Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical bring Gloria Estefan's music to Manila with "On Your Feet!"

Turn up the heat this summer with the Southeast Asian premiere of the musical

Get ready to fall in love and dance as Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical bring the musical On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan to Manila this July!

Directed by Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome, and book by Alexander Dinelaris, On Your Feet tells the awe-inspring story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan — two artists whose unwavering belief in each other redefined the American soundscape.

A journey fueled by passion and tested by tragedy, the musical explores the determination and creativity that turned a local band into an international sensation.

This uplifting saga comes to life with a pulse-pounding playlist of the greatest pop hits of a generation including “Anything For You,” “1-2-3,” “Conga,” and “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You.” It’s a celebration of heritage, family, and the music that moved the world.

On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan is a 9 Works Theatrical production, presented by Rockwell. The show will run in July 2026. Tickets and other details will be announced soon.

For more information and updates on On Your Feet!, check out the social media pages of Proscenium Theater (@ProsceniumTheater) and 9 Works Theatrical (@9WorksTheatrical).

On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan is presented through special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide, New York.

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PETA Unveils the Lead Cast of Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4

The wait is over! Meet the powerhouse cast headlining one of this year’s most anticipated productions.

The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) officially announces the headlining cast of Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter! running from June 19 to August 16, 2026, at the PETA Theater Center.

From two iconic films to a hit series, Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank has become beloved for its hyperreal, meta commentary on arts, culture, and society. The first film skewered the indie movie scene, the second tackled mainstream cinema, and the third confronted historical revisionism. This fourth installment turns its sharp gaze toward theater, but it doesn’t just peek behind the curtain; it tears it down entirely, exposing the messy, hilarious, and painfully relatable process of making theater in the Philippines today.

At the center of the mayhem is Eugene Domingo, returning as a gloriously amplified version of herself—navigating ego, ambition, and the beautiful absurdity of mounting a live show. Long celebrated for her fearless comedic brilliance, Domingo once again anchors the franchise with razor-sharp wit and impeccable timing.

Joining her is a powerhouse lineup of theater-makers, all portraying exaggerated reflections of their real-life roles in the industry. Meann Espinosa, Stella Cañete-Mendoza, Andoy Ranay, and JC Santos step in as unapologetic artistas caught in the whirlwind of creative clashes and theatrical excess.

 

 
Meann Espinosa, Stella Cañete-Mendoza, Andoy Ranay, and JC Santos

Behind the scenes—but very much in front of the live audience—is Melvin Lee as the ever-resourceful (and ever-stressed) producer attempting to keep the production afloat. Marlon Rivera, who directed the franchise’s first three installments, steps into the chaos as the director within the play, while Joshua Lim So takes on the role of the resident playwright caught between revisions, rewrites, and relentless creative debates—desperately trying to keep his script, and his sanity, intact.

 

Melvin Lee, Marlon Rivera and Joshua Lim So

The show is written by Chris Martinez, the creative force behind the first three Septic Tank installments. It will be directed by Maribel Legarda, who helmed PETA’s hit productions Rak of Aegis and One More Chance The Musical, with assistance from up-and-coming director Johnnie Moran.

Set and costume design is by Gino Gonzales, with music and sound design by Teresa Barrozo.

Metrobank credit cardholders will enjoy exclusive first access to tickets from February 27 at 10:00 AM to March 3 at 11:59 PM via TicketWorld. A Waitlist Sale follows from March 4 at 10:00 AM to March 5 at 11:59 PM for patrons who signed up last December 2025, with the General Public Sale beginning on March 6 at 10:00 AM.

Tickets will be available via TicketWorld or bit.ly/SepticTank4Tickets.

Ticket prices are P3,500 (VIP), P2,800 (Orchestra and Balcony Center), P2,500 (Orchestra Side), and P1,800 (Balcony Side). Audiences are encouraged to create their TicketWorld accounts in advance, as tickets are expected to sell out fast.

