2TinCans Philippines and Marco Polo Plaza Cebu bring Love, Loss, and What I Wore to the stage

Clothes are never just clothes. They carry our memories, mark our milestones, and often speak when words fall short.

2TinCans Philippines, Cebu’s premier theatre communications company, and Marco Polo Plaza Cebu bring the power of storytelling to life with a heartfelt production of Love, Loss, and What I Wore, happening at 8 PM on August 16 and 17 at the Grand Ballroom of Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, Nivel Hills, Apas, Cebu City.

Written by sisters Nora and Delia Ephron, and based on the book by Ilene Beckerman, Love, Loss, and What I Wore is a heartwarming and hilarious collection of monologues and ensemble pieces about women, clothes, and memory. The play uses clothing and accessories as a time capsule of a woman’s life — from prom dresses and purses to shoes and wedding gowns. Told through the voices of a rotating cast of women, the stories explore poignant and humorous moments tied to identity, relationships, heartbreak, family, and self-discovery.

Directed by Charlene Virlouvet, this Cebu staging features members of the 2TinCans Theatre Company—Liana San Diego, Mikee Amagsila, Regina Binueza, Shanice Kae Suarez, Shifrah Bouchikhi-Enclona, and Vanessa Fe.

Also joining the cast are 2TinCans Producing Artistic Director Sarah Mae Enclona- Henderson; language school directress Aleah Alerre Lim; award-winning journalist Andi Pateña-Matheu; multi-awarded social entrepreneur Anya Lim; beauty queen and singer-songwriter Victoria Leslie Ingram; and lawyer -- Elaine Bathan, College of Law Asst.

Dean and former Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism; retired lawyer Gingging Navarro-Laude, and; public servant, social media personality, and LGBTQIA+ champion Regal Oliva.

“Every woman has a dress that reminds her of something—her first love, her mother, her divorce, her power. This play gives voice to those hidden hangers in our closets,” said Henderson.

Director Virlouvet described the play as a timely reflection on the generational experiences of women. “This play can bridge the disconnect amongst generations of women. It can be a space for intergenerational conversations and sharing,” she shared.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu General Manager Maximilian Schwalbe emphasized the hotel’s growing engagement with the local community. “We want to host more cultural and social events like this for Cebuanos,” he said. Schwalbe also noted that ticket holders will enjoy special perks, including discounted room rates and dining privileges at all Marco Polo restaurants from August 15 to 18.

Complementing the performance is Stitched, a storytelling exhibit featuring a curated collection of clothes and accessories, each accompanied by a personal story that reveals its deeper meaning. “The goal is to show that fashion is more than just fabric; it’s a vessel for memory,” said Henderson.

In a world that’s constantly changing, Love, Loss, and What I Wore invites us to pause and remember who we are, where we've been, and how far we've come. Get your tickets at 2tincans-philippines.yapsody.com now!

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CCP and BOGT Philippines present 13 of September on August 10

A Fundraising Send-Off Show Before Representing the Philippines at the Mondial du Théâtre in Monaco

BOGT Philippines is proudly bringing its internationally recognized play, 13th of September, to the 18th Mondial du Théâtre in Monaco this August 20–27, 2025. To help fund this landmark participation, a special fundraising send-off performance will be held on August 10 (Sunday) at 3 PM and 7 PM at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, Cultural Center of the Philippines. Tickets are priced at Php 1,000 (center) and Php 800 (sides) and are available via Ticketworld.com. This critically acclaimed production, directed by award-winning Riki Benedicto and headlined by actor-director Andoy Ranay, marks BOGT’s third international festival appearance following successful runs in Canada (2019) and Germany (2021, 2022), and the Philippines’ second-ever participation at this prestigious theater event.

