a two-time Aliw Awards winner. Tim’s theater experiences include ‘Miong,’ ‘The Great Christmas Cookie Bake-off,’ ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,’ ‘Matilda,’ and ‘Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.’ He has also performed with prestigious orchestras such as the BYU Chamber Orchestra, ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, Auburn Symphony Orchestra, and the Manila Symphony Orchestra, and appeared on The Voice of the Philippines under Team Lea Salonga.

JAKE
Theater mainstays Marvin Ong and Joshua Cabiladas alternate in the role of Jake.

Marvin Ong and Joshua Cabiladas

Singer-songwriter Marvin Ong earned a Gawad Buhay Award for his performance in ‘Sweeney Todd.’ He also received a citation for his role in ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.’ Marvin also played key roles in different productions such as ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,’ ‘Si Juan Tamad, ang Diyablo, at ang Limang Milyong Boto,’ ‘The Sound of Music,' and ‘Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang.’ As a singer, Marvin has released two albums under Viva Records, the first of which earned him a certified gold record status and an Aliw Award nomination.

Joshua Cabiladas is an acclaimed Filipino actor, singer, and improviser with over a decade of experience in theater, film, and music. He was most recently seen in ‘Delia D.,’ as well as in ‘Jepoy and the Magic Circle,’ ‘Lam-Ang,’ ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ ‘Himala: Isang Musikal,’ among others. He reprised his role in the film adaptation of ‘Isang Himala,’ and had notable performances in ‘Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 3,’ ‘Ang Pangarap Kong Holdap,’ ‘Kapatiran,’ ‘Ploy,’ ‘Florante at Laura,’ and ‘Bula sa Langit.’

THE ENSEMBLE
Completing the company are the ensemble members who are set to take the stage as the sideshow curiosities. The Sandbox Collective is delighted to introduce the incredible ensemble comprised of: Arion Sanchez, Chan Rabutazo, Fay Castro, Daniel Wesley, Ian Hermogenes, Mikee Baskiñas, Pamela Imperial, Pappel, Raflesia Bravo, Red Nuestro, Reine Paisley, and Rhap Salazar.

Ensemble

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL will be directed by The Sandbox Collective’s managing artistic director Toff de Venecia, with Ejay Yatco serving as musical director. Rounding out the artistic team will be Mark Dalacat as assistant director and set designer, Carlos Siongco as costume designer, Gabo Tolentino as lighting designer, JM Cabling as choreographer, and Colin Dancel as photographer.

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL opens on July 26, 2025 and will run until August 16, 2025 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets and Show Buying information will be released at a later date. #SideShowMNL

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is licensed through Concord Theatricals.

For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok. You may visit their website www.thesandboxco.com and social media platforms: Facebook Instagram Tiktok

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Review: "Pilato" – A Faith-Based Musical That Challenges Perspectives

"Pilato," the new offering from The Corner Studio, is an original Filipino musical that invites audiences to re-examine the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ through the eyes of Pontius Pilate. Running from April 4 to 13 at the PETA Theater Center, this production provides a fresh perspective on a well-known biblical narrative.

Curtain Call for Pilato, cast with writer and director Eldrin Veloso

The musical traces Pilate's journey from his early ambitions in Rome to his appointment as prefect of Judea, a province rife with political and religious unrest. This setting serves as a backdrop for Pilate's moral and political struggles, offering audiences a nuanced portrayal of his character.

One of the musical's standout features is its thoughtfully composed score, which seamlessly blends traditional Jewish musical elements. This fusion not only enriches the narrative but also immerses the audience in the cultural and historical context of the story.

Jerome Ferguson as Pilato

Cast of Pilato, Noel Rayos as Hesus

Beyond its musical achievements, Pilato delves into themes of truth and power, resonating with contemporary societal issues. The production challenges viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and the complexities of decision-making in a politically charged environment. The play aims to unravel the mystery of truth's many faces, a particularly pertinent exploration in today's post-truth era.

Featuring a talented ensemble cast led by Jerome Ferguson as Pilato, Onyl Torres as Josepo and Noel Rayos as Hesus, Pilato offers a compelling and thought-provoking theatrical experience. Its innovative storytelling and rich musical compositions make it a must-see production this season.

Don’t miss Pilato starting today, April 4 at 8pm for its world premiere and on April 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13 at 3pm and 8pm, at the PETA Theater Center.

