Review: Ang Medea – A Raw and Powerful Return to Ancient Tragedy

Me with the whole cast

Teatro Meron’s Ang Medea brings back one of the oldest and most emotional tragedies in theater. The story, written by Euripides around 600 BC, follows Medea, a woman who gave up her home and family for the man she loves. When that man betrays her, she is left with nothing. Her pain and anger push her toward a heartbreaking decision that shocks everyone.

Director Ron Capinding keeps his passion for classical plays alive in this version. He shows that even an ancient story can reflect what people still experience today such as betrayal, injustice, and the fight to keep one’s dignity. This production is also extra special because it is the very first full theater show to be staged inside The Mind Museum. This unique venue adds to the experience, making Ang Medea feel fresh, bold, and unforgettable.

 
Director Ron Capinding

The staging is very simple, which works perfectly. Without big sets or complicated props, the focus stays on the actors and the emotions of the story. This simplicity gives the material more depth and makes every moment feel more intense.

Miren Alvarez-Fabregas delivers an exceptionally powerful Medea, carrying the emotional core of the play with honesty and depth. She shows every layer of the character: a woman who once loved fiercely, a mother fighting for dignity, and a betrayed partner whose world has completely fallen apart. Her shifts from quiet sorrow to explosive anger feel natural and controlled, making each moment land with full emotional force. Even in silence, she communicates Medea’s pain through her eyes, voice, and presence.

What makes her performance unforgettable is the vulnerability beneath her rage. Miren shows not just a furious woman, but someone who feels abandoned, cornered, and stripped of choices. She balances strength and brokenness in a way that makes the audience feel deep sympathy for her, even as the story grows darker. Her commanding presence elevates every scene and anchors the entire production, proving why Medea remains one of the most haunting and complicated figures in classical drama.

Miren Alvarez-Fabregas as Medea

Yan Yuzon’s take on Yason is striking, making him a character you instantly love to hate. He plays the role with a smooth confidence that slowly reveals selfishness and emotional blindness, bringing out the full sting of Medea’s betrayal. His controlled delivery and presence make Yason feel real and painfully believable.

Joseph Dela Cruz as Egeo offers a warm and sincere contrast. His performance brings calm, compassion, and stability to the story, showing the kindness Medea no longer receives from anyone else. Subtle but steady, he grounds the play and adds emotional balance to its most intense moments.

The sound work is flawless. It supports the scenes without distracting from the story and adds to the emotional pull of the play.

Overall, Ang Medea is a simple yet powerful production that proves how timeless this story is. It is both heartbreaking and thought provoking.

Catch the remaining shows of Ang Medea at The Mind Museum Special Exhibition Hall in Bonifacio Global City. Tickets are available through https://tinyurl.com/angmedea.

November 23 (Sunday) - 3:00PM and 7:00PM
November 27 (Thursday), November 28 (Friday) - 8:00PM

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When Art Meets Science: Teatro Meron’s Ang Medea Ignites the Mind Museum

This November, the worlds of art and science converge under one roof as Teatro Meron brings fire and fury to The Mind Museum. Known primarily as a hub for scientific discovery, the museum will, for the first time, transform into a stage for live theater.

In collaboration with Eastern Communications and Tunog at Liwanag sa Teatro Inc. (TLT), Teatro Meron presents Ang Medea, National Artist Rolando Tinio’s Filipino adaptation of Euripides’ classic tragedy Medea. The production marks a bold fusion of intellect, artistry, and human emotion, bridging myth and modern reflection.

Following a well-received run with Tanghalang Ateneo, director and Teatro Meron founder Ron Capinding returns to the piece, leading a strong ensemble headed by Miren Alvarez-Fabregas, who earned critical acclaim for her portrayal of the vengeful Medea.

Explaining his decision to revisit the material, Capinding reflects, “There’s so much to learn from a classic like Medea. Some plays reflect the present, others uncover the past, and a few imagine what’s to come. A true classic can do all of that—and even more.”

