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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The Sandbox Collective opens its 2026 slate with SPRING AWAKENING

Spring Awakening marks the first show under Sab Jose-Gregorio’s leadership

The Sandbox Collective will open its 2026 Season with the Tony Award-winning rock musical, SPRING AWAKENING. The musical is set to open in February 2026 at a brand new theater: The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Center, Makati City.

Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, with book and lyrics by Steven Sater and music by Grammy Award-nominated recording artist Duncan Sheik, SPRING AWAKENING is a contemporary rock musical based on the Frank Wedekind play of the same name.

Set in 19th-century Germany, it tells the stories of teenagers exploring their burgeoning sexualities and rapidly-changing bodies. But seeking answers to the mysteries of life proves challenging in the face of uncommunicative parents, rigid institutions, and conservative society. Set to an electrifying alternative rock score by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater, Spring Awakening channels its characters' adolescent frustrations and repressions into the angst and power of being a young person in the 21st century.

SPRING AWAKENING explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with a poignancy and passion that is illuminating and unforgettable. The landmark musical is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock and roll that has captivated audiences all over the world.

With direction by Gawad Buhay nominee Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan (The Sandbox Collective’s Lungs, Sa Wakas, Fringe Manila) and musical direction by the multi-awarded Ejay Yatco (The Sandbox Collective’s Side Show, Next to Normal, Little Shop of Horrors), SPRING AWAKENING marks The Sandbox Collective’s first production under the leadership of incoming artistic director, Sab Jose, who hopes to stir conversation, empower audiences and drive the company’s education and advocacy initiatives.

With Pamintuan at the helm, the artistic team will also include Nunoy Van Den Burgh as choreographer, Missy Maramara as intimacy director, Wika Nadera as set designer, Raven Ong as costume designer, Gabbi Campomanes as assistant director, and D Cortezano as lighting designer.

Jose shares, “Spring Awakening marks the beginning of a new chapter here at Sandbox. While it honors the journey we’ve had in the last decade – the coming of age and constant rediscovery – it also marks a deliberate choice to continue producing shows that are radical, brave and advocacy-driven. This show isn’t just about adolescence and sexuality. It’s about reclaiming one’s body, voice and destiny and most of all, educating and empowering young audiences.”

OPEN CALL
The Sandbox Collective will hold open auditions for SPRING AWAKENING on August 31 and September 1, 2025. Interested applicants may access the audition guide and registration page here: https://www.thesandboxco.com/spring-2026

SPRING AWAKENING is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), New York, NY, USA.

For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok. You may visit our website www.thesandboxco.com and social media platforms: www.facebook.com/TheSandboxCollective, www.instagram.com/thesandboxco, www.tiktok.com/@thesandboxco

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Theater Review: FEU Theater Guild’s "Karne"

I had the chance to watch FEU Theater Guild’s Karne, their powerful interpretation of Roald Dahl’s Lamb to the Slaughter, and I’m still in awe of this production.

Director Dudz Teraña with the cast of FTG's "Karne"

From the moment you step into the theater, you’re transported into a barrio home preparing for Christmas. A glowing capiz parol, twinkling lights on the fence, and a modest Christmas tree instantly set the mood. Before the show even begins, Mary (Julia Nicole Banaag) is already onstage, quietly observing the audience as they trickle in. Then, almost without notice, she moves to the working kitchen and starts chopping garlic and onions, blurring the line between performance and reality.

An actual working kitchen on set!

It isn’t just what you see that pulls you in. Soon, the savory aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in butter fills the theater. This sensory detail is unexpected but brilliant; it awakens your appetite and curiosity about what’s about to unfold. Later, the media and select audience members were even able to taste the adobo cooked onstage, making the experience not just theatrical but communal and deeply Filipino.

The play follows Mary, reeling from the sudden murder of her husband, Police Captain Patrick Patrosa (RB Pascua), a domineering military man whose pride and temper cast long shadows over their marriage. Three policemen—Lieutenant Elnar (Arvin Javier), Patrolman Enopia (Justin Abalos), and Patrolman Credo (Kirstan Orbegoso)—interrogate her, but their investigation also unravels layers of gossip and judgment from Mary’s circle of friends: Dante (Jharelle Villalobos), Ellen (Maria Ysabel Delos Reyes), and Maloi (Bjorn Pestaño). Their conversations, written in a mix of Tagalog, Bisaya, and English, capture the rhythm of everyday Filipino chismis. Instead of creating barriers, the shifting languages enrich the story and make it more authentic.

Patrick is written as the man you “love to hate.” Pascua’s sharp delivery, commanding presence, and toxic pride heighten the tension each time he enters the scene. In contrast, Banaag’s Mary radiates meekness and quiet warmth, especially when she is with her spirited friends. Their lively banter, along with the playful teasing of Estang (Helena Li), provides much-needed lightness against the play’s darker undercurrents. Samuel (Julian Anabo) and Mrs. Poblacion (Cassandra Herilla) also add depth to the social fabric of the story, showing how gossip, loyalty, and perception shape community life.

The world of Patrick’s military life also comes into focus, with clever nods to law enforcement culture and practices in the late 1970s. This period setting adds depth, inviting the audience to reflect on authority, control, and the lingering echoes of that era in today’s systems. During the post-show talkback, the creative choice to set the play in this decade became even clearer through the music, costumes, and cultural touchpoints woven seamlessly into the production.

A standout achievement is the set itself: a fully functional kitchen ingeniously built from recycled materials in the FTG warehouse. This sustainable approach shows resourcefulness without sacrificing realism. Under the guidance of director Dudz Teraña, the students were able to grasp the nuances of the time period, the metaphors of Dahl’s story, and the cultural resonances of their adaptation.

Me with the cast of FTG's Karne

Karne is a testament to the FEU Theater Guild’s creativity, discipline, and collaborative spirit. That such an ambitious, multi-sensory, and thought-provoking play was staged by a cast and crew composed mostly of students makes the production even more remarkable. It is both a triumph for the Guild and an inspiring reminder of how young theater artists can breathe new life into classic stories. To build on this momentum, Teraña has revealed that the next FTG season production will be Lord of the Flies, another bold choice that promises to challenge both performers and audiences.

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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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