City of Dreams Manila’s CenterPlay brings back the spotlight on multi-hyphenate artist Janno Gibbs who is set to perform on November 26 at 9 pm. Following a sold-out concert last year, the singer, songwriter, actor, and comedian is performing for the second time at CenterPlay Concert Series, known for featuring the best of local OPM (Original Pilipino Music) scene.
The veteran artist carved a three-decade career in the entertainment industry and has made a mark for his soulful pop and R&B songs. Also acknowledged as the country’s “King of Soul”, Janno Gibbs is behind notable hit songs including “Fallin”, “Binibini”, “Pinakamagandang Lalaki”, “Ipagpatawad Mo”, and “Sana Dalawa Ang Puso Ko”, among many other phenomenal hit songs.
Apart from being an icon in the local music industry, the versatile Janno Gibbs also has starred in variety shows, game shows, sitcoms, television series, and films since the 1980’s.
“Janno Gibbs Live at CenterPlay” will be followed by Ariel Rivera on December 3 and Jaya on December 17. They join the roster of featured OPM stars at CenterPlay including Neocolours, Moira, Juan Karlos, Rey Valera, Noel Cabangon, Raymond Lauchengco, Ariel Rivera, Ice Seguerra, “Soul Siren” Nina, Jinky Vidal, Jed Madela, Yeng Constantino, Daryl Ong, Imago, and The CompanY. The King of Soul’s anticipated concert also highlights performances from bands Highschool Playlist and Le Chic as well as from a DJ who are set to perform alternately from 7 pm to 2 am.
Guests can reserve a seat or a table with consumables starting at P3,000, comprising of bar nosh, burgers, fries, and beverages. VIP couch seats for a party of eight, and smaller seatings are also available. Designed for the ultimate entertainment experience, CenterPlay is a cool snack and cocktail lounge offering light meals, signature cocktail concoctions, beers, wines, and other beverages, and is built around the circular stage at the center of the main gaming floor.
Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of KAWS WINTER, a special knitwear collection by UNIQLO and KAWS, the brand’s newly appointed Artist in Residence. All items feature KAWS’ signature XX motif or his iconic COMPANION character, expressing the fusion of art and fashion. The colorful and warm lineup allows everyone to enjoy the holiday season in their own individual style. The collection will be available in Japan from November 21, but global launch dates vary by region.
The sophistication and comfort of UNIQLO with the playfulness of KAWS
Collaborations between KAWS and UNIQLO, which until now have focused mainly on more casual cut-and-sew items, are expanding to encompass a more diverse range of LifeWear. KAWS WINTER incorporates color-block motifs of red, green, and yellow, perfect for the holiday season. The COMPANION and XX embroidery accents add a special touch to UNIQLO core knits and accessories that bring warmth and as regularly gifted items represent connection with loved ones.
Selection of knit materials and a wide range of accessories
The knit selection includes items in cashmere, renowned for its rich texture, and lambswool with its soft warmth. The Kids lineup features items in soft Souffle Yarn™.
The collection also includes six types of accessory items. The knitted beanie and gloves with HEATTECH functionality are accented with the XX motif, while scarves with bicolor contrast are perfect as a styling accent. The Kids lineup includes knitted caps, mittens, and neck warmers in colors to coordinate with the Souffle Yarn™ sweaters for easy styling.
Commenting on the collection, KAWS said: “For my first collection as UNIQLO‘s Artist in Residence, I‘m pleased to be expanding our partnership into working with their knitwear. I love the sweaters they make and wanted to make a collection of everyday basics to get you through the winter months.”
About KAWS KAWS engages audiences beyond the museums and galleries in which he regularly exhibits. Over the last three decades, KAWS has built a successful career with work that consistently shows his formal agility as an artist, as well as his underlying wit, irreverence, and affection for our times. He has collaborated extensively with UNIQLO since 2016.
About Artist in Residence UNIQLO has a long history of collaborating with various artists, designers, and other creatives at the forefront of culture. The Artist in Residence role will be a comprehensive position that serves to introduce new collaborators, propose new creative concepts and join events alongside UNIQLO Global Brand Ambassadors. As the first Artist in Residence, KAWS will work to enhance the LifeWear philosophy of Art for All alongside UNIQLO museum partners and through events at UNIQLO Global Flagship Stores around the world.
The NBA will stream onDisney+ Philippines as part of a new multi-year agreement, it was announced today. This marks an expansion of The Walt Disney Company and ESPN’s global relationship with the NBA, bringing live coverage to Disney+ Philippines for the first time.