In this retelling, Ang Medea confronts the fragility of human dignity and the devastating choices it can inspire. The story centers on Medea, a woman who gives up her homeland for Yason, only to be betrayed and cast out in a foreign land that never truly accepted her. Her struggle contrasts sharply with Yason’s belief that dignity can be traded for power, privilege, and ambition.

Opposite Alvarez-Fabregas is Brian Sy, a seasoned actor recognized for his work in Ang Duyan ng Magiting (2023), GomBurZa (2023), and Midnight in a Perfect World (2020). Alternating in the role of Yason is Yan Yuzon, who previously played the same part to praise for his intensity and emotional range—from blistering fury to aching remorse.

Cast led by Miren Alvarez-Fabregas

Ang Medea will run at the Mind Museum Special Exhibition Hall, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) on these dates:
• November 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 | 8:00 PM
• November 15, 22 | 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM
• November 16, 23 | 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM

A rising force in Philippine theater, Teatro Meron aims to rekindle the relevance of classical works— sparking thought, empathy, and conversation among modern Filipino audiences.

Capinding elaborates on his company’s vision:
“I want to stage not only great classics, but also modern and contemporary plays that share their timeless spirit—pieces that entertain, enlighten, and uplift. In Filipino, nakaaaliw, nakatatalino, at nakapagpapabuti.”

The production also features Teroy Guzman (Kreon), Joseph Dela Cruz (Egeo), Katski Flores (Yaya), Joel Macaventa (Maestro), and Gold Soon and Pickles Leonidas (Koro).

Behind the scenes, Tata Tuviera designs the set, Ian Bautista handles lighting, and Zak Capinding crafts the soundscape. Gabrielle Barredo leads production management, with Mar Suesmith as stage manager, Albriz Bagsic as technical director, and Santi Caruncho providing graphic design.

Tickets are available at https://tinyurl.com/angmedea.


For updates, visit www.teatromeron.com or follow @teatromeron on Facebook and Instagram.

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Dulaang UP pays tribute to Tony Mabesa in twin bill ‘Para Kay Tony’

After the success of Nanay Bangis and Mga Anak ng Unos, Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (Dulaang UP) returns to the stage by paying tribute to its founder and National Artist for Theater Antonio ‘Tony’ Mabesa. The tribute, titled Para kay Tony: Tungo sa Ginintuang Alaala, is a twin bill showcasing two productions that capture the spirit of Dulaang UP’s nearly five-decade history.

The first half of the twin bill is a staging of Kalahating Oras sa Isang Kumbento by legendary Filipino playwright Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero as translated by Lilia F. Antonio. The story follows Yolanda, a student at a convent school, who seeks comfort and companionship after being expelled.

UP Diliman Theatre Arts student Lloyd Sarmiento Uy serves as director, alongside director-mentor Erika Estacio. The cast includes Kris Caaya, Rona Lynne, Jan Magcaling, Paulyn Abando, Janna Talampas, Gena Suelto, and Sheryll Ceasico.

The second play in Para kay Tony features National Artist Rolando Tinio’s May Katwiran ang Katwiran. The plot centers on Senyor, a wealthy haciendero who persuades his servant to join him on a journey across the mountains. Along the way, they encounter obstacles that threaten their survival. The staging is led by Theatre Arts student MJ Briones with director-mentor Charles Yee. Acting in the play are Francheska Andaya, Julianne Quimio, Akin Cullarin, Pat Ebro, Kerr Allen, Camille Fabian, and Daniel Duplon.

Para Kay Tony is part of Dulaang UP’s 48th theatre season “Paano umuwi nang may pagpapasya?” The season is part of a multi-year initiative building to Dulaang UP’s 50th anniversary. Since its inception in 1976, Dulaang UP has been staging classic and experimental plays while providing a platform of artistic expression for the UP Diliman community.

