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.