Tickets are now available at pilato.helixpay.com.

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Once On This Island - making waves of emotions in a spectacular musical

Saw the matinee show of 9 Works Theatrical’s Once On This Island last weekend with Angela Ken as Ti Moune and Sam Concepcion as Daniel.

The stage immediately took us to the sea. The drapes and fringes are constantly flowing while you hear the calming sound of the waves. If you’re not familiar with the show like me, you will immediately think you’re in a very colorful seaside vibe which they did deliver. I admit I was a bit worried about the sloped platforms and how they’d sing and dance but trusting the theater gods, our actors were completely safe to prance and give us a great show. The stage was indeed beautifully done. 

The songs and dances are quite inviting to a party. It would be delightful if they pulled some audiences to dance onstage for a moment to remember. 

This might be the most pleasant sounding musical for me to date. Angela Ken got the sound of a siren and pure emotions that comes out of Ti Moune. An early congratulations to her. Supported with many theater veterans in the show, all have complimented their harmonies.

Sam Concepcion who headlines another musical at the northern part of the Metro is also a must see. He and Angela make a cute chemistry that will swoon the audiences with their love story. Don't want to give spoilers but it is something emotionally devastating. It means that they are both great and effective in their parts.

And oh, I love the gods' hats. Hoped they could be part of the available merch so we can play gods at one time. 

Once On This Island runs until September 29 at Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza, Makati. Directed by Robbie Guevara. For tickets, visit bit.ly/OnceOnThisIslandMNL.

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Auditions NOW OPEN for PETA's One More Chance, The Musical

Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) much-awaited production for 2024, “One More Chance, the Musical,” featuring the music of the massively popular and award-winning Filipino nine-piece band, Ben&Ben, announces the casting call for auditions starting Monday, November 20, 2024.

Interested applicants who want to audition will have the chance of a lifetime to portray the roles of Popoy, Basha, the Thursday Barkada, and other ensemble characters from the cult-classic movie.

Applicants must submit 16 bars, or 1 stanza and 1 chorus, of the best part of any Ben&Ben or OPM song, along with 4 bars of choreography to any contemporary modern music. The full set of requirements can be found at this link: https://tinyurl.com/OMCauds.

The deadline for all casting submissions will be November 26 at 11:59 p.m. Live auditions at the PETA Theater Center will follow from December 4–5.

“One More Chance, the Musical” is slated to open in April 2024 at the PETA Theater Center.

For more information on this much-awaited musical, follow PETA Theater on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @petatheater. For partnerships, email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com. For questions regarding auditions, email petaonemorechancetm@gmail.com.

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Parokya Ni Edgar musical casting calls

After the successful run of Ang Huling El Bimbo in August, Full House Theater company immediately revealed that the next OPM musical will feature the songs of Eraserheads' band contemporary, Parokya Ni Edgar. It was revealed today that the musical will be titled BURUGUDUYSTUNSTUGUDUNSTUY: ANG PAROKYA NI EDGAR MUSICAL.

Director Dexter Martinez Santos has posted casting call for the roles and ensemble with an invitation from PNE front man, Chito Miranda.

Interested talents may send their audition videos starting tomorrow, September 12 - October 1, 2023 via PNE2024@gmail.com. Bagsakan na!

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RAMA, HARI, all set for September 15, 16, 22 and 23

RAMA, HARI, the highly-acclaimed Filipino rock opera ballet, returns to the stage this September. The production holds the prestige of being the only collaboration that features the masterful works of five National Artists, Alice Reyes for Direction and Choreography, Ryan Cayabyab for Music, Salvador Bernal for Production Design, and Bienvenido Lumbera for the lyrics and libretto with English Translations by Rolando Tinio. Presented by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Metropolitan Theater, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and with the generous support of Birch Tree Adult Boost, the production features artists from CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines with performances running at the Metropolitan Theater on September 15-16, and at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, September 22-23, 2023.

Inspired by the ancient Sanskrit epic, Ramayana, the ballet tells of the adventures of Rama, prince and incarnation of the god Vishnu, who comes down to earth to save the world from Ravana, the most powerful of demons and in time falls in love with Sita, daughter of the king of Mithila, Janaka, and eventually marries her. The evil Ravana attempts to tear the two apart only to find himself defeated and his demonic plans thwarted.