For more updates, follow @petatheater on social media.

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A Century in Symphony: MSO Opens Its Centennial Season with Sleeping Beauty

On March 13, 2026 at 8PM, and March 14 & 15, 2026 at 5PM, the MSO joins forces with Ballet Manila for a shared season opener at the Aliw Theater. Together, they present Sleeping Beauty, a production that celebrates two milestones: the MSO’s Centennial Season and Ballet Manila’s 40th Performance Season.

A Shared Milestone for Two Cultural Pillars
This collaboration is more than a performance—it is a historic convergence of two institutions that have shaped the Philippine performing arts landscape.

Both companies are among the few in the country with a sustained legacy of presenting full-length classical ballets with live orchestral accompaniment. In mounting Sleeping Beauty, they reaffirm a shared belief: that music and movement are universal languages, capable of expressing love, longing, triumph, and transcendence—even without words.

Under the baton of Russian conductor Alexander Vikulov, the MSO brings Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score to life in real time, elevating the ballet experience into something immersive and unforgettable.

Reimagining a Classic: Ballet Manila’s Sleeping Beauty
At the heart of the program is Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty, Op. 66—presented in Ballet Manila’s distinctive version choreographed by the Philippines’ prima ballerina Lisa Macuja Elizalde.

This staging forms the third installment of Ballet Manila’s “Princess Trilogy,” following Cinderella and Snow White. But here, Princess Aurora’s story takes on deeper emotional nuance. The ballet opens with the “Dance of Aurora,” portraying her youthful innocence while subtly suggesting that her heart had already awakened to love long before her fateful slumber.

Tchaikovsky’s score moves with symphonic grandeur and lyrical elegance—from ceremonial marches and courtly dances to fairy variations and sweeping waltzes. Each character is painted in distinct musical color, shaped by intricate melodies and rich orchestration.

One of the evening’s most anticipated highlights is the Pas de Deux (No. 28), featuring a luminous solo violin passage performed by MSO Concertmaster Alessio Benvenuti. In this moment, the music does more than accompany the dancers—it carries the emotional pulse of the ballet, guiding audiences through tenderness, tension, romance, and celebration.

The Artists Behind the Magic

Ballet Manila
Known as the country’s most prolific ballet company, Ballet Manila trains its dancers in the Russian Vaganova method. Under Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s artistic direction, it has steadfastly pursued its mission: bringing ballet to the people—and bringing more people to the ballet.

Ballet Manila

Maestro Alexander Vikulov
A conductor of international distinction, Vikulov’s career spans opera, symphonic, and ballet repertoire. Having debuted at the Mariinsky Theatre in 2002, he has since collaborated with major institutions across Europe and Asia. His longstanding musical partnership with Ballet Manila ensures a seamless dialogue between orchestra and stage.

Maestro Alexander Vikulov

Manila Symphony Orchestra
Now at 100 years, the MSO remains one of the Philippines’ most active and enduring artistic institutions. Guided by Music Director Marlon Chen and Executive Director Jeffrey Solares, the orchestra continues to uphold international standards while nurturing the next generation of Filipino musicians through education and training programs.

Manila Symphony Orchestra

More Than a Concert—A Centennial Celebration
Sleeping Beauty is only the beginning of the MSO’s Centennial Season, themed “In Pursuit of Excellence.” The season lineup includes:

• Concert II – From Mozart to Mahler

• Concert III – 80 Years of Filipino-American Friendship

• Concert IV – Opera and Kundiman: The Legacy of Maestra Conching Rosal

• Concert V – Cellist Camille Thomas with the MSO

• Concert VI – World Premiere: Filipino Master Composers

(Programs, artists, dates, and venues are subject to change.)

For devoted concertgoers, the MSO All-Access Season Pass offers up to 50% savings, making it the perfect way to experience this landmark year in full.

