Shrek the Musical Comes to Life with an All-Star Cast at Newport World Resorts!

Get ready to journey back to the swamp—this time, on stage! DreamWorks’ Shrek the Musical is coming to Manila, and the latest cast announcement has us shouting “Somebody once told me...” with pure excitement. Presented by Full House Theater Company in partnership with Newport World Resorts, this larger-than-life production will showcase beloved fairy-tale misfits through a spectacular mix of music, comedy, and theatrical flair.

Jamie Wilson steps into the oversized boots of Shrek, bringing his signature blend of humor and depth honed through standout performances. He recently dazzled audiences in the role of Pumbaa in The Lion King Jr. at Resorts World and brought heartfelt presence to Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol at Meralco Theater. Jamie’s resonant baritone and comic timing make him the perfect ogre.

Opposite him, Krystal Kane takes on Princess Fiona with grace and power. Her commanding soprano secured her the role of Maria in Stage Right's production of The Sound of Music, and she moved audiences as Éponine in Les Misérables at The Theatre at Solaire, earning praise for her stirring rendition of “On My Own.” Expect Krystal to bring Fiona’s fierce spirit and heartfelt emotion to vibrant life.

Adding endless charm and laughter is Topper Fabregas as Donkey. A favorite among theatergoers, he’s known for his vivacious energy, demonstrated as Enjolras in a concert staging of Les Misérables and alongside his ensemble roles in Crazy Talents 2024 at Newport Performing Arts. His comedic instincts and warm stage presence will ensure Donkey steals every scene.

Completing this dynamic quartet is Alfredo Reyes, portraying the pint-sized villain Lord Farquaad with big personality. Alfredo recently impressed audiences as The Rat King in The Nutcracker at CCP and shimmered in Alice in Wonderland with KidsActs PH, showcasing his flair for playful villainy. His turn as Farquaad promises to be both wickedly funny and delightfully over-the-top.

With a cast this formidable—seasoned vocalists, natural comedians, and rising theater stars—Shrek the Musical is poised to deliver heart, humor, and wonder for audiences of all ages.

Check out the following ticket prices from Ticketworld. Shrek The Musical starts playing on October 31, 2025 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

SVIP - Php 4,500
VIP - Php 4,000
Gold - Php 3,000
Silver - Php 2,000
Bronze - Php 1,500

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MSO’s Triple Treat: Watch 2 Concerts, Get 1 Free Ticket!

Get ready for a whirlwind of world-class music, storytelling, and cultural celebration as the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) unveils a thrilling concert bundle that’s too good to miss! This season, MSO is giving music lovers a chance to catch two unforgettable performances and receive a complimentary ticket to one of the most anticipated events of the year: “Butterfly Lovers – Yellow River Concerto”, MSO’s 4th Season Concert.

Here’s how it works: Choose any two concerts from MSO’s exciting upcoming lineup and you’ll get one free ticket to "Butterfly Lovers – Yellow River Concerto." It’s a rare opportunity to dive deep into diverse musical experiences and enjoy a bonus performance on the house.

Concert #1: DUYOG – The 1st Bohol International Youth Orchestra Festival Celebration Concert
Featuring the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra and Children's Orchestra Society New York, this collaboration of young talent from around the globe hits the stage on July 12, 2025, 7:30PM at GSIS Theater, Pasay City. Witness the future of orchestral music in one inspiring evening!

Concert #2: Peter and the Wolf & Little Red Riding Hood
In this unique performance, MSO teams up with Ballet Philippines and Repertory Philippines to reimagine two classic tales through music, dance, and drama. Happening on August 3, 2025, 7PM at The Theater at Solaire, this family-friendly concert promises to be a magical night for all ages.

Concert #3: Brazilian Guitar and Cello
Experience a rich fusion of sound with celebrated Brazilian artists Fabio Zanon (guitar) and Fabio Presgrave (cello), joined by soprano Stephanie Quintin and conductor Marlon Chen. Set for August 9, 2025, 7:30PM at Bayanihan Hall, British School Manila, BGC, this is a must-see for lovers of Latin music and virtuosic performance.

BONUS for MSO Season 99 Subscribers: For every pair of tickets purchased—one for “Duyog” and one for “Peter and the Wolf”—subscribers get an extra complimentary ticket to “Butterfly Lovers – Yellow River Concerto,” on top of their season perks!

Secure your seats and register now via this link: https://forms.gle/kiBjAgN4NhzxQ8hX7

Whether you're into orchestral classics, theatrical fables, or cross-cultural collaborations, MSO’s Triple Treat is your passport to a season of unforgettable performances. Don’t miss out!