13th of September, a reimagining of Lanie Robertson’s The Insanity of Mary Girard, tells the haunting story of a woman confronting decades of betrayal and institutionalization. As Mary Girard prepares for her final night in a Pennsylvania asylum, long-buried memories and unresolved traumas resurface in a powerful narrative brought to life by Ranay, Lao Rodriguez, and Drew Espenocilla. The production’s bold direction, intense performances, and socially resonant themes have earned it critical praise at previous international festivals, where it captivated audiences with its portrayal of empowerment, injustice, and psychological struggle.

Founded in 2019, BOGT Philippines is an independent, non-profit theater company committed to showcasing Filipino talent on the world stage. Its delegation of nine artists and creatives—including producers, designers, and performers—will represent the country in Monaco’s prestigious Princess Grace Theater on August 26 and 27, closing the festival alongside acclaimed productions from Lithuania and Morocco. BOGT extends its deepest thanks to its partners and invites the public to support the August 10 send-off performance, which is key to ensuring this Filipino theatrical triumph reaches global audiences.

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The Warrens face their most terrifying case yet in The Conjuring: Last Rites trailer

Warner Bros. Pictures today released the climactic trailer for The Conjuring: Last Rites, the highly anticipated final chapter of the flagship Conjuring franchise. Set for wide theatrical release on September 5, 2025, the trailer plunges viewers into a chilling showdown as Ed and Lorraine Warren return to face the terror that defined their careers.

The trailer sets the tone with unnerving imagery, a disembodied hand, torrents of blood and hair, a brutal hanging, and a dramatic exorcism. It also features the return of the infamous Annabelle doll and reveals the central case: the Smurl family haunting from 1986, a case linked to the demon that terrorized the Warrens in their earliest investigations.

Starring Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga in their final performances as Ed and Lorraine Warren, the film introduces Mia Tomlinson as daughter Judy Warren and Ben Hardy as Judy’s boyfriend Tony Spera, with Steve Coulter reprising Father Gordon. Executive produced by franchise architects James Wan and Peter Safran, and directed by Michael Chaves, Last Rites brings the mainline saga to a powerful conclusion.

Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren

Mia Tomlinson as Judy Warren

With its 1980s setting, emotional depth, and supernatural stakes, The Conjuring: Last Rites promises an intense and fitting farewell to one of horror’s most beloved couples. Watch the final trailer below and prepare for the ultimate confrontation in theaters this September.

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TBA Studios launches character posters of 'Quezon'

Get ready to step back into history with Quezon, the latest cinematic masterpiece from acclaimed director Jerrold Tarog (Heneral Luna, Goyo). The newly released character posters are giving an exciting first look at the powerhouse ensemble cast bringing this chapter of the Bayaniverse to life.

 

Jericho Rosales and Benjamin Alves in the titular role as the matured and young versions of MLQ

Headlining the film is Jericho Rosales in the titular role, alongside a stellar lineup that includes Benjamin Alves, Mon Confiado, Iain Glen (Game of Thrones), Arron Villaflor, Cris Villanueva, Romnick Sarmenta, Karylle, JC Santos, Jake Macapagal, Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, Joross Gamboa, Therese Malvar, Ana Abad Santos, and Ketchup Eusebio. Find all other posters here.

Directed by Tarog, Quezon marks the third installment in the critically acclaimed Bayaniverse series—following the epic retelling of Filipino heroes in Heneral Luna and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral. This time, the spotlight is on President Manuel L. Quezon and his bold, often complicated legacy.

The film is produced by Daphne O. Chiu-Soon, with support from TBA Studios Chairman Emeritus Fernando Ortigas and CEO E. A. Rocha. Jericho Rosales also steps behind the camera as co-executive producer, joined by associate producers Margie Navarro-De Guzman and Atty. Rod Vera.

Tarog co-wrote the screenplay with veteran playwright Rody Vera, and the production is stacked with talent behind the scenes: cinematography by Pong Ignacio, production design by Monica Sebial, sound by Immanuel Verona and Fatima Salim, and visual effects by The Post Office.