The Manila Symphony Orchestra’s Centennial Season opens with Sleeping Beauty at the Aliw Theater, located within the CCP Complex in Pasay City. Performances are scheduled on March 13, 2026 at 8PM, and March 14 and 15, 2026 at 5PM. Tickets may be purchased via bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMSleepingBeauty. For updates, audiences may follow the Manila Symphony Orchestra on Facebook, Instagram (@manila.symphony), TikTok (@manilasymphonyorchestra), YouTube, and visit www.manilasymphony.com for more information.

As the curtain rises this March, Sleeping Beauty becomes more than a fairy tale. It becomes a symbol of legacy, resilience, and artistic excellence—proof that after a century, the music of the Manila Symphony Orchestra continues to awaken hearts.

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CreaZion Studios brings A24’s sci-fi horror film ‘BACKROOMS’ to Philippine cinemas

The global phenomenon that captivated a generation, BACKROOMS is coming to the Philippines on June 3, 2026. CreaZion Studios has revealed its release date, an eerie first official poster, and a pulse-pounding teaser.

Produced by genre powerhouse A24 with Chernin Entertainment, Atomic Monster, and 21 Laps, the highly-anticipated science fiction-horror film is the directorial debut of prodigy Kane Parsons, the 20-year-old YouTuber who turned the viral legend into a cinematic nightmare. See the teaser trailer below.

Parsons’ web series about secret backrooms garnered nearly 100 million views. The Creepypasta-inspired horror has also been adapted into numerous video games, including on the platforms Steam and Roblox.

Academy Award nominees Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness) and Renate Reinsve (Sentimental Value, The Worst Person In The World) star in the movie, alongside Mark Duplass (The Morning Show), Finn Bennett (A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms), Lukita Maxwell (Shrinking), Avan Jogia (Zombieland: Double Tap), Chelah Horsdal (Hell on Wheels), and Toby Hargrave (Superman & Lois).

In the teaser, a strange doorway appears in the basement of a furniture showroom, plunging the viewer into a world where time slips and space shifts. The first poster for the film, meanwhile, features a familiar yellowish wallpaper.

#KwentoMoTo: Bringing Human Stories & Experiences

BACKROOMS is the latest highly-anticipated international film that CreaZion Studios is bringing to the Philippines, as part of its #KwentoMoTo mission to make “Human Stories and Human Experiences” accessible to Filipino and Southeast Asian audiences.

“As a major player in film distribution in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region, CreaZion Studios finds purpose and meaning in giving SEA audiences the opportunity to experience well-crafted films, in the best possible way — in cinemas,” said RJ San Agustin, President, CEO & Co-Founder of CreaZion Studios.

“Nothing compares to the experience of watching a film on the big screen, particularly works distinguished by excellence in writing, performance, cinematography, and overall execution. BACKROOMS marks the beginning of CreaZion Studios’ slate of international titles for exclusive distribution in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia, and we look forward to unveiling more of our forthcoming releases under our banner, #KwentoMoTo.”

Last year, CreaZion Studios successfully brought to the domestic and SEA markets the critically-acclaimed filmmaker Park Chan Wook’s No Other Choice and A24 fantasy adventure film The Legend of Ochi; and in 2024, the award-winning body horror film The Substance.

For more updates, follow CreaZion Studios on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube and visit creazionstudios.com. Join the conversation online with hashtag #BackroomsPH.

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LOVE, MARINA: An Iconic Celebration of Filipino Fashion in Print and on the Runway

Far Eastern University (FEU), in partnership with Tesoros, presents a special book talk and fashion presentation for LOVE, MARINA on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 4:30 PM at Tesoros Makati.

Written by Vicky Veloso-Barrera and edited by Thelma San Juan, LOVE, MARINA is a lovingly curated coffee table book that pays homage to pioneering designer Marina Reyes Antonio.