Under this agreement, basketball fans in the Philippines will get closer to the courtside action with special access to live NBA games, ESPN’s award-winning documentaries, and live broadcasts of NBA Countdown. They’ll also hear directly from legendary voices Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley on NBA Tip-Off and the Emmy Award-winning Inside the NBA.
Starting with the NBA doubleheader on Thursday, November 20 (Philippines Standard Time) – featuring the Houston Rockets at Cleveland Cavaliers at 0800hrs, and New York Knicks at Dallas Mavericks at 1030hrs – fans will be able live stream select regular season and playoff games, as well as marquee events such as NBA on Christmas Day, NBA Draft, NBA All-Star Celebrity Game and select NBA Summer League games, exclusively on Disney+. Each season, Disney+ Philippines subscribers can stream one NBA Conference Finals series live, with the other Conference Finals series and NBA Finals available to stream on delay.
“For millions of Filipinos, basketball isn’t just a sport – it’s a passion, a shared language and a powerful source of national pride. The NBA is deeply woven into the fabric of Filipino life, inspiring generations of fans and uniting local communities,” said Vineet Puri, Vice President and General Manager, The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia. “Through this unique deal, we are bringing basketball fans in the Philippines closer than ever to the teams and players they love with all the NBA-focused programming while enjoying the best in global entertainment all on Disney+.”
“There has never been a better time to be an NBA fan in the Philippines,” said Kelly Cooke, Head of Content Partnerships and DTC, NBA Asia. “Our collaboration with Disney+ Philippines makes it easier than ever for our passionate fans across the country to access the NBA, experience iconic moments from throughout the season and follow their favorite teams and players on the devices and platforms they use most.”
Enjoy exciting games alongside your favorite films and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and Hulu, all in one place. From blockbuster films like Marvel Studio’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, Pixar’s Inside Out 2, to brand new Korean content such as Tempest and The Manipulated, to Emmy-Award® nominated and winning general entertainment like Shōgun, The Bear, Grey’s Anatomy, Abbott Elementary, upcoming seasons of High Potential, The Simpsons, highly-anticipated new releases like All’s Fair and more,Disney+ is the plus you deserve and the ultimate streaming destination for families, friends and fans to discover new worlds and new stories.
For more information on the games and content available on Disney+, visit the FAQ sitehere.
Bonifacio High Street officially opened the 2025 holiday season with the unveiling of this year’s High Street Holiday, a dazzling celebration that transformed the city’s heart into a world of wonder, joy, and love.
In partnership with the Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI), this year’s festivities center around the BGC Grand Christmas Show 2025 titled “The Real Gifts Around the Christmas Tree.” The spectacular evening brought together world-class Filipino talent, heartwarming performances, and the magic of the season, all under the glow of the city’s 40-foot Christmas tree.
Reflecting the spirit of the evening, FBDC Chief Operating Officer Enrique Manuel Jr. shared, “Christmas reminds us to pause and reflect on what truly matters: spending time with family and loved ones, being a little kinder, and giving back in whatever way we can. It’s a time to be thankful for how far we’ve come, and to look ahead with renewed purpose, for the year to come.”
A Night of Music, Magic, and Meaning
The evening began with the ceremonial lighting of the BGC Christmas Tree, marking the official opening of A Christmas Dreamland. As the tree illuminates 5th Avenue, the stage came alive with a spectacular musical production co-presented by BGC and BAFI.
The performance featured the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) under the baton of Toma Cayabyab, joined by the Ateneo Chamber Singers and musical theater performers Kakki Teodoro and Vic Robinson. With curation & story by Maria Isabel Garcia and Rony Fortich as Musical Director, the show unfolded as a heartfelt musical journey that reminded audiences of this season’s true meaning.
Throughout the concert, Teodoro and Robinson enjoined the BGC community on a whimsical task: to discover what special gifts Christmas songs remind us of. As they sang beloved carols and modern holiday favorites, accompanied by Fortich on the grand piano, each piece of music stirred warm memories, happy feelings, and strong connections brought about by the holiday season. From every performance, soaring vocals, to the graceful choreography by Edd Ricafranca and the Stage Group dancers, and the stirring orchestral interludes, their show was an exhibition of the Christmas season’s magical essence.
