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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Stranger Things 5 Teaser Trailer: The Final Chapter Begins!

The wait is almost over, Stranger Things fans! The teaser trailer for Stranger Things 5 has dropped, and it’s already creating waves of excitement. This marks the final chapter of the series, and the stakes have never been higher. The trailer offers a glimpse into what’s to come, and it’s clear that the battle against the supernatural forces in Hawkins is about to intensify in ways we never imagined.

From the very first moments of the teaser, it’s clear that everything we’ve come to love about the series is still intact — the eerie atmosphere, the close-knit group of friends, and the terrifying mysteries surrounding Hawkins. However, things are darker and more dangerous than ever. The Upside Down is still a looming threat, and the group of kids we’ve watched grow up is facing their greatest challenges yet. The teaser hints at some heart-pounding moments, and it’s safe to say that the journey to uncover Hawkins' secrets is far from over.

One of the most chilling aspects of the teaser is the continued presence of Vecna, the terrifying villain who left an indelible mark on Stranger Things 4. His power over the group — especially Eleven — seems to be growing, and the trailer teases that this final showdown with him will be personal. As Vecna’s control tightens, fans are left wondering if Eleven will unlock the full extent of her abilities to defeat him or if the Upside Down’s reach has become too strong to escape. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the anticipation for this epic confrontation is through the roof.

While we don’t know all the details yet, it’s clear that Season 5 will explore even deeper layers of the story. With Hawkins still in danger and the group facing an onslaught of new threats, there’s no telling what lies ahead. The trailer gives us a glimpse of the emotional and physical toll this journey has taken on the characters, and it’s obvious that the endgame will push them to their limits. As the series comes to a close, fans are wondering how it will all tie together — how the mystery of Hawkins, the Upside Down, and the kids’ incredible powers will ultimately resolve.

We’ve also got the long-awaited release date to look forward to. Stranger Things 5 is set to premiere on these dates.

This final season is bound to be the most thrilling, emotional, and dramatic of them all, wrapping up the story in the epic way that only Stranger Things can.

Fans are already speculating about how things will end, and though we don’t have all the answers yet, one thing is for certain — Stranger Things 5 is shaping up to be the most intense season yet. As the final battle looms closer, we can only guess what twists and turns are in store. One thing’s for sure: the world of Hawkins and the Upside Down will never be the same again. 

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LG launches Next-Gen xboom speakers with AI Smart Sound and creative direction by will.i.am

Featuring balanced and warm signature sound plus AI Sound, AI Lighting, AI Calibration, and RAiDiO.FYI across the entire “xboom by will.i.am” lineup for a truly immersive audio experience

LG is redefining its sound experience with the launch of the new xboom lineup, an evolution from the bold power of XBOOM to a more elevated, design-forward approach to audio. Built for how people listen today, xboom blends sleek style, balanced acoustics, and smart features that adapt to any space, setting a new standard for portable sound.

Bringing this vision to life, LG partnered with global music icon will.i.am as the lineup’s Experiential Architect. A nine-time Grammy winner and innovator at the intersection of music and technology, will.i.am fine-tuned the xboom collection to deliver richer, warmer tones and a more immersive listening experience, infusing every detail with creativity, precision, and cultural edge.

LG xboom Stage 301
The LG xboom Stage 301 delivers immersive sound powered by a 6.5” woofer and 2.5” midranges, filling the room with deep bass and wide-stereo clarity. With 12 hours of playtime, it’s built to keep the music going all day and night.

It’s also IPX4-rated for water resistance, making it splash-proof and ready for anything, whether it’s a weekend get-together with friends or a classic karaoke night with the family. And with karaoke-ready mic controls and DJ effects accessible through the LG ThinQ app, turning any gathering into a full-on performance has never been easier.

