Philippine Concerts

Category: Musicals

  • The bonggang cast of Bongga Ka, ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical

    The bonggang cast of Bongga Ka, ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical

    It takes a bongga cast to stage a bongga musical. Newport World Resorts, in association with VIVA Communications and The Philippine STAR, has unveiled the cast of Bongga Ka, ‘Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical, assembling some of today’s most exciting theater performers and rising stars.

    While the actress who will portray the title character Annie Batungbakal remains under wraps, audiences can now meet the colorful personalities who inhabit the worlds of House of Pasion and Coco Banana in the musical. Between House of Pasion, where Annie works as a dispatsadora or sales clerk while dreaming of becoming a designer, and Coco Banana, the
    famed Malate disco where creatives and socialites gather, unfolds a story of ambition, friendship, love, and self-discovery set to the soundtrack of the Manila Sound era.

    Among the first names announced are the show’s leading men. Sam Concepcion, Jeff.Moses, and Anthony Rosaldo, will alternate as Romer Pasion, the worldly flight attendant and heir to House of Pasion. Joining them is KD Estrada as Burn, the folk rock musician determined to make a name for himself through original music.

    The House of Pasion itself is anchored by Aurora Pasion, alternately played by Jackie Lou Blanco and Ring Antonio. In her 50s, Aurora is an old-school yet influential fashion designer whose signature clothing line defines the house she built.

    Annie’s personal world includes Suzy Batungbakal, played by Air Paz-Pablico, her modista mother and former Aurora employee who is considering working abroad as an Overseas Contract Worker (OCW). Yani Lopez and Andrea Babierra alternate as Iste Batungbakal, Annie’s younger sister who harbors a crush on Burn. By her side is Toots, played by Gerhard Krysstopher, her loyal gay friend and fellow House of Pasion staff member. Guiding Annie along the way is Amor, portrayed by Akie Cedilla, a street-smart balut vendor whose practical advice often makes her the unintentional voice of wisdom and an occasional cupid.

    Adding color to Annie’s journey are the eccentric personalities who populate Coco Banana. John Lapus and Dindo Divinagracia alternate as Tarurit, the larger-than-life proprietor of Coco Banana, and Tito Tambay, a humorously-portrayed neighbor.

    Completing the male ensemble are Rapah Manalo (Burn Understudy), Vince Denzel Sarra,
    MC Dela Cruz, Franco Ramos, Richardson Yadao, Vyen Villanueva, Gerald Magallanes, Mark Panganoron, Jay Cortez, Moi Gealogo, Yahweh Sangalang, Dan Wesley and male swing Tep Logmao. Joining them are female ensemble members Iya Villanueva (Annie Understudy), Misha Fabian, Chez Cuenca, Abi Sulit, Paui Luzuriaga, Sam Marasigan, Coleen Paz, Mica Fajardo, Mia Bella, Abegail Turiano, Yna Arbiol, and female swing Jannah Baniasia.

    Newport World Resorts, in association with VIVA Communications and The Philippine STAR,
    reunites for Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical featuring Hotdog’s timeless hits. The show, staged with PETA Plus, is slated to open in September 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

    Get first dibs on tickets by signing up for the waitlist now via
    https://newportworldresorts.com/bkd-waitlist.

    Ticket selling for Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie
    Batungbakal Musical begins in July.

    Learn more about the artists and the production through Newport World Resorts
    (@newportworldresorts), VIVA Communications Inc. (@vivaartistsagency), and The ⅞Philippine STAR (@philippinestar) on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

    Sign up for the
    waitlist now via https://newportworldresorts.com/bkd-waitlist to be the first in line for tickets.

  • AFTER OZ with Wicked on Broadway’s Lissa De Guzman and Allie Trimm: A Samsung Performing Arts Theater Anniversary Celebration

    AFTER OZ with Wicked on Broadway’s Lissa De Guzman and Allie Trimm: A Samsung Performing Arts Theater Anniversary Celebration

    On July 10, Broadway stars Lissa De Guzman (Wicked, Aladdin, King Kong) and Allie Trim (Wicked, Bye Bye Birdie, 13) takes the stage of the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in a one-night-only concert that marks both a milestone and a celebration of artistry.

    Titled “After Oz with Wicked on Broadway’s Lissa De Guzman and Allie Trimm.” Going beyond the emerald curtain, AFTER OZ is a one-night-only concert experience headlined by Wicked on Broadway’s Lissa de Guzman (Elphababa) and Allie Trimm (Glinda). This milestone event reflects Samsung Performing Arts Theater’s commitment to building audiences, activating creative spaces, and establishing Circuit Makati as a destination for culture, performance, and artistic exchange that bring communities together.