By the show’s end, the duo revealed their list of five “Real Gifts” of Christmas:
Good cheer for everyone, everywhere
Family and friends you love and who love you
Grateful hearts
Peace for people, everywhere
Love for people, everywhere
Such heartwarming scenes culminated in a finale beneath a glowing Christmas star on the LED displays along 5th Avenue. As the music swelled, larger-than-life puppets by Puppet Theater Manila emerged– vibrant, moving symbols of gifts and Christmas icons that were especially designed to have people from the crowd attach themselves to them to be literally part of the symbols.
Designed to incorporate the presence of people, these towering figures brought the performance to life, transforming Bonifacio High Street into a shared celebration of joy, wonder, and togetherness.
Experience the wonder of the holidays and celebrate the magic of Christmas at the 5th Avenue of Bonifacio Global City, where lights, music, and dreams come together to create a season like no other. For updates and the full holiday schedule, follow Bonifacio Global City on Facebook and Instagram.
Tony, EMMY and five-time GRAMMY Award-nominated singer-songwriter Josh Groban announces his newest tour ‘GEMS WORLD TOUR’ with a concert in MANILA on February 18, 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets go on-sale on November 22 Saturday, 11AM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.
Josh Groban possesses one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music. Moreover, he continues to captivate fans everywhere as both a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic renaissance man. He has sold over 35 million albums worldwide, headlined legendary venues on multiple continents, and has also entertained audiences with acclaimed film and television appearances. His catalog spans a series of chart-topping blockbuster albums, including Josh Groban (5x-platinum), Closer (6x-platinum), Noël (7x-platinum), Awake (2x-platinum), Illuminations, All That Echoes, Stages (his first UK #1 album), Bridges, and his most recent release, Harmony. Along the way, he has packed arenas throughout North America, Europe, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Asia.
Extending his repertoire, Groban made his Broadway debut in 2016 with a starring role in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. He garnered a Tony® Award nomination for Best Lead Actor In A Musical. He has expanded his presence with appearances on Glee, The Simpsons, The Office, CSI: NY, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and The Crazy Ones as well as in the feature films Coffee Town, Muppets Most Wanted, and Crazy, Stupid, Love. In addition, he starred in the NETFLIX series The Good Cop in 2018. Groban maintains his position as the consummate American showman in 2022 and beyond. In 2022, he returned to the hallowed stage of Radio City Music Hall for his Great Big Radio City Show residency and launched a nation-wide live tour. Groban also starred in ABC’s special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration as none other than the Beast in December 2022.
In the spring of 2023, Josh took to Broadway once again, performing in the highly anticipated revival of Sweeney Todd, playing the title role which earned him Tony and GRAMMY Nominations along with widespread acclaim. Deadline:‘Groban makes himself over into a full-blown, and fully developed, Broadway star…His Sweeney is by turns sympathetic and monstrous.’ The New York Times: “The “gorgeously sung” part is no surprise with Groban, whose quasi-operatic pop baritone perfectly encompasses the range of the role, and whose technique makes sure every word is bell clear. That some of the songs are thus even prettier than usual is all to the better.”
This year, Josh released an 18-track career-spanning collection of songs, titled Gems. He also took to the Las Vegas stage for a sold-out, exclusive five-night run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace with its hits-focused production of the same name.
Josh recently announced Hidden Gems, a special collection that brings together ten of his fans’ most beloved and rare tracks – many of which have never been available on streaming platforms – along with one brand-new song. Over the years, Josh has released a wide array of deluxe editions, fan exclusives, and special international tracks. Now, these fan favorites have been carefully curated into a single collection that showcases the versatility of his musical journey. To herald the announcement, Josh shared his brand new song, “The Constant”, a stunning collaboration written by Josh and the acclaimed songwriting duo Pasek and Paul (The Greatest Showman, La La Land). It’s a beautiful addition to this collection of rare treasures, offering something fresh while honoring the songs fans have cherished for years.
He remains an active arts education philanthropist and advocate, and his Find Your Light Foundation helps enrich the lives of young people through arts, education, and cultural awareness.
Robinsons Land Corporation’s (RLC) newest premium lifestyle destination, Opus, ushered in the holiday season with “A Christmas Masterpiece” — an extraordinary night of music, flavor, and elegance. More than a holiday celebration, the event signaled RLC’s bold foray into the premium lifestyle space, ushering in a new era of sophistication and innovation as it continues to create world-class destinations.