Catch Para Kay Tony at the IBG-KAL Theater, University of the Philippines Diliman, on the following dates: November 15, 22, and 29 (2:30 PM & 7:30 PM) November 20, 21, 27, and 28 (7:30 PM) November 16, 23, and 30 (10:30 AM & 2:30 PM)

Tickets are priced at Php 1000 each and can be purchased through TicketMelon at bit.ly/DUPParaKayTony.

Interested patrons may also buy tickets onsite at the Dulaang UP Office at Pavilion 3, Palma Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman. UP students, faculty, and staff can enjoy a discounted rate of Php 500. If you’re interested in sponsoring student beneficiaries to watch Para Kay Tony, you may check bit.ly/DUP48_PKT_SponsorADreamer for inquiries.

For further information, contact dulaangup.marketing.upd@up.edu.ph. Sponsorship inquiries such as audience sponsorship and bulk tickets may be addressed to Ms. Anna Gamboa through the same email or through dulaangup_sponsorship.upd@up.edu.ph.

Dulaang UP may also be reached through phone at (02) 898 18500 loc 2449.

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Moudifa The Musical takes flight soon!

Empowered by courage. Defined by dreams. A Filipina’s journey beyond borders.

The cast of Moudifa: The Musical with writer and executive producer Margarita Marquis
and director Jag Cruz

The word “Moudifa” comes from the Arabic “مدیفة,” meaning servicewoman or attendant. In aviation, it refers to a flight attendant—someone who ensures passengers’ comfort and safety. “Moudifa Atyara” translates to flight attendant, and in this musical, she represents the countless Filipinas who bravely serve overseas while carrying hope and dignity in their hearts.

Inspired by the best-selling book “Moudifa!: Culture Shock from the Top” by Margarita Marquis, the musical brings to life the story of a Filipina flight attendant in 1980s Saudi Arabia. Through love, loss, and rediscovery, she learns to embrace her identity and inner strength in a world of cultural contrasts.

Portrayed by Jassy Calupitan (younger Moudifa) and Angie Bonnevie (older Moudifa), her journey unfolds through music and memory. Four men shape her emotional growth—the Pilot, the French Man, the Prince, and the Football Player—each teaching her a different kind of love and resilience.

Jassy Calupitan and Angie Bonnevie share the role of Moudifa

Genesis Delos Santos as The Football Player

Yuan Fuerte as The Prince

Ryle Mendez as The Pilot

Ferds Petrasanta as The Frenchman

The production celebrates Filipina empowerment, compassion, and artistry, blending heartfelt OPM ballads with Middle Eastern-inspired melodies composed by Margarita Marquis herself.

Directed by Jag Cruz and produced by Nette S. Muescan and Mabuhay PH Digital Network, Moudifa the Musical is a heartfelt tribute to every Filipina who serves, sacrifices, and soars beyond borders.

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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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Meet Arnel, the Original Conyo Boy of Bagets The Musical

The barkada of Bagets The Musical just got bigger—and a little more polished. The spotlight now falls on Arnel, the suave teen first portrayed by Raymond Lauchengco in the 1984 classic. Torn between his own dreams and his mother’s high expectations, Arnel returns to the stage for a new generation, this time brought to life by Ethan David and KD Estrada.

Ethan David Steps Into the Role
Known for his work with the P-pop group G.A.T. and TV credits like Seducing Drake Palma, Ang Mutya ng Section E, and Avenues of the Diamond, Ethan David is no stranger to performing. Yet theater presents a fresh challenge.

“I did theater abroad, but since coming home, I’ve focused more on screen work,” he shares. “On TV, subtle expressions can work. On stage, I have to make my movements bigger and project my voice for the audience.”

 

Rather than shy away, Ethan leans in—training his voice, building stamina, and channeling Arnel’s loyalty to his friends. “Arnel’s always all-out for his barkada,” he says. “I want the audience to feel that energy and see he’s there for them, whether in big gestures or small ones.”