LG xboom Bounce
The LG xboom Bounce lives up to its name, bringing powerful bass and vibrant energy that makes every beat feel like it’s in motion. Dual passive radiators and twin dome tweeters deliver lifelike clarity and rich detail, turning up the rhythm in any space. With an impressive 30-hour battery life, it’s built to keep the good times bouncing from sunrise to long after sunset.

Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, and tested to U.S. military standards, proven to pass all 7 durability tests including rain, vibration, impact, salt water spray, flooding, sand dust, and high temperature, it’s built for all kinds of spur-of-the-moment adventures. With its sleek design and grab-and-go strap, Bounce isn’t just a speaker, it’s your beat-on-the-go.

LG xboom Grab
Designed for outdoor fun, the LG xboom Grab packs crisp, dynamic sound through a high-performance 16mm dome tweeter, perfect for open-air playlists and on-the-go vibes. Its tube-shaped body is built for easy handling and adds a bold, modern edge to your look, while the stylish strap lets you carry or hang it with ease. 

Like the Bounce, it’s also rated IP67 for water and dust resistance and built to meet all the U.S. military durability standards, so you’re free to take it anywhere, rain or shine. With up to 20 hours of playtime, the Grab keeps your soundtrack going from morning hikes to late-night hangouts, proof that big sound can come in a small, adventure-ready package.

LG xboom Buds
The LG xboom Buds deliver rich, clear sound powered by a next-gen graphene-coated driver, bringing detailed, high-clarity audio straight to your ears. Whether you're on the move or in the zone, advanced noise cancellation blocks out traffic and road noise, while three mics, including two beamforming, keep your voice crystal clear on every call.

The xboom Buds app lets you customize your sound with EQ settings and works seamlessly across iOS and Android. With up to 30 hours of playtime and an IPX4 water-resistant rating, these buds are built to keep up, because great sound should move with you, not slow you down.

Smarter Listening with AI-Powered Features
Across the entire xboom lineup, LG integrates intelligent features that elevate your audio experience. AI Sound automatically adjusts settings based on genre, while AI Calibration optimizes output according to your space. AI Lighting detects music mood and syncs lighting effects, and with Auracast™ Party Link, you can pair with unlimited xboom speakers in just one tap to create an even bigger soundstage.

Life’s Good When Music Moves You
Whether it’s a party, a chill day outdoors, or just your favorite playlist at home, the new LG xboom by will.i.am lineup redefines how you enjoy music. With expertly tuned sound, Life’s Good when the volume is just right.

Life isn’t just about having the latest technology—it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at https://www.lg.com/ph/audio/xboom and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on https://www.linkedin.com/company/lg-electronics-philippines-inc/, www.facebook.com/LGPhilippines/, www.instagram.com/lgphilippines/ and www.tiktok.com/@lgphilippines.

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Timeless: A Filipiniana Bridal Exhibit at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby

The Manila Hotel, in partnership with Designers Circle Philippines (DCP), presents Timeless, an exhibit of modern Filipiniana bridal gowns, on display at the hotel’s iconic Grand Lobby until August 7, 2025.

Celebrating the elegance of the Filipino love story, Timeless brings together nine esteemed designers from DCP: Edwin Uy, Rafael Gonzales, Bepz Torres, Joy Aaliwin, Laura Santos, Alistair Balane, Ganda Anore, Will Salvador, and Johnny Abad. Each designer offers a unique interpretation of the traditional Filipiniana silhouette, reimagined with contemporary
sophistication. From voluminous ruffles and intricate beadwork to modern necklines and
romantic lace, the exhibit highlights the evolving artistry of Filipino bridal fashion.

“This is the first time The Manila Hotel and Designers Circle Philippines have partnered in an all-Filipiniana bridal exhibit. The collection honors heritage while embracing innovation, reflecting the same values that The Manila Hotel upholds. As the Grand Dame of the Philippines, we continue to champion Filipino artistry and cultural pride while adapting to the tastes of the modern generation,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

Set beneath the chandeliers and arches of the historic Grand Lobby, Timeless invites brides-to-be, fashion enthusiasts, and culture lovers to witness the craftsmanship of modern Filipino design.

