Introducing the cast of DEAR EVAN HANSEN!

Meet the cast of the internationally acclaimed musical DEAR EVAN HANSEN!

The Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical is finally arriving in Manila this September at The Theatre at Solaire.

Ellis Kirk and Sonny Monaghan as Evan Hansen

The international touring company is led by Ellis Kirk as Evan Hansen. Kirk made his professional debut in Dear Evan Hansen on London’s West End, and has since been recognized for his emotionally nuanced performance in the role. Sonny Monaghan serves as the Alternate Evan Hansen. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music, Monaghan has been praised for his versatility, previously appearing in Spring Awakening and Into the Woods.

Rebecca McKinnis

Joining him is Rebecca McKinnis as Heidi Hansen, who previously starred as Margaret New in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie (West End) and played roles in We Will Rock You and Mamma Mia!. McKinnis earned acclaim for her moving portrayal of Heidi in the West End production of Dear Evan Hansen.

Zoë Athena

Zoë Athena steps into the role of Zoe Murphy. A rising star in musical theatre, Athena has appeared in Rent and Bring It On: The Musical, with standout performances praised for her vocal strength and stage presence.

Helen Anker

Helen Anker takes on the role of Cynthia Murphy. An accomplished actress, Anker was previously seen in the international Asian tour of Mamma Mia! as Tanya. Her credits also include Chicago, Guys and Dolls, and Curtains in London and on tour.

Hal Fowler

Hal Fowler appears as Larry Murphy. A veteran of the British stage and screen, Fowler originated the role of Javert in Les Misérables in the West End and has appeared in productions such as The Secret Garden, Martin Guerre, and Twelfth Night at the National Theatre.

Rhys Hopkins

Rhys Hopkins plays Connor Murphy. Hopkins has trained at Guildford School of Acting and recently appeared in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and Spring Awakening, where his intense performances have drawn critical notice.

Tom Dickerson

Tom Dickerson joins as Jared Kleinman. His previous roles include appearances in The Book of Mormon, Nativity! The Musical, and Hairspray (UK Tour), showcasing his comedic timing and vocal range.

Olivia-Faith Kamau

Olivia-Faith Kamau stars as Alana Beck. A dynamic performer, Kamau has previously been part of Legally Blonde and Six: The Musical (UK tours), known for her bright stage energy and contemporary appeal.

Rounding out the company are ensemble members Jake Halsey-Jones (Hamilton, West End), Sheri Lineham (Bat Out of Hell), Joseph Peacock (The Band, Saturday Night Fever), Annie Southall (Fame, Hairspray), and Ashlyn Weekes, a newcomer noted for her powerful vocals and fresh talent.

Joseph Peacock, Sheri Lineham, Jake Halsey-Jones

Annie Southall and Ashlyn Weekes

With an award-winning score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman) and a deeply moving book by Steven Levenson, DEAR EVAN HANSEN is a groundbreaking musical about coming of age and finding connection in an often disconnected world.

Don’t miss out on this must-see musical of the season — now extended until 5 October!

Book your tickets now at TicketWorld.

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Crash Landing into Manila: Hyun Bin to Hold First-Ever Fan Meet at Solaire

South Korean superstar Hyun Bin is finally coming to Manila, and Filipino fans are counting down the days. In a long-awaited appearance titled "Hyun Bin Lands at Solaire," the beloved K-drama icon will headline a one-night-only fan meet on August 8, 2025, at The Theatre at Solaire in Entertainment City. Known for his breakout roles in Crash Landing on You, Secret Garden, and Memories of the Alhambra, Hyun Bin has captivated millions across Asia—and now he’s set to make his Philippine debut in spectacular fashion.

The event is not just a milestone for fans, but also for Solaire Resort, which is making headlines as a premier destination for world-class entertainment. Originally planned years ago but postponed due to the pandemic, Hyun Bin’s visit carries a sense of emotional fulfillment, both for the actor and his supporters who have waited patiently for the chance to see him in person. His presence in Manila promises not just glitz, but genuine connection—something fans of Korean drama deeply value.

Access to the event will be via an exclusive raffle open to guests who dine at Solaire’s restaurants. From July 1 to 31, every ₱2,000 single receipt at any bar or restaurant at Solaire Resort Entertainment City or Solaire Resort North will entitle guests to one raffle entry. To join, simply present the receipt at the designated raffle booth within the resort. A total of 500 winners—250 from each Solaire location—will be selected during a live draw on July 31 at 7 PM. Winners will be notified through SMS and email and may claim their tickets from July 31 to August 7. Tickets are transferable and non-convertible to cash, and best of all, multiple entries mean multiple chances to win.