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Historical biopic ‘Quezon’ coming exclusively to theaters on October 15

TBA Studios has announced that its historical biopic film “Quezon” will premiere exclusively in Philippine theaters on October 15, 2025.

“Quezon” marks the much-awaited conclusion of the film studio’s cinematic “Bayaniverse” trilogy, a series of films based on Philippine history that includes 2015’s “Heneral Luna,” the Philippines’ highest-grossing historical movie of all time; and 2018’s critically acclaimed “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.”

Jericho Rosales plays the title role of Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon. Jerrold Tarog returns to the TBA Studios Bayaniverse as director.

Filming for “Quezon,”—which is expected to follow the life of Quezon, who became the President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines—officially wrapped on June 10.

Reprising their roles from “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral” are Benjamin Alves as Young Manuel L. Quezon and Mon Confiado as Emilio Aguinaldo. Iain Glen, known for his portrayal of Jorah Mormont in the hit American fantasy television series “Game of Thrones,” joins the cast as Leonard Wood.

The film also stars Arron Villaflor (who also returns to the TBA Studios “Bayaniverse” as Joven Hernando), Cris Villanueva (who plays the adult Joven Hernando), Romnick Sarmenta (Sergio Osmeña), Karylle (Aurora Quezon), JC Santos (Manuel Roxas), and Jake Macapagal (Manuel Nieto). Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, Joross Gamboa, Therese Malvar, Ana Abad Santos, Ketchup Eusebio, and Nico Locco complete the cast.

“Quezon” is produced by Daphne O. Chiu-Soon with the support of TBA Studios' Chairman Emeritus Fernando Ortigas and TBA Studios’ CEO E. A. Rocha. Jericho Rosales served as co-executive producer, with Margie Navarro-De Guzman and Atty. Rod Vera as associate producers. Jerrold Tarog and Rody Vera co-wrote the screenplay. Behind the camera, Tarog is joined by Pong Ignacio (Director of Photography), Monica Sebial (Production Design), Immanuel Verona and Fatima Salim (Sound), and The Post Office (Visual Effects).

This film is a recipient of the CreatePHFilms incentive from the Film Development Council of the Philippines

After opening in Philippine theaters on October 15, “Quezon” will premiere internationally at a later date.

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Don’t Walk. Run. Glen Powell Stars in Edgar Wright’s The Running Man

Get ready to race to the edge of your seat—Edgar Wright's The Running Man is coming, and the newly released trailer promises a relentless, high-stakes thrill ride that’s impossible to look away from.

Check out the brand-new poster that dropped with it—because this is one movie you’ll want on your radar.

(c) Paramount Pictures

The film, opening in theaters on November 5, stars Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick, Twisters) as Ben Richards, an ordinary man forced into an extraordinary fight for survival. Directed by Edgar Wright (Baby Driver, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Shaun of the Dead), the film reimagines the cult-classic story with Wright’s signature flair, a razor-sharp tone, and a kinetic visual style that has already sparked massive buzz online.

Set in a chillingly plausible near future, The Running Man centers around a brutal reality show where contestants, known as Runners, must survive 30 harrowing days while being relentlessly hunted by professional assassins. Every moment is televised, and every second raises the stakes—not just for the Runners, but for a society hooked on the spectacle of human desperation.

Powell’s character, Ben, isn’t a hero by choice—he’s a desperate father trying to save his sick daughter. Coerced into joining the show by its charming yet cold-blooded producer Dan Killian, played by Josh Brolin, Ben quickly becomes more than just another victim. His resilience, instincts, and refusal to break turn him into an unexpected fan favorite—and a growing threat to a system that thrives on control, fear, and blood.

Also starring Colman Domingo, the film explores not just action and survival, but the twisted nature of fame, media, and a society addicted to violence masquerading as entertainment.

The trailer gives us a pulse-pounding preview of what’s to come: explosive chases, close calls, and a rapidly unraveling dystopia where one man’s rebellion might just become a revolution.

Watch the official trailer here:

Millions Hunt. One Runs. Everyone Watches.
The Running Man opens exclusively in cinemas on November 5.

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The Devil Wears Prada 2 Begins Production: A Fashion Saga Returns to the Big Screen

After nearly 20 years of anticipation, one of cinema’s most iconic fashion stories is getting a long-awaited sequel. The Devil Wears Prada 2 has officially begun production, bringing back the powerhouse ensemble that helped turn the original into a cultural phenomenon. On June 30, 2025, 20th Century Studios confirmed that cameras are rolling, setting the stage for a stylish and dramatic return to the world of high fashion and magazine publishing.