Like his character, Ethan knows what it’s like to wrestle with big choices. “Despite his flaws, I hope the audience sees how he musters up courage and motivates others to do the same,” he adds.

KD Estrada Finds His Match
For KD Estrada, stepping into Arnel’s shoes feels almost effortless. “When I auditioned, my number one pick was Arnel because I see myself in him,” he says. “If he were real right now, he would be exactly like me.”

KD admires Arnel’s quiet strength—fun but responsible, never one to give in to peer pressure. “In the film, you can always see his hesitance,” he notes. “He doesn’t just do things because they’re ‘in.’”

 

That self-awareness comes with a cost, something KD understands. “I’m grateful to have a strong support system at home,” he shares. “But we all go through that phase where we don’t know whether to follow our own dreams or what other people want for us.”

This marks KD’s second theater outing after his debut in Walang Aray with Alexa Ilacad. He’s also appeared in series such as Unloving You, Bola Bola, Run to Me, and Pira-pirasong Paraiso. His biggest takeaway from playing Arnel? “The friends you make in high school are some of the best friends you’ll ever have.”

A Timeless Coming-of-Age Story
Arnel’s journey proves that the struggles of growing up—finding courage, balancing expectations, and staying true to yourself—never really fade. With Ethan David and KD Estrada sharing the role, his story is set to resonate with both longtime fans and first-time viewers.

Bagets The Musical runs January 23 to March 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, with more cast reveals coming soon. Joining David and Estrada are Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez as Gilbert, and Milo Cruz and Migo Valid as Tonton.

Produced by VIVA Communications Inc., The Philippine STAR, and Newport World Resorts, and guided by the creative team of PETA Plus—director Maribel Legarda, playwright J-mee Katanyag, and musical director Vince Lim—this new staging promises to capture the heart and nostalgia of the original film.

Be first in line for tickets by joining the waitlist at newportworldresorts.com/bagets-musical-waitlist, and follow @vivaartistsagency, @philippinestar, and @newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates.

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Theater Review: Shorts & Briefs by Night Festival

Stepping into Café Shylo feels like entering a friend’s living room: intimate, warm, and only a foot away from the performers. The nearness heightens every glance and gesture, creating an almost tactile connection between actors and audience. A thoughtful touch was the presence of sign language interpreters, a gesture of inclusivity that deserves applause.

Below are the evening’s six short plays—distinct in voice, daring in subject, and bound by the festival’s playful spirit.

1. SH*T
Jeremi Flores’ script follows a gay couple trying to steady their relationship while raising an adopted child, even as old wounds from judgmental parents resurface. Director Phi Palmos delivers a quietly powerful debut, balancing tenderness and tension. It’s a story of love’s limits—how sometimes we sacrifice even what we cherish most for the sake of those we love.

2. Reklamasyon Headquarters
Who knew a comedy about male and female genitals could be both educational and hilarious? Through witty dialogue and clever costume design, the play imagines private parts suddenly able to speak their minds. The result is a cheeky takedown of sexual taboos and a reminder to respect our own bodies.

3. The Red Hotel
A chance encounter between a call boy and a devout churchgoer becomes an unexpected dance of flirtation, shame, and mutual respect. The performers tease and charm their way from awkward small talk to a consensual revelation of their wilder sides. It’s funny, daring, and surprisingly sweet.

4. Ang Babae at ang Mangga
This whimsical piece is a mythical love story—complete with a gender-flipped manananggal. Here, the man is the shy winged creature, while the woman is delightfully uninhibited. Both humorous and subversive, it playfully normalizes frank talk about sexuality and desire.

5. Josefino at ang Estatwa
Romance and poetry intertwine in this elegant tale reminiscent of the Machete legend. The writing is lyrical, almost dreamlike, offering intimacy without vulgarity. It’s a gentle reminder that sensual storytelling can be both tasteful and mesmerizing.