    Together with Farley Asunción & the After Oz Orchestra, and also featuring the UST Singers and Mari Dance, AFTER OZ celebrates what happens after the role, after the spotlight, and after the curtain falls. The program brings together powerful Broadway numbers, moving original compositions, and reimagined pop anthems-all brought to life through immersive visuals and theatrical design.

    The show is directed by Mikko Angeles, with musical direction by Farley Asuncion, choreography by JM Cabling, set design by Ohm David, lighting design by Meliton Roxas, and visual projections by Justin Santiago.

    The concert sees the return of Lissa De Guzman, last seen by Manila audiences in her magnificent turn as Cassie in Theatre Group Asia’s “A Chorus Line.” Audiences and critics were unanimous in hailing De Guzman as a “world class performer whose command of the stage as Cassie is so palpable, showcasing incredible vocal control and power even while executing a grueling and high intensity solo.” This time, she is joined by her Broadway “partner” Allie Trimm (“Dazzling as the Good Witch Glinda” – New Yorker) as they take audiences on a magical journey that promises to leave everyone spellbound. Joining the two powerhouse divas is another powerhouse, Asia’s Phoenix Morissette, preparing for her return to the theater stage soon with The Notebook The Musical, making the evening a true celebration of artistry and world-class talent!

    The concert also marks a significant moment for the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, which has, since its opening in 2022, become a home for world-class productions. On its fourth year, it stands as a space where stories are told and where Filipino and international talent come together to create unforgettable experiences. Its success is made possible by the artists, audiences, creative partners, and communities who continue to believe in the power of performance.

    “After Oz with Wicked on Broadway’s Lissa De Guzman and Allie Trimm”

    An Ayala Land and Samsung Performing Arts Theater presentation in partnership with Theatre Group Asia and made possible with additional support from Make it Makati, Circuit Makati, Seda Residences Makati and El Nido Resorts | Friday, July 10 | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati.

    Ticketing details will be available exclusively at TicketWorld (ticketworld.com.ph) or by going to this link: https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/Show.aspx?sh=AFTEROZ26

  • UnionBank Brings Jesus Christ Superstar to Manila in Spectacular GMG Productions Staging

    UnionBank Brings Jesus Christ Superstar to Manila in Spectacular GMG Productions Staging

    Manila, Philippines — GMG Productions in partnership with UnionBank staged the gala night of the internationally acclaimed rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar last May 5, 2026 at The Theater at Solaire. Media, influencers, theatergoers and music fans turned out for a night to remember celebrating one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most enduring works.

    This production is yet another milestone of UnionBank’s long-standing partnership with GMG Productions that has brought over 10 major theatrical experiences to audiences in the Philippines. The partnership’s past highlights have included Hamilton, Miss Saigon, Dear Evan Hansen and The Friends Experience. With these initiatives, UnionBank remains committed to supporting the growth of live entertainment in the country and bringing world-class cultural performances to more people.

    Jesus Christ Superstar, told from the point of view of Judas Iscariot, explores the final weeks of Christ’s life. It deals with such serious topics as loyalty and betrayal, doubt and faith, the price of fame, and human frailty. Rock, opera, soul. The Manila staging combines all three, with a strong live band that includes electric guitars, driving drums and strong vocal performances.

    Leading the cast are:
    Gab Pangilinan as Mary Magdalene
    Luke Street as Jesus
    Javon King as Judas
    Ethan Hardy Benson as Pilate
    Grant Hodges as Caiaphas
    Kodiak Thompson as Annas

    The star-studded gala brought together leading personalities from the arts, culture and entertainment sectors, highlighting the cultural importance of the production in the Philippines. National Artist for Literature There was Ricky Lee, the master storyteller who has defined generations of Filipino storytelling. National Artist (dance) Adding historic gravitas was Alice Reyes, the trailblazing figure in Philippine ballet and theater who had played a significant role in earlier local stagings of the rock opera. Fresh from her victory, the newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Bea Millan-Windorski caught the spotlight on the red carpet in her first major public appearance as title holder.

    Audiences can look forward to such iconic songs as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and the emotional “Gethsemane.” The musical, by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice, has won critical acclaim and major awards (Tony, Grammy and Olivier) in successful runs in London, North America and Australia.

    UnionBank cardholders enjoyed the privilege of early access to an exclusive presale from November 3-6, 2025 and a 10% discount on tickets when public sales opened on November 8, 2025. Such benefits highlight the bank’s commitment to providing its customers with more than just financial services with enhancing lifestyle and cultural experiences.

