Theatre Group Asia (TGA) brings one of the most beloved love stories of all time to the Philippine stage with the international premiere of The Notebook: The Musical, running September 3–20, 2026 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati. Based on Nicholas Sparks’ bestselling novel and the beloved 2004 film, the musical features music and lyrics by acclaimed singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson and a Tony-nominated book by Bekah Brunstetter.
Opening TGA’s 2026–2027 season, The Notebook: The Musical marks a significant milestone for Philippine theatre as the first international production of the Broadway musical. The Manila staging brings together an acclaimed Filipino-led creative and performing company, placing Filipino artistry at the center of a story that has captivated audiences around the world.
The musical follows Allie and Noah, whose extraordinary love story unfolds across multiple stages of their lives. Through memory, time, separation, and the choices that shape a lifetime, The Notebook: The Musical explores what it means to love someone deeply, to grow alongside them, and to hold on to the stories that make us who we are.
The Manila production is directed by Filipino-American theater director Nicholas Polonio, who returns to the Philippines to helm the international premiere. Based in New York City, Polonio is known for crafting emotionally rich productions and nuanced, deeply human performances. His directing credits include The Self Improvement and Male Preservation Society, or S.I.M.P.S., Mary Stuart, The Police, and POV: U Run Joe Biden’s TikTok, alongside development work with organizations including Ars Nova, New York Theatre Workshop, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Bedlam, Ma-Yi Theater Company, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Hangar Theatre, and Audible Theater.
A former New York Theatre Workshop 2050 Directing Fellow and Drama League Hangar Directing Fellow, Polonio has also participated in the Ma-Yi Writers Lab, Mercury Store Directors Lab, Roundabout Directors Group, Williamstown Theatre Festival Directing Corps, and Young Vic Genesis Directors program. He currently leads a directing seminar at New York University.
At the heart of the production is Ingrid Michaelson’s original score, which brings a contemporary musical sensibility to the timeless romance. Known for her intimate songwriting and emotionally resonant pop sound, Michaelson’s music gives voice to the characters’ memories, hopes, fears, and enduring devotion.
With a story that moves between youth and old age, The Notebook: The Musical examines love not simply as a grand romantic gesture, but as a choice made repeatedly across a lifetime. The production asks what remains when memory fades, circumstances change, and two people must find their way back to one another.
Performances run from September 3 to 20, 2026 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets are available through TicketWorld, with prices ranging from ₱900 to ₱5,500.
Theatre Group Asia’s 2026–2027 season is made possible with the support of Ayala Land, BPI, and Philippine Airlines.
For more information, visit theatregroupasia.com, follow @theatregroupasia on Instagram, or visit the official Theatre Group Asia Facebook page.
The Notebook: The Musical features music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson, a book by Bekah Brunstetter, and is based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks.
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