Quezon is a recipient of the CreatePHFilms incentive from the Film Development Council of the Philippines—a mark of its cultural significance and cinematic ambition.

Mark your calendars: Quezon hits Philippine cinemas on October 15, with an international premiere to follow.

Stay tuned for more updates—and don’t miss the chance to witness this powerful new chapter in Philippine cinema.

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iJuander celebrates 14 years of travel and discovery in Asia’s World City

The Filipino spirit is always steeped in adventure, and for fourteen years, the famed magazine show iJuander has aimed to satisfy the wanderlust in every Filipino’s heart. Showcasing the many facets of Filipino culture through the years, the show recently celebrated its 14th anniversary with a double-episode special featuring the sights and sounds of Asia’s World City, Hong Kong.

Hong Kong, with its proximity to the Philippines, has always been one of the lasting top-of-mind destinations for Filipino travelers. The city reached a monumental milestone in 2024 with the arrival of over one millionth Filipino tourist. This proves that, in a way, Hong Kong registers as somewhat of an extension of home for many Filipinos. iJuander, as part of its anniversary special, sought to highlight just how Filipino-esque Hong Kong can get.

What really makes the Philippines is its people. Empoy Marquez and Susan Enriquez, the dynamic duo of hosts for this show, were able to sneak a peek into the lives of Filipinos who have chosen to live and call Hong Kong their second home. Among them is Ace Chong, a photographer and architect who fell in love with the dazzling sights and cityscapes of Hong Kong. In true Pinoy kilig fashion, through his photography, he was able to meet his would-be wife, Deborah, who happens to also be a photographer just like him. Since then, they’ve been walking and treating the streets of Hong Kong as their own photo wonderland.

Hong Kong-based Filipino photographers Ace Chong (L) and Deborah Sy (R)

Aside from Ace and Deborah’s picture-perfect story, the iJuander team was also able to get a taste of what Filipino hospitality is like in Hong Kong, and nothing screams Filipino warmth more than food. Angelo Reyes and Mary Jean Silva have resided in Hong Kong for twenty years and are deeply familiar with the city and its Filipino community. That’s why their classic Filipino eatery “Angel’s” is a hit with their fellow overseas workers. Their humble beginnings as waitstaff in Hong Kong’s bar scene inspired them to open their own restaurant and give back to their fellow OFWs.

Susan Enriquez with "Angel's" founder, Mary Jean Silva

Angelo Reyes

Of course, Empoy and Susan’s food adventure doesn’t end there. The city is bursting with flavors, both eastern and western, traditional and fusion. The legendary Lin Heung Lau, still serving dim sum old-school style on trolleys, live seafood at Sai Kung, and street food after a round of shopping at Temple Street are some of the culinary wonders that the iJuander team was able to indulge in during their time in the city. For Susan and Empoy, there was a shared love for rice meals and hearty comfort food in the city, as well as the rich flavor profiles. In Hong Kong, you know a meal is good when it leaves you full and warm with comfort.

Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant

Temple Street night market

Lin Heung Lau

But, if there’s one thing Filipinos love more than food, it’s a sunny day out at the beach or a day trip to their favorite amusement park with the family. Hong Kong has no shortage of picturesque beaches and towering rock formations, as seen in Sai Kung, where Empoy and Susan learned just how the islands of Hong Kong came to be through a volcanic eruption. Susan was particularly amazed by the island-hopping experience and the presence of volcanic rock formations. Even though she had been to Hong Kong before, most of the places visited on this trip were new to her, making it feel like a fresh discovery to an already familiar place.

Paired with a quick hike at Dragon’s Back, Empoy and Susan had the perfect great outdoors experience. But if the outdoors aren’t your cup of tea, Empoy has you covered with his day out at Groundswell, an indoor surf house that lets you ride the waves with ease. And of course, who could forget Ocean Park? With its newest and cutest attraction, the twin pandas, the amusement park is a foolproof family-friendly outing.