    The Manila run of Jesus Christ Superstar is scheduled to run until May 31, 2026. UnionBank and GMG Productions have already announced their next collaboration: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The New Musical, coming in July 2026.

    This partnership signifies a common commitment to enhancing the Philippine cultural scene by bringing world-class performances to local stages, thereby cultivating a deeper appreciation for live theater and music among Filipinos.

  • Theatre Group Asia Announces Philippine music icon Celeste Legaspi as Older Allie in The Notebook, The Musical

    Theatre Group Asia Announces Philippine music icon Celeste Legaspi as Older Allie in The Notebook, The Musical

    Theatre Group Asia proudly announces acclaimed iconic Filipino performer Celeste Legaspi will take on the role of Older Allie in its highly anticipated production of The Notebook, The Musical. A defining figure in Philippine performing arts, Legaspi brings with her not only a storied career, but a lifetime of shaping the very landscape of Filipino music, theater, and cultural advocacy.
    Born into a family of artists as the daughter of National Artist for Visual Arts Cesar Legaspi, Legaspi’s creative foundation was established early. She began singing in kindergarten and rose to prominence in 1969 as part of The Ambivalent Crowd before transitioning into a solo career that would redefine the possibilities of Original Pilipino Music.

    Her splendid recording career boasts legendary successful albums such as Ako si Celeste and Bagong Plaka, Lumang Kanta that achieved gold and double platinum status, while songs like “Saranggola ni Pepe,” “Tuliro,” “Mamang Sorbetero,” and “Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal?” became enduring Filipino classics. These works not only solidified her place in OPM history but helped popularize Filipino songwriting on an international scale.

    Parallel to her music career, Legaspi cultivated an extraordinary presence in theater. She appeared in early productions such as Showboat and Oliver! before gaining widespread acclaim through performances at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, where she collaborated with literary giant Rolando Tinio. Her repertoire would come to include seminal works like Manila, Manila, Doon Po Sa Amin, Jesus Christ Superstar, Katy!, Paglipas ng Dilim, North Diversion Road, and Ang Larawan, each contributing to the development of a distinctly Filipino theatrical tradition.

    In 1988, alongside longtime collaborator Girlie Rodis, Legaspi co-founded Musical Theater Philippines, a company that became instrumental in producing original Filipino musicals. Through this platform, she helped bring to life works such as KenKoy Loves Rosing, Alikabok, Sino Ka Ba Jose Rizal, Fire Water Woman, and Saranggola ni Pepe, championing narratives rooted in Filipino identity and history.

    Her contributions extended into film and television, where she worked with acclaimed directors including Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal, and appeared in projects ranging from Santiago and Mamang Sorbetero to contemporary series such as Can’t Buy Me Love. In recent years, she has taken on roles that explore aging and memory, including a critically recognized performance as an elderly woman living with dementia, earning a Best Actress nomination and further demonstrating her range and relevance.

    Offstage, Legaspi’s impact is equally profound. She served as founding president of the Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM), advocating for the rights and recognition of Filipino musicians, and helped establish PHILSTAGE, the country’s alliance of professional performing arts companies. She continues to serve the industry as Vice President of the Performers’ Rights Society of the Philippines, reinforcing her commitment to protecting and uplifting artists.

    Her lifetime of achievement has been recognized through numerous accolades: Aliw Awards for Entertainer of the Year and Best Actress, multiple Tinig Awards, the TOWNS Award, the Natatanging Gawad Buhay Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Ryan Cayabyab Award.


    TGA Creative and Overall Artistic Director Clint Ramos remarks, “It is our honor to have a Philippine icon play the role of Older Allie. This is a dream casting for us. Ms. Celeste Legaspi is a titan in the musical theater industry and Philippine music in general. She brings gravitas and wisdom to the role; and we can’t wait for the Philippine audience to see another side of this legendary artist. We are so excited to see the evolution of Allie’s character from her younger version with the vulnerable innocence of Sheena Belarmino, her blossoming through the strength and prowess of Morissette, and onto her full unravelling into the masterful insight of Ms. Celeste Legaspi.

    In stepping into The Notebook, The Musical, Legaspi embraces both the artistic challenge and emotional depth of the role. She reflects: “The characters in Notebook are interesting. How it shows their growth and learnings. To be able to portray that is a challenge. And as I study the music of older Allie I learn that the music is modern and exacting; at the same time I will need to get to the heart of her. A great challenge. And I love challenges. Accepting challenges has been my motivation through all my years.”