Held on November 10 at Opus in Bridgetowne Destination Estate, the event brought together distinguished guests, industry leaders, and Quezon City officials to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
Hosted by Tim Yap, the evening’s highlight was a stunning performance by theater luminary Rachelle Ann Go and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO). Their world-class artistry and captivating performances held the audience in awe at the Opus Grand Atrium, which was transformed into a breathtaking stage for a truly magical holiday celebration. Adding to the evening’s allure was a curated culinary showcase, featuring dishes specially crafted by Opus’ esteemed dining partners.
The celebration culminated with the grand lighting of the Opus 60-foot Christmas Tree — a breathtaking and luminous holiday centerpiece, followed by a champagne toast led by Councilor Albert Alvin “Chuckie” Antonio III and Marge Santos-Mejia, Head of Business Permits and Licensing, representing Honorable Joy Belmonte, Mayor of Quezon City; James L. Go, Chairman of JG Summit Holdings Inc.; Robina Y. Gokongwei-Pe, Chairman of Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc.; Mybelle V. Aragon-GoBio, President and CEO of Robinsons Land Corporation; and Faraday Go, Executive Vice President and Business Unit General Manager of the Commercial Centers Division, Robinsons Land Corporation.
Your Lifestyle is Our Masterpiece
Opus continues to redefine the modern mall experience in the Philippines, a place where business, leisure, and community come together harmoniously. Since its opening in 2024, this shopping mall has become a vibrant hub where people gather, connect, and find inspiration from its curated experiences and elevated environment.
“Opus Mall’s design aesthetics goes beyond the shoppers’ regular needs,” said Ms. Kristina R. Lim, Vice President for Lease of Robinsons Malls. “Meticulously and thoughtfully designed spaces, refined architecture, and a carefully curated mix of retail, dining, and entertainment make every visit at Opus feel intentional and elevated.”
“Our vision has always been to create destinations that elevate how people live, connect, and experience life,” said Mybelle V. Aragon-Go Bio, President and CEO of Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC). “Opus, is our latest expression of Robinsons Land’s commitment to elevating the way people live, work, and gather.”
It is home to several “first-in-the-market concepts” that redefine the modern mall experience including Spatio, the first integrated shop-within-a-shop lifestyle destination that brings together upscale retail, a barber lounge, wine bar, café, and waxing salon in one curated space. Dave & Buster’s, the iconic American “eatertainment” brand, makes its Southeast Asian debut at Opus, seamlessly blending gourmet dining with immersive interactive play. On the other hand, St. Ali Coffee, a world-renowned Melbourne specialty café makes its Philippine debut also in Opus. Other culinary Opus A-listers are Sogeum by Soban, a premium Korean barbecue concept; Il Lupino, a refined Italian restaurant offering an elevated culinary experience; and coming soon, Nyx by Vikings, a high-end buffet destination where gastronomy meets grandeur.
For family entertainment, Opus features the first Funtopia Park, a steampunk-inspired indoor playground where kids can climb, slide, and explore freely, and the country’s first Family Cinema, redefining how families relax, bond, and enjoy movies together in comfort with world-class technology in cinema sound and laser projection.
Opus also boasts a curated mix of culinary destinations such as Wildflour, Paul, Breakfast at Antonio’s, Key Coffee, Kitchen, Manam, and Sobra Café, along with Epic Eats Food Hall, a lively dining space featuring diverse food concepts, comfortable seating, and an inviting ambiance located on the 4th floor.
“Opus stands out today because of the collective belief of our retail partners who share in our vision. Together, we have created an exceptional place where business, leisure, and community come together harmoniously,” said Faraday Go, EVP and Business Unit General Manager of RLC.
A New Chapter in Refined Living
Through A Christmas Masterpiece, Opus affirmed its vision: to redefine the mall experience into a masterpiece of lifestyle and design. Beyond shopping, dining and entertainment, Opus is where culture meets curation, where design and emotion converge, and where every moment is crafted with elegance and intention. Located within the country’s premier Bridgetowne Destination Estate, Opus stands as Robinsons Land’s latest architectural and lifestyle masterpiece — an evolving refined space designed for leisure-seeking families and discerning urban dwellers. With its upscale interiors, family and pet-friendly atmosphere, and its elevated retail and culinary offerings, Opus embodies RLC’s evolution into the realm of premium developments that inspire a new way of urban living.