6. Warla Arena
The finale is the festival’s boldest piece—a drag-queen spectacle that feels like Face 2 Face colliding with a fetish fair. Toy-centered fantasies take the spotlight, and while no nudity appears, the suggestiveness is unmistakable. It’s playful, provocative, and impossible to look away from.

The Shorts & Briefs Festival thrives on audacity and variety. From tender domestic drama to gleeful sexual comedy, it embraces topics that Philippine theater often tiptoes around. Its close-quarters setup turns each performance into a shared secret between actor and audience, proving that intimacy—both emotional and physical—can be the most powerful stage of all.

Tickets for the Shorts & Briefs Festival are priced at ₱750, which already includes a complimentary drink and admission to all six plays in one sitting. The festival runs from September 20 to October 5, 2025, with performances every weekend at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM at Café Shylo in Pasig (Showroom by Projects Unlimited, Skyway Twin Towers Condominium). To reserve a seat, simply send a Viber message to 0919-487-3983 and follow the instructions provided. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited and the space’s intimate setup fills quickly. For updates and confirmations, follow Eksena PH on Facebook or Instagram. Please note that the festival is strictly for audiences 18 years old and above.

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Six Bold Stories, One Unforgettable Night: Shorts and Briefs by Night Returns

Taboo. Sexy. And just a little unexpected. The country’s most daring festival of short plays is back, bringing six provocative pieces in a single ticketed experience. Shorts & Briefs by Night once again champions first-time playwrights, new directors, and fresh talent, promising an evening of surprises for adventurous theatergoers.

Here’s a peek at the sizzling lineup:

 

1. The Red Hotel

Cast: Khaye Paje, Warden Malaya
Writer: Aeriel Madriaga (Miss A) | Director: Rye Capulong
A Christian woman who’s never had a boyfriend finds herself in a setup planned by friends—meeting a stranger meant to seduce her. But as sparks fly, the night takes an unexpected turn.

2. Ang Babae at ang Mangga
Cast: Mika O’Hara, Cullen Landicho
Writer: John Custer | Director: Tads Obach-Acosta
A playful encounter unfolds between a woman and a mango that isn’t quite what it seems.

 

3. Josefino at ang Estatwa
Cast: Rozel Basilio, Kiko Mariano
Writer: Francis Panes | Director: Ingrid Joyce
An artist sculpts a statue as beautiful as the Blessed Virgin. When he longs for it to come alive, a mysterious miracle—or delusion—begins.

4. SH*T!
Cast: Philip Macabantad, Quiel Campo
Writer: Jeremi Flores | Director: Phillip Bracero Palmo
Bondage, role play, and family secrets collide as Louis and Fino return home to a revelation about their son—dancing through passion, trauma, and unexpected love.

 

5. Warla Arena

Cast: Salmo Nella, Kriszan Manipon, JB
Director: Tom Navarro | Musical Arrangement: Vanessa Dulay
A wife confronts a robot accused of stealing her husband’s affection in a no-holds-barred talk show showdown.

 
6. Reklamasyon Headquarters
Cast: Monique Louise Maglaqui, Jonnel Empinado, Sidrey Omer A. Apita
Writer: Lewor Sotis | Director: Mark Norman Boquiren
In a place where complaints become revolution, two ordinary people rise up to demand the respect they deserve.

Admission is strictly for audiences 18 years old and above. A single ticket priced at PHP 750 grants access to all six plays and includes a complimentary drink. Shows run from September 20 to October 5, 2025, with performances at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM at Cafe Shylō in Pasig. To secure your seat, reservations are accepted exclusively via Viber at 0919 487 3983.

Experience a night of fearless storytelling and fresh artistry—because sometimes the shortest plays leave the deepest impression.