Meryl Streep reprises her role as Miranda Priestly, the cold, commanding editor-in-chief of Runway magazine — a character who became an instant icon and earned Streep an Oscar nomination. Anne Hathaway is also back as Andy Sachs, the once-naïve assistant who found her voice and walked away from the toxic glamour of the fashion world. Emily Blunt returns as Emily Charlton, whose sharp wit and competitive edge made her a standout in the original film. And of course, Stanley Tucci is once again stepping into the shoes of Nigel Kipling, the fashion insider with a sharp eye and an even sharper tongue.

In an exciting new development, Kenneth Branagh joins the cast as Miranda’s husband, promising to add a new layer of personal drama to the sequel. Behind the camera, the original creative minds are returning as well. Director David Frankel and screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna are reuniting to ensure the story maintains the sharp humor, emotional tension, and glamorous aesthetic that made the first film so unforgettable. Producer Wendy Finerman is also back on board.

While much of the plot is still under wraps, early details suggest that the sequel will explore how the once-mighty world of fashion publishing is adapting — or failing to adapt — to a rapidly changing media landscape. Miranda Priestly is said to be facing the decline of traditional print magazines, while Emily Charlton has risen to a position of power as an executive at a luxury conglomerate, holding the advertising purse strings that Runway desperately needs. How Andy re-enters the picture is still a mystery, but given the character’s past evolution, fans can expect a thoughtful and perhaps surprising return.

Production is now underway, with filming expected to take place in major fashion capitals like New York City and possibly Paris or Milan, capturing the global scale of today’s luxury industry. The film is slated for a theatrical release on May 1, 2026.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 isn’t just a nostalgic reunion — it’s poised to be a timely and resonant exploration of ambition, reinvention, and the cost of staying relevant in an unforgiving industry. With its legendary cast, beloved characters, and high-fashion drama, the sequel promises to deliver everything fans loved the first time around — and then some.

So, grab your stilettos and mark your calendars. Miranda Priestly is back — and something tells us she’s not in the mood for cerulean. 

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The Success Story of Express Clean Laundry, Powered by LG Commercial Washing Machines

From one shop to 22 branches nationwide—how reliable machines and smart systems drove business growth and long-term success

Peak seasons demand more than just speed—they require dependable systems, consistent performance, and equipment that delivers every single time. Reliability isn’t just a value–it’s a driving force behind every operation led by Arles Uy Jr., CEO of Express Clean Laundry under AAU Corporation, one of the Philippines’ top direct dealers of LG Commercial Laundry Machines.

With 22 LG Laundry Lounges strategically located across the country, Express Clean showcases operational excellence through branches that serve as live showrooms, service centers, and training hubs. These are located in key cities including San Pedro, Cabuyao, Imus, Sto. Tomas, Poblacion, Lucena, Pasay, San Jose Del Monte, Angeles, Baguio, Vigan, Dagupan, Naga, Legazpi, Puerto Princesa, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Davao, General Santos, and Butuan, Agusan del Sur. Express Clean empowers aspiring entrepreneurs through expert consultancy, proven business models, and access to top-tier LG equipment. It has been recognized as the “Best Reliable Laundry Business Provider” by the Golden Globe Annual Awards and the “Most Outstanding Laundry Machines Business Provider” by the Sterling Asia Awards. More than a laundry brand, Express Clean is a trusted partner in building profitable, future-ready businesses with LG Commercial Washers at the core.

Express Clean - Rising to the Holiday Rush
Arles recalls one holiday season that tested the limits of their operations. “Since day one, LG Commercial Washers and Dryers have been integral to the success of Express Clean.” One holiday season put this to the test, with a sudden surge of customers crowding their shops and stretching their machine capacity to its limits. “We had a lot of people coming in all at once, lining up for the machines. The demand could’ve caused a lot of delays with older washers, but with LG’s commercial washers, we were able to keep everything moving smoothly.”

That efficiency was made possible by LG’s high-capacity models and proven durability. “The high-capacity models allowed us to handle more loads at once without sacrificing quality. Plus, the machines are so durable and reliable that we didn’t run into any breakdowns, which meant we could keep operations smooth and meet all our customers’ needs on time.” As a result, customers were impressed by how quickly their laundry was done. They left satisfied, and his team was able to make the most of the increased traffic during a critical period.

That level of performance has become the standard at Express Clean, with LG Commercial Laundry Machines helping ensure the business’s daily operations run smoothly. “The reliability and energy efficiency of LG’s commercial washers have completely transformed how we manage daily operations. The machines rarely require maintenance, which allows us to focus on serving customers instead of dealing with equipment issues.” With reduced utility costs and minimal downtime thanks to the machines’ durability, the team can concentrate on delivering fast, consistent, and high-quality service every day.