Marina Reyes Antonio

The book honors Marina’s impeccable sense of style, meticulous attention to detail, and ingenious innovations that shaped generations of women’s fashion. Both a visual inspiration and a practical guidebook, it captures treasured memories from family, friends, and clients, weaving together personal recollections with archival images that celebrate a remarkable design legacy.

The event highlights a book talk offering deeper insights into Marina’s life, work, and enduring influence on Filipino fashion.

Complementing the conversation is a fashion presentation featuring creations from four generations of designers whose work reflects the evolution of Filipiniana and couture craftsmanship.

Marina Reyes Antonio, who began her career in the 1930s, belonged to a pioneering generation of women designers. Her love of Filipiniana was expressed through masterful construction, delicate hand-rolled floral embellishments, and fine hand painting—hallmarks of her timeless elegance.

Malu Veloso brings romance and femininity to life through lace, embroidery, and intricate beadwork. Her collections feature both pastel and vibrant hues, expressed in classic silhouettes and figure-flattering styles that embody grace and refinement.

Letlet Veloso introduces bold imagination to formal wear. Known for her adventurous use of embellishment, eye-catching colors, and edgier interpretations of Filipiniana, she creates silhouettes that reflect contemporary sophistication while honoring heritage.

Representing the fourth generation, Hannah Barrera explores the sculptural possibilities of haute couture. Drawing inspiration from the innovative classicism of great European designers, she crafts couture pieces distinguished by structure, artistry, and a unique modern signature.

This invitation-only event celebrates intergenerational artistry, heritage, and the enduring power of Filipino design.

LOVE, MARINA is available for purchase through TAMS Bookstore at TamsBookstore@feu.edu.ph and at Tesoros 1016, A. Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City. 

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Likhang Mateo: A Homegrown Visual Exhibit Brings San Mateo’s Art Scene to Life at SM City San Mateo

Shoppers at SM City San Mateo marvel at wood sculpture "Mariang Kalikasan" by artist Marciano Pagkatipunan at Likhang Mateo exhibit

In celebration of National Arts Month, SM City San Mateo opens its doors to Likhang Mateo: A Homegrown Visual Exhibit, an all-out visual arts showcase organized by the local tourism office of the Municipality of San Mateo. The exhibit is aligned with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ (National Commission for Culture and the Arts) 2026 theme, “Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting,” celebrating artistic truth, courage, and creative identity rooted in the community.

An artistic rendition of "Tumba-Tumba" by artist Aguilardo Pagkatipunan

"Amore De Madre" by artist Marie Claire

3D printed sculptures made of resin and FDM-acrylic by Jenevic Carino

Every art piece at Likhang Mateo exhibit is a conversation starter

Featuring works by veteran and emerging artists who are proudly from San Mateo, the exhibit highlights narratives inspired by local culture, lived experiences, and the town’s evolving creative landscape. As mallgoers gala around the most loved mall, they are invited to engage with meaningful artworks seamlessly woven into their everyday mall experience. By hosting initiatives like Likhang Mateo, SM City San Mateo continues to strengthen its role as a hub for community gatherings—providing a welcoming space where culture, creativity, and daily life intersect, and making local artistry accessible to families, students, and casual mallgoers alike—all thoughtfully staged all for you.

Mayor Bartolome Rivera (center) graces the Likhang Mateo exhibit opening featuring the works of the veteran and emerging artists who all hail from San Mateo, Rizal

The exhibit opening was graced by San Mateo Mayor Bartolome Rivera, alongside Municipal Administrator Jose Enrique P. Desiderio and other town officials. They were welcomed by SM City San Mateo Assistant Mall Manager Sigfred Tatom and Khristine Lenon, underscoring the shared commitment of the local government and SM Supermalls to bring arts and culture closer to the community.

Everyone is invited to gala, explore, and support local talent by visiting Likhang Mateo: A Homegrown Visual Exhibit at the 2nd Level Activity Area of SM City San Mateo until February 26. Experience an all-out celebration of homegrown creativity—right at your most-loved mall.

