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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The Manila Hotel Partners with TESDA to Strengthen Hospitality Training

The Manila Hotel is awarded with Certificates of TVET Program Registration

The Manila Hotel has entered into a landmark partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The partnership designates the historic hotel as an official training ground for aspiring hoteliers and hospitality professionals, marking a significant step in advancing enterprise-based education in the country.

The agreement was formalized during Kapihan sa Manila Hotel on August 13, 2025, with TESDA Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Benitez as guest of honor. During the forum, TESDA awarded The Manila Hotel Certificates of TVET Program Registration—its first in partnership with the hotel—recognizing its comprehensive training programs under the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) scheme.

Atty. Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel with TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez 

“The Manila Hotel is proud to open its doors to the next generation of Filipino hoteliers,” said Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel. “This partnership reflects our commitment to developing skilled professionals who will uphold and elevate Philippine hospitality on the global stage. Providing real-world training is an investment in the future of the hospitality industry.”

Secretary Benitez commended the initiative as a vital bridge between academic learning and industry needs. “The EBET program aligns training with employer requirements, and The Manila Hotel, renowned for its heritage and service excellence, is the ideal setting for this partnership,” he said.

Under the program, trainees will gain hands-on experience across hotel operations, from guest services to culinary arts. The EBET curriculum is tailored to meet industry standards, equipping graduates with the skills and competitive edge needed to succeed in the hospitality sector.

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TBA Studios unveils trailer for historical biopic ‘Quezon’

TBA Studios has officially released the full trailer for Quezon, the much-anticipated historical biopic starring Jericho Rosales as Manuel L. Quezon. The film opens exclusively in Philippine theaters on October 15, marking the conclusion of the acclaimed “Bayaniverse” trilogy that began with Heneral Luna in 2015 and continued with Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral in 2018. Both earlier entries became milestones in Philippine cinema, and Quezon now takes its place as the trilogy’s powerful finale.

Jericho Rosales as Manuel Quezon

Directed by Jerrold Tarog, Quezon explores the complex and often cutthroat political landscape during the American occupation, focusing on Manuel L. Quezon’s pursuit of independence for the Philippines. The trailer teases high-stakes confrontations, political maneuvering, and Quezon’s relentless quest for power. From his clashes with rivals like Leonard Wood, Sergio Osmeña, and Joven Hernando to his face-off with Emilio Aguinaldo in the 1935 presidential elections, the film promises to showcase how Quezon’s mix of charm, ambition, and political savvy helped reshape the nation’s history. Watch the trailer here:

The star-studded cast adds to the film’s excitement. Alongside Rosales, Benjamin Alves portrays the young Quezon, while Mon Confiado returns as Emilio Aguinaldo. International actor Iain Glen, known for his role in Game of Thrones, plays Leonard Wood. Arron Villaflor reprises his role as Joven Hernando, with Cris Villanueva portraying the older version of the character. The ensemble also features Romnick Sarmenta as Sergio Osmeña, Karylle as Aurora Quezon, JC Santos as Manuel Roxas, and Jake Macapagal as Manuel Nieto, with a strong supporting lineup that includes Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, and more.

Despite being the conclusion to the “Bayaniverse,” TBA Studios emphasizes that Quezon is crafted as a stand-alone cinematic experience. “We are excited and proud to present ‘Quezon’ to the big screen both in the Philippines and internationally soon,” said Daphne O. Chiu-Soon, TBA Studios President and COO. “This project is a testament to our unwavering commitment to bringing the very best of Philippine cinema to the movie theaters.” She also noted that the film is accessible to all audiences, regardless of whether they’ve seen the previous installments.

Jericho Rosales (Manuel L. Quezon) and Romnick Sarmenta (Sergio Osmeña) 

To further encourage audiences to experience this historical epic, TBA Studios will be offering special ticket prices for students and teachers, with details to be announced soon. Following its October 15 premiere in the Philippines, Quezon is set for an international release at a later date, giving global audiences a chance to witness a pivotal chapter in Philippine history brought vividly to life on the big screen.

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Rainy Days Just Got Easier with LG-Powered Laundromats

Life’s Good with LG Giant and Titan Max making every laundromat trip a fast, fresh, and easy rainy day solution

Piles of clothes and drying laundry indoors can be quite a challenge especially during the rainy season. For families, it can quickly become an overwhelming chore, one that’s even harder to manage when the heat of the sun is barely felt. With limited drying space at home and a mountain of clothes to wash, the task becomes exhausting. That’s why more and more households are turning to laundromats as a practical, time-saving solution during the wet season.