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Newport World Resorts gives Bagets' Gilbert

Newport World Resorts has officially revealed the first members of the barkada for its highly anticipated stage musical Bagets, inspired by the iconic 1984 teen film. Taking on the role of Gilbert—the shy but mischievous heart of the ‘80s clique originally played by Herbert Bautista—are two exciting young talents who promise to bring their own spark to the character.

Tomas Rodriguez, a rising name in the P-pop scene, will make his theater debut as Gilbert. Known as a member of the chart-topping boy group Alamat, Tomas has wowed fans nationwide with his smooth vocals and dynamic dance skills. Alamat’s distinct blend of modern pop and proudly Filipino flair has taken them to major music festivals and TV appearances, making Tomas a natural fit for the energy and nostalgia of Bagets.

 

 

Tomas shares his process in auditioning for the role.

Sharing the role is Noel Comia Jr., a multi-talented actor and singer whose credentials span both stage and screen. Noel is no stranger to theater, having earned critical acclaim for performances in productions such as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Matilda, and The Secret Garden. His versatility and powerhouse vocals have also made him a fixture in concerts and musicals across the country, ensuring that his take on Gilbert will be heartfelt and memorable.

 

Ticket prices will be announced soon. For updates on show schedules and exclusive previews, follow Newport World Resorts on their official social media channels. This fresh, music-filled revival of Bagets is set to bring back the vibrant spirit of the ‘80s—don’t miss your chance to relive the era with a whole new generation of stars coming this 2026.

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Theater Review: PETA’s “Walang Aray”

I was invited to the special press preview of PETA’s Walang Aray, a musical based on Severino Reyes’ classic zarzuela Walang Sugat. While rooted in tradition, the show uses humor and updated punch lines inspired by today’s headlines, making it lively, entertaining, and easy for younger audiences to relate to.

The cast of PETA's "Walang Aray" 2025

The cast delivered performances that made the story fresh and engaging. Trans actress Lance Reblando gave a breakout performance as Julia. She not only showed powerful vocals but also an emotional depth that made her character unforgettable. Her ability to shift from comedic timing to heartfelt moments was impressive, and it’s the kind of stage presence that earns genuine standing ovations.

Lance Reblado as Julia and Gio Gahol as Tenyong

Gio Gahol, who is no stranger to the role of Tenyong, once again proved why he fits the part so well. His familiarity with the character allowed him to bring ease, confidence, and natural charm to the stage. As the leading man, he remains a strong presence to watch out for, balancing humor and sincerity in his delivery.

Jolina Magdangal, in her first musical theater role as Juana, proved she can hold her own on stage. She owned every scene she was in and showed great promise. Similarly, Ice Seguerra’s take on Lucas was heartfelt and engaging, reminding the audience of his strength as both singer and actor. It was clear both Jolina and Ice brought their personal stamp to their characters, making them stand out despite limited spotlight.

The rest of the ensemble also gave strong support: Kiki Baento (Monica), Johnnie Moran (Padre Alfaro), Bene Manaois (Miguel), and Gie Onida (Don Tadeo) each brought humor and energy that made the show fun from start to finish.

Ensemble

Fans can now also enjoy Walang Aray beyond the theater with the official cast recording, now streaming on Spotify. Produced in partnership with Soundesign Manila, the album features songs by Vince Lim such as “Front Act,” “Pangako ’Yan,” “Huwag Mo Akong Saktan,” “Tipo Kong Lalaki,” “Luv U 4 Ever,” “Walang Aray Finale,” and the newly released “Tumindig at Lumaban” with “Bayan Ko.” It’s a fun way to relive the show and sing along with the cast anytime.

Overall, Walang Aray proves how a classic can be retold in a way that feels both timeless and modern. With Lance Reblando’s powerhouse performance, Gio Gahol’s confident leading man turn, and the delightful presence of Jolina Magdangal and Ice Seguerra, the show is both entertaining and meaningful—a must-watch on the PETA stage.

Walang Aray runs until October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater. For more show information, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater. Tickets are available via ticket2me.net.

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