V, a renowned singer, songwriter, and member of BTS, is set to take refreshment to the next level as the newest ambassador for Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. On November 17, 2025, Coca-Cola lit up its official social media channels with a striking first campaign visual — the global superstar showcasing his signature cool gaze alongside the bold, refreshing taste of Coke® Zero Sugar.
(BTS V for Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. Image Courtesy of Coca-Cola Philippines.)
V’s authentic and magnetic presence – defined by his artistic depth, effortless charm, and uncompromising spirit – is the perfect embodiment of the Coca-Cola Zero Sugar campaign: celebrating life’s best moments, all-out, with zero guilt.
From Tease to the BTS V’sCoke Zero Takeover
Last November 14, curious-eyed fans were treated to a teaser where the iconic Coke fizzles swirled into the silhouette of “V,” setting social media abuzz with anticipation. Now, the reveal is here and it’s unapologetically bold.
(Image Courtesy of Coca-Cola Philippines)
Stepping into a new dynamic chapter, V looks ahead to exciting projects much like Coca-Cola Zero Sugar’s bold and uncompromising flavor.
Spot V’s Coke Zero Sugar CampaignAll Over the City
Starting this November 2025, BTS V’s Coca-Cola Zero Sugar campaign will be unmissable across some of the city’s most vibrant touchpoints: from the streets of Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to the massive billboards along C5, EDSA Northbound, and EDSA Ortigas Southbound.
Pro tip! Snap your own photos of these visuals and share them using #AllOutSarapWithZeroCalories and #CokeZeroSugar to join the celebration online.
Zero Compromise. All-Out Taste.
Since his debut as BTS in 2013, V has been celebrated for his captivating charm and distinct low-pitch voice; and now, his dynamic energy meets the bold taste of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. Like the artist himself, Coke Zero Sugar delivers all-out sarap (deliciousness) without the calories, the perfect choice for those seeking great taste with no compromise and added sugar.
Want to bring the cool, confident energy of V to your everyday moments? Grab your Coke Zero Sugar today at the Coca-Cola Flagship Store online or pick a case or two at convenience stores and supermarkets near you.
Stay tuned for more surprises from V’s Coke Zero Sugar campaign by following the official pages of Coca-Cola Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
Marking a decade of collective action toward sustainability in the local Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering (HORECA) sector,The Philippine Sustainability Movement celebrated its 10th anniversary at the Sheraton Manila Hotel, bringing togetherleaders from the hospitality, retail, and advocacy sectors to set the direction for the next decade of responsible andtraceable food systems.
Initiated by Pristine Solutions, the milestone event focused on advancing organic, promoting certified responsibility, and strengthening traceability across the value chain — from farm to fork.
Christian Schmidradner, Founder of Pristine Solutions and Initiator of the Philippine Sustainability Movement shared,“Over the past ten years, the movement has grown into a collaborative platform for businesses, NGOs, and governmentagencies committed to environmental stewardship, ethical sourcing, and transparency in food systems.”
He added, “Our goal for the next decade is to make sustainability more achievable for all by helping more organizationsadopt responsible practices, so that we may continue to create tangible impact for our communities, people, and theplanet.”
The event featured a series of discussions and experience rooms focused on organic transformation, plastics reduction,animal welfare, and ESG integration in the hospitality and retail industries.
Among the highlights was the launch of PYC Foods and One World Deli’s ESG and Sustainability Framework, which aims to embed environmental and social accountability into everyday food operations.
“Trust and traceability are now at the heart of how we build food businesses,” said Roscila Anne Baylon, Head of Nutritionand Wellness at PYC Foods. “Through our ESG program, we’re ensuring that what we serve is not only safe and nutritious,but also responsibly sourced and transparently produced — because consumers deserve to know where their food comesfrom.”
Representing the global organic community, Alexandra S. Castillo Philippines’ Coordinator for Promotions and MarketLinkages at Naturland e.V., underscored how organic practices provide the foundation for stronger, more resilient foodsystems.
She emphasized how organic farming goes beyond environmental responsibility, but that it also promotes animal welfare,biodiversity, and community well-being.
“Organic is one of the ways sustainability can be achieved,” Castillo said. “At Naturland, we help bring this to life byequipping farmers with practical knowledge, supporting businesses meet organic standards, and empowering consumers tomake responsible choices with their food.”
This event coincides with ongoing efforts to grow the organic movement in the Philippines
through the “European Organic: Nurturing Every Juan” campaign, implemented by Naturland with support from the European Union, which seeks to make European organic products an accessible, everyday choicefor consumers. Part of this includes education programs that delve into what organic truly means and encouragingbusinesses to embrace organic options.