Quite coincidentally, in the late 70s and early 80s a new musical genre was born, referred to as OPM, or Original Pilipino Music; and herein lies the uniqueness in the adaptation of the legend having the distinction of being the first OPM music and dance theater masterpiece.

Alice Reyes took the challenge of weaving the dancers and singers within the music score, instead of separating them, creating a wholistic staging. Reyes uses diverse elements derived from Asian theater such as the shadow play, various hand props, and Indian movements transposed to choreography in the modern dance genre.

The music of Ryan Cayabyab is an intermingling of various Southeast Asian musical influences rather than South Asian (Indian) with a dash of Western influence as heard in the monkey chant. The mixed influences of his music altogether “ Filipinized the score,” as he refers to his work as an “ eclectic piece,” a style that has eventually become his musical signature.

National Artists - Alice Reyes and Ryan Cayabyab

Complementing the music is the libretto of Bienvenido Lumbera, whose script has varying levels: an elevated diction for the protagonist and Filipino slang for the demons. The theatrical reason being that “the intrusion of a very contemporary diction could jar the audience into perceiving that the ancient epic of India is also “now” and “Filipino.”’ An English translation projected during the performance is the work of Rolando Tinio.

Salvador Bernal’s set designs further outline his stylized ornamented Oriental costumes.

RAMA, HARI was last re-staged in 2012 and won 14 Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards. It was intended to be re-staged once more in 2020 but was canceled due to the pandemic lockdown. This year, the long-awaited re-staging of RAMA, HARI will open in September with excited expectations.

This year, the creative team searched for new talents to join the cast and take on some of the production’s iconic singing roles.

The cast includes musical theater star, Arman Ferrer in the lead role of Rama with Vien King alternating. They will perform alongside dancers Ronelson Yadao and Ejay Arisola.

Arman Ferrer and Vien King as Rama

Karylle Tatlonghari, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, and fresh-face talent Nica Tupas alternate in the role of Rama’s beloved wife, Sita, with dance counterparts, Monica Gana, and Katrene San Miguel.

Karylle, Shiela Valderama-Martinez and Nica Tupas as Sita

Rak of Aegis Star, Poppert Bernadas, takes on the role of the demon King Ravana, alternating with Los Angeles-based musical theater actor Mathew San Jose making his Manila debut, and Jonel Mojica. Dancing the role are Richardson Yadao and Tim Cabrera.

Poppert Bernadas, Mathew San Jose and Jonel Mojica as King Ravana

Theater icon Audie Gemora takes on the role of King Dasaratha. Also joining the cast are Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana in the dual role of King Dasaratha's Third Wife, Kaikeyi, and the Golden Doe, while Miah Canton, and Raflesia Bravo take on the dual role of Kaikeyi's evil adviser, Kooni, and Ravana's demon sister Soorpanakha.

Paw Castillo and Jon Abella do double duty as Monkey Army General, Hanuman, and Rama’s brother Lakshmana.

The showing of this grand epic is a timely presentation for the first show of ARDP after its celebration of its first anniversary last July 23. Starting with a press conference hosted by a heritage restaurant, Milky Way, which opened its doors in 1950 serving memorable dishes that have been relished by at least three generations of Filipinos. Keeping with the theme of RAMA, HARI, an Indian legend, Kashmir Restaurant, established in 1975, will also be coming on as a sponsor. Kashmir is now owned by Leon Araneta, son of Gemma Cruz Araneta, the country’s first Miss International in 1964. Both Ms. Araneta and Ms. Reyes were classmates at Maryknoll College where both are honored as Outstanding Alumnae.

Altogether, RAMA, HARI is indeed a celebration on many levels and truly an extreme reason for not missing the show.

RAMA, HARI is presented by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Metropolitan Theater, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and with the generous support of Birch Tree Adult Boost. It features the artists of Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) and the CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program (PASP), with dance trainees from Guang Ming College, Philippine High School for the Arts, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and other independent performers.

SHOW SCHEDULE:
September 15, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Metropolitan Theater
September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*

September 22, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater*
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater
September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater**

*With live music performed by The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth
**Evening Performance Sponsored by Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp.

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tick... tick... BOOM! Time is not running out for everyone.