Ahead of the event, Hyun Bin shared a warm video message addressed to his Filipino fans, expressing his gratitude for their years of support and his excitement to finally meet them. His sincerity struck a chord, making the upcoming event feel even more personal and anticipated.

For Solaire, this event is more than just a fan meet—it’s a statement of intent. By hosting a global star of Hyun Bin’s caliber, the resort strengthens its position as a top-tier entertainment hub in Southeast Asia. It offers not only luxury and leisure, but cultural moments that resonate beyond the glitz of the stage. Hyun Bin Lands at Solaire is not just a show—it’s a chance to be part of something memorable, emotional, and rare. So if you’re dreaming of locking eyes with one of K-drama’s biggest stars, it’s time to dine, collect those receipts, and hope the stars align.

For full mechanics and updates, visit solaireresort.com.

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BINONDO: A TSINOY MUSICAL review

As I walk inside the halls of The Theater at Solaire last Thursday for another theatrical preview, I was already prepared for cultural understanding despite of what's happening in the country today. Setting aside my political views and keep myself focused on appreciation of this work.

Joel Lamangan's Binondo: A Tsinoy Musical revolves around the love story of a man of pure Chinese descent and a Chinese-Filipina who embraced the foreign culture in search of love. The opening is expected to be grand and full of color, and delivered almost everything we know about the Chinese and the Chinoys in Binondo: that their network is so common, every one knows everybody and all their actions are based on feng shui mixed with religious faith.

Shiela Valderrama-Martinez plays Lily, a hopeful romantic singer at Lotus Bar makes a wish to the Chinese God of Love and finds Ah Tiong (Arman Ferrer) as he continues a song which she had forgotten a line. From there, things went fast and they both try to get across obstacles. But then there's Carlos (Noel Rayos), Lily's childhood friend who's secretly in love with her and shy to tell what he feels. As long as he sees the two together, he hides his pain. Though the story is about Ah Tiong and Lily, I am for Carlos on this one. If not for the political climate which stole the promise of returning back to China for some unfinished business, Lily will not be with Carlos. However, I think that Carlos has made huge sacrifices and that I think is true love.

That story line might be a huge spoiler for you who haven't seen Binondo. You will still enjoy the songs and production that this musical can offer. There are good laughs, cheesy romantic lines and colorful story. You can still see Binondo: A Tsinoy Musical today July 14, 3PM at the Theater at Solaire. For tickets, call TICKETWORLD at 891 9999.

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Sister Act preaching at Solaire's The Theater

"I will follow Him" would be the best hint to introduce the newest musical that will step into Solaire's gates to perform for the Manila audience. That's right, SISTER ACT, the glorious musical which starred Whoopi Goldberg in a nun costume and also featuring songs from Tony and Oscar award-winning composer Alan Menken will be staged in Solaire Resort and Casino's The Theater. It will be running from June 27 to July 9.

It's about a club singer, Deloris (played by Whoopi Goldberg in the movie), who has just witnessed a murder by her boyfriend Curtis which she reported to the police and put her into witness protection program. Under the care of the order of nuns of Our Lady of Perpetual Faith, she has committed her time by improving the choir into a contemporary perform which sooner became a hit in the community. When you hear the voices from the heavens, you will surely say, "Oh happy day!"

Ovation Productions proudly brings this musical for the Philippine audience, based on the 1992 film. Nominated for Tony and Lawrence Olivier awards in 2010 and 2011, including Best Musical, Best New Musical, Best Performance of an Actress for Patina Miller and Best Original Score. Watch I Will Follow Him below:

With only a limited two-week run, don’t miss this blissfully silly heavenly hit show.

The performance schedules of SISTER ACT are as follows:

June 27 – 8 pm - Opening Night (Tuesday)
June 28 – 8 pm – Gala Night (Wednesday)
June 29, June 30 – 8 pm (Thursday – Friday)
July 1 and 2 – 2 pm and 8 pm (Saturday – Sunday)
July 4, 5, 6 and 7 – 8 pm (Tuesday - Friday)
July 8 and 9 – 2 pm and 8 pm (Saturday – Sunday)

Call TICKETWORLD at 8919999 for tickets. Prices are Php 6500, 5500. 4500, 3500 and 1500.

And connect with SISTER ACT through the following: www.ovationproductionsmanila.com or on social media: Facebook.com/ovationproductions and twitter: @ovationprod

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