Timeless is on display at the Grand Lobby until August 7, 2025. Admission is free.

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PascualLab Receives Its First Medal of Recognition at the League of Corporate Foundations’ 2025 CSR Expo

Ramon Derige, League of Corporate Foundations Treasurer & SEAOIL Foundation, Inc. Executive Director; Ana Carlos Chair, League of Corporate Foundations Environment Committee - Chair & TELUS International CSR Team Leader, TELUS International Philippines Foundation, Inc.; German Camigla Fluor Daniel Inc., Philippines Executive Director, Information Technology and Executive Sponsor, Philippines Community Affairs ; Marianne Johanna Ferrer de Vera, PascualLab Corporate Communications Manager; and Nathaniel George Hipolito Manila Water Foundation, Inc. Environment Committee - Vice-Chair, League of Corporate Foundations & Program Operations Manager

Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab), one of the well-loved Filipino-owned pharmaceutical companies,¹ inspired with a vision for Strong, Healthy families, recently received its first-ever Medal of Recognition from the prestigious League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) at the Dusit Thani in Makati. For helping pursue the triple bottom line of People, Planet, and Productivity for all through its own CSR program Sowing to Empower, Educate, and Develop (S.E.E.D.) - the LCF - the Filipino network of organizations supporting sectors in need, bestowed PascualLab a Medal of Recognition for excellence in CSR focus areas, including the environment and sustainable agriculture.

Anchored on the theme, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity for Shared Prosperity”, this year’s expo awarded member-organizations the Guild Award and non-member organizations the Medal of Recognition which PascualLab received alongside Fluor Daniels Foundation. While PascualLab has been pushing for Environmental, Social, and Environmental Goals (ESGs) long before the concept came to fore, this is the first external validation that PascualLab is on the right track in its health, education, and environment initiatives which include eco-friendly & inclusive agricultural practices. According to LCF Chairperson Shem Jose Garcia, the CSR Expo awards “creates space for collaboration and leveraging our collective strengths, especially in today’s society, where true success goes beyond efficiency and optimization to nurturing people and the communities we affect. That is how we achieve shared prosperity.” PascualLab is the home of family-friendly and quality products such as Poten-Cee, Ascof Lagundi, C-Lium Fibre, and OraCare Mouthrinse.

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Shop Now or Wait 'Til Next Year: 3-Day Sale at SM City Masinag is here!

 Shop big from July 18 to 20 and get a chance to drive home a Suzuki Jimny!

Attention, shoppers! This is it—the most-awaited midyear SM 3-Day Sale of the year at SM City Masinag, and it’s your last chance in 2025 to score up to 70% off on your favorite brands and join the raffle for a brand-new Suzuki Jimny 5-Door GL MT!

On July 18, 19, and 20, from 10AM to 10PM, the entire mall goes on massive markdown—whether you’re eyeing gadgets, fashion, home must-haves, or back-to-school essentials, now is the time to buy it. With every ₱1,000 purchase = 1 e-raffle entry, and double entries on Saturday and Sunday, you not only save more—you could literally drive away with more!

Here's what’s waiting for you at SM City Masinag 3-Day Sale:

• Up to 70% OFF on select items across participating stores and SM affiliates. Special in-store promos and sulit deals for 3 days only.
• Shop and get a chance to win a Suzuki Jimny just by shopping! Every ₱1,000 = 1 e-raffle entry.
• Register your receipts at https://smofficial.page.link/RaffleEntry . Only valid purchases made at SM City Masinag from July 18-20 are eligible. Deadline for raffle registration: July 20 at 9:45 PM.

Whether you’re an ultimate sale seeker or just out to treat yourself—the SM City Masinag 3-Day Sale is your ticket to big savings and maybe even bigger wins.

Let’s make it a budol-worthy weekend—see you at SM City Masinag, and let’s get together here!

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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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