Live theater is back for 9 Works Theatrical. Maybe the most recent company to open its doors to the audience with their restaging of one of Jonathan Larson's notable musicals, tick... tick... BOOM! This expresses that there will be a right time for all things. And the timing for staging this is well-executed.

tick... tick... BOOM! is about a struggling artist who feels the pressure of success in a target time, the case of which is before the age of 30. Led by Jef Flores, with Reb Atadero and Tanya Manalang, alternating with Khalil Ramos, Vien King and Kayla Rivera, this musical hits to the core of everyone who undergoes existential crisis and overthinking the goals that surround us.

Jon (Flores/Ramos) is like many of us. He has the ideals, passion but punched by reality in the face. I sometimes associate him to Christian of Moulin Rouge who believes that everything has its order but dwells in the reality that we are starting penniless and need to work hard.

But on the bright side, we are lucky to be given with a handful of people who can support us. Reb and Tanya, playing Mike and Susan, could be your household companions. It seems that Jonathan Larson was very lucky to have these two in his life. He was not even harshly confronted of taking too long to push a career but instead they supported his dreams. 

The three, collectively, has to be given credit for exemplary performance in their roles. They have formed a great ensemble with just 3 cast members. The stage also has a notable moment that drew the audience into a great impact which understands our feelings and in a comforting way. A special applause for director Robbie Guevara for a fun treatment on this production. It was clearly different in Netflix's version which stars Andrew Garfield, but that is for another commentary. 

9 Works' comeback production of tick... tick... BOOM! runs until August 27, 2023 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium. The cast are shuffled every show so you can watch different takes on the roles. For tickets, you may visit https://bit.ly/m/ticktickBOOMmnl

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Fear or Love, Baby?

9 Works Theatrical presents Jonathan Larson’s tick, tick… BOOM!

tick, tick…BOOM!: A Must-Watch for All Artists and Creatives

If you’re a struggling artist or creative, odds are, you’ve found yourself asking this question: Will you pursue the passion that makes your life worth living? Or will you pursue a career that makes a living?

This is the story of our protagonist Jon in the musical tick, tick… BOOM! Jon is an aspiring composer who is about to turn thirty and is growing increasingly anxious about his future in theater. Pressure mounts when his girlfriend, Susan, hounds him about leaving New York to start a family and seek a more stable profession. Tensions also rise when his best friend Michael—an erstwhile actor-turned marketing executive—tries to convince him to join the fold.

Amidst it all, Jon hears a constant ticking–a reminder that he is getting older, with little to show.

“You're no longer the ingénue / Turn thirty, 1990 / Boom! You're passe!”
- 30/90 from tick, tick…BOOM!

Created by Jonathan Larson in the 90s, tick, tick…BOOM! brilliantly captures the internal war within every creative spirit: the struggle between going after one’s dreams and settling for a comfortable but joyless life. This story continues to ring true decades after its debut, largely because Larson harnessed his own life experiences, to bring the characters and songs to life. tick, tick…BOOM! began as a semi-autobiographical rock monologue about Larson’s hardships while trying to make a name for himself in the theater since the ‘80s. Sadly, Larson died the day before the preview performance of his masterpiece, Rent. He was 35.

“Can he make his mark, if he gives up his spark?”
- Johnny Can’t Decide from tick, tick…BOOM!

If you are a creative spirit, or if you have artist friends and family, bring them to RCBC Plaza any weekend this August to catch this era-defining musical!

In this restaging of the three-person musical, 9 Works Theatrical has assembled the perfect cast in theater veteran Jef Flores and Kapuso star Khalil Ramos (alternating as Jon), Miss Saigon alum Tanya Manalang and multimedia performer Kayla Rivera (alternating as Susan), and rising star Vien King and actor-creator Reb Atadero (alternating as Michael).

Back L-R: Kayla Rivera, Vien King, Reb Atadero, Tanya Manalang
Front L-R: Jef Flores, Khalil Ramos

tick, tick…BOOM! is directed by Robbie Guevara, with Daniel Bartolome as musical director, JM Cabling as choreographer, Mio Infante as scenographer, Shakira Villa-Symes as lighting designer, Bam Tiongson as Sound Designer, Myrene Santos as hair and makeup designer, Marlito Ambrocio as technical director, Ian Cartalaba as costume supervisor, and JV Rabano as photographer.

tick, tick…BOOM! will be showing all weekends of August 2023 at 3:00pm & 7:30pm on Saturdays & Sundays, at the CPR Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati. Tickets are now available via ticket2me.net. Grab yours while you can!

tick, tick…BOOM! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

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Experiencing “Milestone Anxiety”? tick, tick…BOOM! is your safe space

According to ExploringYourMind.com, milestone anxiety is defined as “the psychological pressure that people experience when they perceive that they haven’t yet met many of their expectations and life goals.” Some life milestones include buying a home, getting married, having kids and more. Just last year, UK-based organization Relate discovered that this milestone anxiety is rising among millennials and Gen Z members. The early 30s seem to be a real “crunch point”—by age 30, young adults are expected to have their lives together.