    Her portrayal of Older Allie is shaped by personal experience as well. “My family suffered when my mother got sick with Alzheimer’s for 10 years. It was one of the most difficult times in our lives. Although remembering that is painful, it will be my responsibility to honor my mother by bringing understanding and compassion to my role.”

    As a pioneer who has witnessed the evolution of Philippine theater firsthand, she reflects on its journey, “I still remember the times when we were more numerous on stage than the audience. A painful but learning time. We, the thespians, would always be even more driven to deliver our best. I have watched many young actors these recent past years and the talent is amazing! It just emphasizes that the Filipino has no equal in creativity and talent in many fields.”

    Her advice remains grounded in excellence and responsibility, “My advice would be to always seek for excellence. In whatever role, big or small. The unique feature of theater is that it’s live… every minute is exciting and unpredictable. Thus it is all our responsibility to deliver only our very best, keeping audiences interested and mesmerized. That we can control and realize!”
    And at the heart of the story she now helps tell through The Notebook, The Musical, she describes, “What I see is the family. How its strength helps us all; how love as it goes through the ages can remain even stronger and more textured. When we say ‘love story’ it does not remain the same. It transforms and changes. That is the strength of true love.”

    With Celeste Legaspi bringing her unparalleled legacy, emotional insight, and lifelong dedication to the craft, TGA’s production promises to be a landmark theatrical event, one that honors both a beloved story and the enduring brilliance of Filipino artistry.

    Together with Morissette as Middle Allie and Sheena Belarmino, the casting reflects TGA’s commitment to assembling a multi-generational ensemble capable of capturing the sweeping emotional scope of The Notebook: The Musical. Featuring music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson and a Tony Award-nominated book by Bekah Brunstetter, the musical is celebrated for its intimate storytelling and its portrayal of love as it evolves through youth, adulthood, and old age.

    Watch Celeste Legaspi’s performance of “I Know” from The Notebook: The Musical.


    For more information, visit TGA’s website www.theatregroupasia.com, Instagram @theatregroupasia, or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/theatregroupasia.

  • Les Misérables in Manila: A Mirror of Filipino Resilience and Revolution!

    Les Misérables in Manila: A Mirror of Filipino Resilience and Revolution!

    At its core, the musical’s themes, poverty, social injustice, oppression, survival through hardship, redemption, and especially “righteous revolution” strike a chord in a country with a long history of fighting inequality and standing against tyranny. We Filipinos see ourselves in the barricade alongside the students of “Do You Hear the People Sing?” as they rise against injustice, reflecting our collective struggles for dignity and change amid ongoing economic challenges and systemic issues.

    This show builds on the Les Misérables: The Staged Concert model by adding new set design and lighting to make it a great theater experience. Lea Salonga plays Madame Thénardier, Rachelle Ann Go plays Fantine, Red Concepcion plays Thénardier, and Emily Bautista, who is making her Manila debut as Eponine. Their involvement adds a meaningful local touch, bringing together stars from around the world with stars from the area. Filipino audiences now connect with several strong, interconnected reasons that make it feel less like foreign theater and more like a mirror to real life.

    The story’s portrayal of desperation, stealing bread for survival, mothers sacrificing everything, the marginalized scraping by, feels achingly familiar in a society where resilience and communal support are cultural strengths. It’s not escapism; it’s recognition. The production employs over 100 staff members and promises a polished performance that spans approximately three hours, presenting the enduring themes of redemption, revolution, and resilience found in Victor Hugo’s narrative. The sound design is impressive and the balance between the live orchestra and vocal performances is perfect, which makes the whole thing more emotional. The live orchestra, which included Filipino and international musicians, was praised for providing a powerful audio experience. The technical aspects of the Solaire stage made the show feel more personal and emotional. The audience was full of excitement on gala night, with lots of applause and cheers. This Manila engagement is more than just a tour stop; it’s a celebration of Filipino talent set against a backdrop of great theater.

    The current 2026 Manila run amplifies this connection through strong Filipino representation, creating a profound “homecoming” vibe. We have loved Les Mis for decades amid ongoing societal reflections, it remains a timeless, cathartic reminder of why people fight, and why and how we sing through the struggle. It just fits so perfectly: it’s not just watched; it’s felt, claimed, and lived.

    Les Misérables: The World Tour Spectacular, celebrating the musical’s 40th anniversary, is currently being showcased at The Theatre at Solaire in Manila from January 20 to March 1, 2026.

    Special thanks to GMG Productions