Laundromats offer the convenience of professional-grade equipment that gets the job done faster and better. Unlike doing laundry at home, washing clothes can stretch all day during the rainy season. Even better if the laundromat is equipped with LG Commercial Washing Machines, which turn dreaded laundry days into an efficient and stress-free experience, especially for families busy with school, work, and everything in between.

LG’s commercial washing machines are built for exactly this kind of demand. The LG Giant Max handles up to 10 kilograms of laundry, while the LG Titan Max takes on 15 kilograms, perfect for families who go through loads of clothes each week. Equipped with LG’s Inverter Direct Drive motor, which is directly connected to the drum, these machines are exceptionally durable and reliable, especially during the busy laundry season. They can withstand the weight of multiple heavy loads and the constant use from a line of customers walking in with large laundry baskets all day. With the large-capacity LG washers and dryers, families no longer need to split their laundry into several cycles or wait hours for clothes to dry indoors. These powerful machines can handle large volumes of laundry in one go, making it possible to wash everything from everyday wear to heavy towels, bedsheets, and even bulky jackets in a single trip.

These 10KG Standard Capacity Frontload Washer and 15KG Large Capacity Frontload Washer offer size and smart cleaning power. The Twin Spray technology rinses clothes continuously while spinning, which means faster wash times and cleaner clothes. And with the Tub Cleaning System built in, families can rest assured that every load is handled in a hygienic drum, free from buildup and residue.

Drying laundry at the laundromat also becomes much more convenient during rainy months. The LG 10KG Standard Capacity Dryer and 15KG Large Capacity Dryer use high-temperature cycles that not only ensure clothes are thoroughly dried but also help eliminate bacteria and allergens, something that’s especially important for families with children. Compared to home drying racks or basic dryers that leave clothes damp or exposed to indoor humidity, LG’s dryers provide a clean, professional finish that’s both efficient and sanitary. With LG-equipped laundromats, families can enjoy faster laundry days and feel totally stress-free knowing their clothes are not just super clean but also safely dried in a hygienic setting.

To make the laundromat experience even more convenient, the LG Laundry Crew App lets you track your laundry’s progress in real time, right from your phone. From checking machine availability to tracking if your load is done, the app gives you full control and peace of mind while you relax or run other errands.

A quick trip to the laundromat means less clutter at home, faster laundry turnaround, and peace of mind knowing that every item is thoroughly cleaned and dried. For families looking to simplify their rainy season routine, LG Commercial Washing Machines offer the perfect blend of power, hygiene, and convenience. Because even on the rainiest days, Life’s Good when laundry doesn’t feel like a chore. Learn more at www.lg.com/ph/ and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. Download the LG Laundry Crew app on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

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SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL Announces Final One-Day-Only Extension!

The Sandbox Collective adds two more shows, must close on August 24

Due to insistent public demand, The Sandbox Collective has just announced Side Show: The Musical’s FINAL EXTENSION on August 24, 2025 with two shows – 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM.

The afternoon show will include Krystal Kane, Molly Langley, CJ Navato, Tim Pavino, and Joshua Cabiladas, while the evening show will include Tanya Manalang, Marynor Madamesila, Reb Atadero, Vien King, and Marvin Ong. 

The company will include Jon Santos, Arion Sanchez, Fay Castro, Daniel Wesley, Ian Hermogenes, Mikee Baskiñas, Pamela Imperial, Pappel, Raflesia Bravo, Red Nuestro, Reine Paisley, and Rhap Salazar.

Tickets to the final extension is now available online through ticket2me.net/sandboxsideshow and through the contact details below:

August 24, 3 PM
0925 306 5083

August 24, 7:30 PM
0917 854 4934
0907 564 0028
0917 619 2678

Side Show: The Musical is Toff de Venecia’s final directorial stint before his hiatus.

Side Show: The Musical is a fictional depiction of the life and times of real-life conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton who found fame and notoriety in the vaudeville circuit in 1920 and 1930s. The story discusses themes of love, sisterhood, and fame amid the social stigma of being different.

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is running at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets are available at ticket2me.net/sandboxsideshow. Follow @thesandboxco on Instagram for more information.

SIDE SHOW: THE MUSICAL is licensed through Concord Theatricals.

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

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