Anxious about turning 30 (or getting older)? Say less.
There’s a musical that says it all—one that was written decades ago, but is still relevant to our milestone anxiety-ridden generation.

tick, tick…BOOM! is a musical created by Jonathan Larson (Rent). It’s the story about a group of twenty-somethings trying to find their way in ‘90s New York.

Main character Jon is a struggling composer, who is days away from turning thirty. He can’t help but hear that internal ticking of the clock: he doesn’t want to turn a year older with nothing to show. His girlfriend, Susan, wants to leave New York to start a family and establish a stable career in the suburbs. Adding to the pressure is his best friend and ex-theater buddy, Michael, who convinces him to join the marketing industry instead and lead a more comfortable life.

“Years are getting shorter, lines on your face are getting longer. Feel like you’re treading water, but the riptide’s getting stronger.” - 30/90 from tick, tick…BOOM!

This musical continues to be #relatable even (and especially) among younger audiences because of its truthfulness. Larson actually drew inspiration from his own personal struggles and relationships; he was a young adult trying to make a name for himself as a composer in the 80s. Larson would eventually enjoy critical acclaim and worldwide success for his later work, Rent, but only posthumously. He died days before his 35th birthday, one day before Rent’s first preview performance.

“Johnny wants to hide. Can he settle down and still not drown?”
- Johnny Can’t Decide from tick, tick…BOOM!

While this play resonates with young adults, it’s not for them alone. People of all ages—or anyone who’s ever heard that (dreadful) internal “tick…tick…tick…”—will find comfort in Larson’s award-winning musical. If you’ve ever been bombarded with news about friends getting married, getting promoted, having kids, buying homes–you are probably feeling that mounting pressure. Will you compromise or persevere? Cages or wings, which do you prefer? tick, tick…BOOM! is your safe space for processing all these feelings.

9 Works Theatrical’s restaging of the three-person musical will showcase the talents of young adult stars: Jef Flores and Khalil Ramos (alternating as Jon), Tanya Manalang and Kayla Rivera (alternating as Susan), and Vien King and Reb Atadero (alternating as Michael). Owing to the beauty of theater and the life experiences that each of the artists will bring to the table, the incredible cast is ready to tell this poignant story about growing old, growing up, growing anxious–and ultimately, growing together.

tick, tick…BOOM! is directed by Robbie Guevara, with Daniel Bartolome as musical director, JM Cabling as choreographer, Mio Infante as scenographer, Shakira Villa-Symes as lighting designer, Bam Tiongson as Sound Designer, Myrene Santos as hair and makeup designer, Marlito Ambrocio as technical director, Ian Cartalaba as costume supervisor, and JV Rabano as photographer.

Heading the production team is executive producer Santi Santamaria, with Anna Santamaria as operations & finance director, Charyl de Guzman as production manager, Jonjon Martin as PR manager, GM Hernandez as marketing manager, and Arma Bonilla as stage manager.

Tickets are selling out fast!
tick, tick…BOOM! will be showing all weekends of August 2023 at 3:00pm & 7:30pm on Saturdays & Sundays, at the CPR Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati. Tickets are now available via ticket2me.net. Grab yours while you can!

For partnerships & show buying inquiries, you may reach 9WT via info@9workstheatrical.com, 7586 7105 or 0917 554 5560.

For more updates, follow the official FB & YouTube pages (@9WorksTheatrical), Twitter, Instagram and TikTok (@9WTonline).  #ticktickBOOMmnl #9WorksTheatrical

tick, tick…BOOM! is brought to you by 9 Works Theatrical, together with CNN Philippines and BroadwayWorld as official media partners, H&M as official clothing partner, and Make-up designory as official make-up partner.

tick, tick…BOOM! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

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"Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical… 'Yun Lang!" is All Set for March 17 - April 2 Performances

Are you ready to watch the latest musical theater treat from Ateneo Blue Repertory (blueREP)?