Empoy at Dragon's Back

Groundswell

Cruising at the islands of Hong Kong

Hong Kong boasts more than its proximity to the Philippines; it’s a diverse place that welcomes Filipino travelers with open arms. iJuander, in its 14th year and with its continued pursuit of championing Filipino culture anywhere, has shed much light on the wonders of Hong Kong that are close to the hearts of each and every Filipino who visits.

Watch the full iJuander episodes on the GMA Public Affairs YouTube channel and check out the Hong Kong Summer Viva promotions if you’re planning your own trip to Hong Kong!

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The Manila Hotel reopens Heritage Museum

The Manila Hotel Heritage Museum

The Manila Hotel reopens Heritage Museum following extensive enhancements aimed at delivering a more engaging historical experience. Located at the lobby level of the iconic hotel, the revamped museum presents a newly curated collection of artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that highlight the hotel’s role in Philippine history, culture, and hospitality since 1912.

The Heritage Museum showcases the hotel’s architectural and cultural legacy, notable guests, world leaders, and contributions to society over the past century. Previously unseen photographs and antique décor pieces are now on display, giving visitors a closer look at the milestones that shaped The Manila Hotel’s legacy. New additions include digital installations, the hotel’s oldest surviving menu, and a curated display of antique furniture, among others.

“The Heritage Museum is more than a walk through the past, it’s a way of honoring The Manila Hotel and its intertwined relationship with the history of our country. Every piece you’ll see here was chosen to reflect our story as a living landmark,” said Rachy Cuna, The Manila Hotel’s social director and design consultant.

Designed for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors, the Heritage Museum reflects the hotel’s ongoing commitment to preserving its legacy.

The Heritage Museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. For guided tours or additional information, guests may contact Guest Services at +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email guestservices@themanilahotel.com.

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Theater Review: Sandbox Collective’s Side Show is a Stunning Celebration of Uniqueness and Unity

Sandbox Collective’s bold new staging of Side Show is not just a musical—it’s an experience. From the moment you enter the theater, you’re transported into the world of 1930s sideshows, thanks to an immersive setup where actors engage directly with the audience even before the curtain rises. It’s intimate, strange, and mesmerizing—just the way Side Show is meant to be.

First staged on Broadway in 1997, Side Show is a cult-favorite musical with music by Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Bill Russell. It’s based on the true story of conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, who were famed performers in vaudeville and circus circuits. The musical explores not just their pursuit of fame and love, but the price of being different in a world obsessed with normalcy. The 2014 revival brought a reimagined script and deeper character development—and Sandbox’s take builds beautifully on that, making it feel both grand and personal.

At the heart of this production are Molly Langley and Krystal Kane as Violet and Daisy. Their chemistry is magnetic, and their vocal blend is hauntingly beautiful. Whether they’re harmonizing in power ballads or navigating the emotional complexity of being physically bound yet emotionally distinct, the duo commands the stage with grace and grit.

On the romantic front, CJ Navato and Vien King bring charm and vulnerability to the roles of Buddy and Terry. Their performances add layers of tenderness and longing that make the sisters’ desires even more relatable. It’s hard not to swoon over their sincerity and suave delivery.

Vien King, Krystal Kane, Molly Langley and CJ Navato

CJ Navato

The ensemble is nothing short of electrifying. Each cast member embodies the spirit of the show’s “freaks” with depth and dignity, rejecting caricature in favor of humanity. Standouts include Jon Santos as the enigmatic Boss, delivering a chilling portrayal of exploitation cloaked in charisma, and Joshua Cabiladas as Jake, whose commanding presence and rich vocals leave a lasting impact.

More than just a visual and musical treat, Side Show is a poignant reflection on difference, identity, and sisterhood. Sandbox Collective reminds us that being “different” is not something to hide, but something to celebrate. In a world that often seeks conformity, Side Show dares us to embrace our uniqueness—and each other—with open hearts.

This production is a triumph. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the spectacle until August 17 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Theater in Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati City.

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