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GCash launches in-app beginner's guide to introduce crypto to everyday Filipinos

Through creative storytelling and accessibility, GCash makes cryptocurrency easier to understand for beginner investors

Interest in cryptocurrency continues to grow among Filipinos, with 96% showing awareness and over half expressing intent to invest within the year, according to a 2025 Consensys survey. Despite this high curiosity, many remain cautious and unsure where to begin.

To help everyday Filipinos take their first confident step into the world of crypto, finance super app GCash launches “A Beginner’s Guide to Cryptocurrency”, a free and exclusive in-app introduction to cryptocurrency, written and illustrated by Luis Buenaventura, Head of GCrypto. Buenaventura, a Filipino crypto author, artist, and entrepreneur, is widely recognized as a pioneer in the local and global crypto scene.

The Filipino-focused, narrative-style guide breaks down complex concepts like Bitcoin, wallets, and volatility through familiar and practical examples like inflation and daily budgeting, making the topic more approachable for crypto newbies.

“Storytelling makes learning personal and relatable. By grounding financial concepts into everyday examples, we aim to make complex topics like crypto approachable for anyone,” said Buenaventura.

Crypto: From Making Sense to Making Moves

Divided into eight chapters, the guide takes users through the fundamentals of crypto in a practical, easy- to-follow format that reflects the real financial experiences of Filipinos. It starts with why cryptocurrency was developed–tracing its roots to real-world economic challenges, particularly inflation and its impact on people’s savings and purchasing power. From there, it walks readers through Bitcoin's rise and volatility.

“Understanding why crypto matters is the first step to learning how to use it wisely,” Buenaventura noted.

“By helping them understand the balance of ‘high risk, high reward,’ we aim to set realistic expectations before they dive into actual investing.”

Once readers have a grasp of cryptocurrency, the book guides them towards taking their first careful step into investing. It emphasizes the importance of building traditional savings, maintaining diversified investments, and treating crypto as a complement—not a replacement—to other financial foundations.

The succeeding chapters explore the tools and mindsets needed to invest responsibly. It explains wallet apps, satoshis, and trading basics, and introduces other cryptocurrencies beyond Bitcoin, such as Ethereum, Solana, stablecoins, and high-volatility memecoins.

It also dives into the mindset behind investing, tackling topics like moments of doubt, the importance of discipline, and the value of long-term thinking. Ultimately, it brings the conversation back to purpose that crypto should serve real-life goals, helping Filipinos fund dreams, support their families, and celebrate financial progress responsibly.

“Our goal is to educate Filipinos on the responsible use of cryptocurrency, enabling them to take confident, informed steps into the future of finance,” Buenaventura added.

Crypto na Gets Mo

Accessible with just a few taps, “A Beginner’s Guide to Cryptocurrency” is now available through GCrypto, a secure marketplace within the GCash app where users can buy, sell, and learn about crypto safely.

“By publishing the book directly on the GCrypto platform, users can learn and explore at their own pace within a secure environment. This helps Filipinos build confidence and make informed decisions as they navigate the world of crypto,” said Buenaventura.

With streamlined registration, low minimum investment options, and a curated selection of reputable coins reviewed by security experts, GCrypto aims to make cryptocurrency more accessible and less intimidating for Filipino users.

Users can register and begin trading with just their fully verified GCash account, with no separate onboarding required. With investment entry points starting at just ₱200, GCrypto lowers the barrier for participation in the digital economy.

The platform also offers a carefully curated portfolio of trusted cryptocurrencies, helping users make informed choices among reputable coins vetted for security and reliability. It also supports seamless conversion between pesos and crypto, as well as blockchain transactions for sending and receiving funds, all within the GCash app.

Users can access the book by opening the GCash app, tapping ‘Grow,’ and selecting GCrypto.

Ready to take your first step into crypto? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

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