Presented by Rizal Library, and Co-Presented by Areté, Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical... 'Yun Lang! is a cult classic comedy based on the graphic novel by Carlo Vergara, with Music and Lyrics by Vincent A. DeJesus, and Stage Adaptation by Chris Martinez.

The show deals with otherworldly proportions about what it means to be queer in the Philippines. Sometimes, in the end, it takes something out of this world to bring you the truth of who you are, the range of what you can do, and the love that's been right beside you this whole time.

The cast includes award-winning performer, singer, actress, entrepreneur, and social media influencer Kim Molina as Zsazsa; Phi Palmos, Adrian Lindayag, and Shaun Ocrisma as Ada; Joshua Cabiladas, Almond Bolante and Robert Bradley Hao as Didi; Juan Carlos Galiano, Jude Matthew Sevilla and Elian Dominguez as Dodong; Kakki Teodoro, Anyah de Guzman as Queen Femina Suarestellar Baroux; Carlin Maximo, Jelena Evangelista, Dani Tan, and Heart Romeo as Amazonistas; Kyla Rivera as Aling Britney, and other members of the Ateneo Blue Repertory as ensemble.

Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical… ‘Yun Lang! is also composed of a talented pool of artistic team members with the direction of Philippine Theater Actors Guild (TAG) President Missy Maramara; musical direction of music composer and writer Vincent A. DeJesus; production and costumes design of Tata Tuviera; choreography of Franco Ramos; technical direction of Adriane Ungriano; lights design of D Cortezano; graphic design of Ralf Borja; and illustrations of Rio Reyes.

The show will run from March 17, 2023, to April 2, 2023, at the Doreen Fernandez Black Box Theater, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University.

For ticket inquiries, please contact Dani Villa (09171394640), or send an email to bluerep.house@gmail.com

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Shawn Mendes lends voice for Lyle, Lyle Crocodile

Shawn Mendes, superstar recording artist and Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter, brings Lyle, the singing crocodile to vocal life, in Columbia Pictures’ new musical comedy Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (in Philippine cinemas October 12).

Based on the best-selling book series by Bernard Waber, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is a live-action / CGI musical comedy that brings this beloved character to a new, global audience.

Mendes describes Lyle as a character driven by love. “He just wants to have a family, a home, and feel connected to people,” says Mendes, “and love is the reason I sing, too – I sing when I feel comfortable, when I feel accepted. I relate to him a lot.”

“Hearing your own voice come out of an animated character is such a weird experience,” Mendes continues. “It can be a bit of an out-of-body experience to hear your voice coming out of a crocodile, he adds, but what he wasn’t expecting was how much the animators would capture of Mendes himself. “While I was singing in the studio, the animators were filming my facial expressions, and then animating Lyle to make similar facial expressions that I was making.”

The film features original songs performed by Shawn Mendes, Javier Bardem, and Constance Wu, written by the songwriting team behind The Greatest Showman, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.

For Mendes, singing the work of Pasek and Paul brought to the fore the way that gifted songwriters can make the songs of a musical work a dual purpose, building on each other as part of a cohesive whole and also providing a discrete, joyful experience. “When you watch one of their movies or shows, you’re digesting the entire thing at once, and you may not realize just how smart they are,” says Mendes. “You don’t realize how complex and how beautiful these songs are, how lyrically astonishing they are, and how much effort they put into them. But when you’re in the recording studio, going through the songs, it’s an eye-opening experience,” he concludes.

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Chuck Marbella topbills as Engineer in Miss Saigon Vienna Production

Cameron Mackintosh's smash hit love story of Kim, a Vietnamese girl, and Chris, an American GI, opened its Vienna tour on January 23, 2022 at the Raimund Theater. The cast includes Filipino Chuck Marbella as the Engineer.

Christian Rey Marbella, or Chuck, is a musical theater actor, singer and dancer, and has an extensive musical theater experience in Asia, United Kingdom and the United States.

His Theater credits include Engineer and Thuy in MISS SAIGON, Luntha in THE KING AND I, and the Apostle Peter in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR. Other theater credits include BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, CINDERELLA, SHOWBOAT, THE FULL MONTY and some original Filipino musicals, like in CALAMBA JOE playing the national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, as Emilio Jacinto in 1896:THE MUSICAL and as the demon Ravana in RAMAHARI 2012 REVIVAL, as part of Ballet Philippines 50th Anniversary Season.