Trusted by Business Owners, Loved by Customers: Why LG Commercial Washers Stand Out
Customers have taken notice of the superior performance of LG washers, particularly their speed and consistency. “Our customers love the LG washers! They’ve noticed how quickly their laundry gets done without compromising the quality of the wash. It’s faster and more effective than other laundromats they’ve tried, and we’ve seen an increase in repeat business because of it.” Customers appreciate the customized settings that deliver a gentle, precise wash for every fabric type. Quiet operation has also become a welcome feature for those who prefer doing laundry at night, creating a more peaceful experience.

Arles speaks with genuine conviction when talking about LG. “I recommend LG Commercial Washers! They’re reliable, efficient, and incredibly easy to use. They’ve made a big impact on our operations and profitability. That’s why I always say: build your business on a strong foundation with quality equipment like LG.” What drives Arles most is knowing that Express Clean Laundry makes a real difference in people’s daily lives. For him, the most rewarding part of the business is helping make everyday routines easier for customers. Seeing loyal faces return and hearing positive feedback reassures him that their service stands out, and that kind of connection is what keeps the team going.

Shaping Laundry Business Success with LG Commercial Laundry System
Mr. Chang Hee Doh, LG Philippines Product Director for Commercial Washers, expresses his confidence in the brand’s role in supporting local entrepreneurs. “LG Commercial Washers are powered by trusted Korean technology and designed with Smart Solutions that make daily operations easier for entrepreneurs." Known for their energy efficiency, reliability, and durability, these machines are built to support long-term business growth. "We’re committed to transforming laundry days into smoother, smarter routines, freeing up more time for Filipinos to focus on what truly matters. Partnering with Express Clean, as with our other valued laundry partners we proudly support, has given us the opportunity to demonstrate the strength of LG’s Commercial Laundry System in a fast-paced, high-demand environment, showing how it can drive operational efficiency and business growth while upholding service excellence.”

Running a business goes beyond chasing profit, it’s about building a system that works for both the team behind the counter and the customers they serve. Life’s good when operations run smoothly, your staff feel supported, and customers keep coming back because they’re happy with your service. When all of that comes together, the long days feel worth it. There’s real peace of mind in knowing your business is running well and growing steadily.

Start your own success story with LG Commercial Laundry System today and take your business further with advanced technology, efficiency, and seamless operations. Visit LG Commercial Laundry PH on www.facebook.com/LGCommercialLaundryPH or go to www.lg.com/ph/business/commercial-laundry/ to learn more.

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Jinju Silk Lanterns at the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines

If you're looking for a serene yet inspiring cultural escape this season, I highly recommend dropping by the Jinju Silk Lanterns exhibit at the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines. Running from May 24 until July 31, 2025, the exhibit transforms the KCC space in Taguig into a glowing wonderland of light, tradition, and storytelling. I visited last weekend, and stepping into the hall felt like walking into a living painting—lanterns in soft silk hues swaying gently above me, each one telling a quiet story.

These aren’t just pretty lights. The Jinju silk lanterns come from a deep-rooted tradition tied to the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival in South Korea. It began centuries ago, during the Imjin War, when lanterns were floated on the river as a tribute to fallen soldiers. Over time, the practice evolved into a vibrant festival symbolizing hope, remembrance, and the power of light to connect people. Seeing them up close, you get a real sense of that reverence. Each lantern, handcrafted using traditional hanji paper and silk, carries an aura of both fragility and strength.

 

Beyond the breathtaking visuals, what I loved most about the exhibit is how interactive and immersive it feels. There are guided tours available on select days, where knowledgeable docents share the stories and cultural context behind each lantern piece. I took one of these tours and learned so much—about mythical creatures, old Korean legends, and even the modern artists who reinterpret these symbols for today. It really deepened my appreciation for what might otherwise seem like just a decorative display.

 

 

And here’s a fun bonus: every Friday this July (on the 4th, 11th, and 18th), KCC is hosting Hanbok Fridays. Yes, you can wear traditional Korean attire and take stunning photos surrounded by the glowing lanterns. Trust me, it’s a photographer’s dream—and such a fun way to experience Korean culture firsthand. Whether you're going solo, on a date, or with family and friends, this is the kind of memory you'll want to look back on.

So if you haven’t yet, make time to visit before the exhibit ends on July 31. It’s free, thoughtfully curated, and offers a quiet escape from the city’s usual buzz. Don’t forget to book your guided tour slot online (here’s the link: bit.ly/LightsOfKoreaGuidedTour). I promise—it’s worth the visit.

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