He is very excited and looking forward to reprise his role of the Engineer, this time with a new text in German in MISS SAIGON Vienna 2022.

 

In his 10th reprise on the role of the Engineer, he was cast in the German version of Ms Saigon after his name was being picked for the Vienna production. He had to learn the language, to sing and speak and expressed his true dedication to the role and craft. As a proud Filipino, he regards that Pinoy talents have the grit, passion, and they strive hard to deliver the role. He plans to carry out the role by being loyal to the text of the musical. The Engineer is a complex, colorful character that is so much fun to play, as he would say.

Other Pinoys in the Vienna production of Miss Saigon are Aynrand 'ab' Ferrer, Winchester R. Lopez, Vincent Bueno, Judicel Eslao, Nila Axxelson, and Erick Somoza Arenas.

The moving love story of Kim, the Vietnamese girl, and Chris, the American GI, and their fateful encounter in Vietnam is brought to life in a lavish staging with haunting music, extravagant choreography, a striking set and breath-taking technical effects.

Not for nothing is the dramatic moment when a helicopter lands on stage considered one of the most unforgettable moments in the history of musicals.


The musical will be performed in German with English Subtitles.

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PhilStagers goes to the movies with Katips

In a very appropriate time while the Philippines is nearing its national elections in 2022, we are constantly reminded to check a candidate's personal, educational and political background so that we can choose wisely in the polls. We are also being fed with lots of information from history to check if we have learned something, whether it's a mistake or an achievement that made us who we are today.

Vince Tanada and the ensemble of Katips Movie

PhilStager's Films and director Vince Tañada gives us the movie version of Katips -- a musical play that narrates the life of students and activists during Martial Law. Students have displayed their strong will fighting for human rights and against tyranny during the Marcos era. They also have been the subject to military oppression and torture that is unimaginable to this day. If today's generations speaks about being woke, Vince Tañada and the rest of the cast who have experienced that era are all willing to testify and oppose what might undesirable thing would happen in the future if an unfit candidate will be declared in the position.

Katips' storyline is a mixture of emotions at the same time trying to inform audiences about history. And the creative team of Katips and PhilStagers ensured that the story reaches out the right audience to understand the message. While it was a depressing time for the students during Martial Law, it also gives a message of hope, truth and a call for unity and justice.

Katips is 2016 Best Musical Performance in the Aliw Awards that year. This year, it is joined by actors and displaced artists who have the same objective and have put great efforts to give a strong message in protection of freedom. Cast includes Jerome Ponce, Vince Tañada, Mon Confiado, Johnrey Rivas, Lou Veloso, Nicole Laurel Asensio, Adelle Ibarrientos, Sachzna Laparan, Joshua Bulot, Vean Olmedo, Carla Lim, Patricia Ismael, Dexter Doria, Afi Africa, OJ Arci, Ricky Brioso, and Liam Tanare. With guests Dindo Arroyo, JP Lopez, Bernard Laxa and Nelson Mendoza.

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Watch the trailer of Jonathan Larson's tick, tick.. BOOM! coming to Netflix

In a community ravaged by the AIDS epidemic, a young artist writes what he thinks is the next great American musical. tick, tick... BOOM! follows the story of Jonathan Larson, played by Oscar-nominee and Tony award-winner Andrew Garfield, who waits tables in a diner during the 1990s and composes songs. The acclaimed musical is now made into a movie, produced and directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and coming to Netflix on November 19 and select theaters.

Jonathan Larson also revolutionized theater with his hit rock musical R.E.N.T. and this autobiographical musical shows the struggles of a young artist and feeling the pressure of people around him - from his girlfriend Susan, who dreams of an artistic life beyond New York City; and from his friend Michael, who has moved on from his dream to a life of financial security. Watch the full trailer below.

 

tick, tick…BOOM! stars Academy Award nominee & Tony Award winner Andrew Garfield, Alexandra Shipp, Tony Award nominee Robin de Jesús, Tony Award nominee Joshua Henry, Emmy Award nominee Mj Rodriguez, Emmy Award winner Bradley Whitford, Tariq Trotter aka Black Thought of The Roots, with Emmy and Tony Award winner Judith Light, and Vanessa Hudgens. The film is written by Tony Award winner Steven Levenson and produced by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard for Imagine Entertainment, Julie Oh, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Andrew Garfield and Lin-Manuel Miranda

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