The 10th Philippine Sustainability Movement brought together representatives from the hospitality, restaurant, and retailsectors, including movers in the local sustainability space such as Greenpeace, Control Union Philippines, PAWS, WorldAnimal Protection, WWF Philippines, and the UN Global Compact Network Philippines.
Over the past decade, the Philippine Sustainability Movement has gathered businesses, hotels and restaurants, NGOs, andgovernment agencies toward a common goal: to strengthen environmental stewardship and responsible food productionthrough collaboration and education. It has helped raise awareness and adoption of sustainable practices in the country’shospitality and food sectors, moving supply chains toward more environmentally responsible practices.
Looking to the future, The Philippine Sustainability Movement aims to scale its impact– aiming to build more resilient andresponsible food systems rooted in accountability, transparency, and shared commitment.
The Sandbox Collective revealed the full cast of SPRING AWAKENING,which features a powerful ensemble of theater veterans and rising stars to open the company’s 12th year and 2026 season.
With book & lyrics by Steven Sater, music by Duncan Sheik, and based on the play by Frank Wedekind, SPRING AWAKENING is the groundbreaking, Tony Award–winning musical that follows the turbulent journey of adolescence, where silence is rewarded and curiosity is punished. Exploring timeless themes of mental health, sexuality, growing up, and family life, the show’s power lies in its ability to transcend eras and resonate deeply with audiences across generations.
Director Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan shared that the show’s story mirrors the oppressive ideas our society continues to grapple with.
“This bourgeoisie, which SPRING AWAKENING takes aim at, manifests today in the form of political elites, conservative religious sects, and a ‘parentocracy’ that seek to preserve the status quo — fearing the so-called corruption of youth and resisting what they deemed as ‘radical’ thought and rapidly shifting industries that are reshaping daily life,” Pamintuan said.
“The struggles faced by the young characters in the show — teen pregnancy, sexual and physical abuse, mental health issues, and self-harm — are the very challenges many young people continue to face, particularly in the Philippines,” he said.
THEATER VETERANS, RISING STARS TO TAKE THE STAGE IN THIS LANDMARK MUSICAL
A mix of Philippine theater’s stalwart veterans and rising stars is set to breathe new life into SPRING AWAKENING 20 years after it first premiered on Broadway.
“First Lady” of Philippine Theater Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo and multi-awarded artist Ana Abad Santos will share the role of Adult Woman. Meanwhile, “King of Philippine Musical Theater” Audie Gemora will step into the role of Adult Man.
Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo is a multi-awarded actress, director, and artistic director. Throughout her illustrious career, she has brought to life iconic roles such as Eva Perón in Evita, Fosca in Passion, Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd, and Diana in Next to Normal, as well as appearing in the Manila production of Miss Saigon. Most recently, she captivated audiences as the titular character in the Singapore staging of Kimberly Akimbo.
Making her much-awaited return to stage, Ana Abad Santos is a director, producer, and actress across film, television, and theater. She has earned recognition for her powerful performances in A Streetcar Named Desire (as Blanche DuBois), Portrait of the Artist as Filipino (as Candida), and An Evening at the Opera (as Miranda), among others. Most recently, she appeared in the film “Quezon,” portraying Carmen Hernando.
Appearing in over 70 plays, Audie Gemora is a stage, television and film actor, singer, recording artist, dancer, host, on-camera & voice talent for TV and radio commercials, director, choreographer, producer, impresario and educator. He has played major roles in productions like Pippin, Evita, and Les Misérables, and has won multiple Philstage Gawad Buhay Awards for his performances — notably for Sweeney Todd, The Producers, and La Cage Aux Folles.
Taking the stage alongside theater luminaries are Nacho Tambunting and Alex Diaz who share the role of Melchior Gabor; Nic Chien and Omar Uddin who alternate as Moritz Stiefel; and Sheena Belarmino who will play the role of Wendla Bergmann.
Returning to the Philippine stage after moving to New York, Nacho Tambunting began performing professionally in 2006 in The Sound of Music. Nacho Tambunting originated the role of Felix Starro, Jr. in Felix Starro—the first Filipino-American musical to premiere Off-Broadway. He was most recently seen as Jake in the world premiere of Everything Beautiful Happens at Night. A proud member of SAG-AFTRA and Actors’ Equity Association, he has also appeared on TV and in film.
Alex Diaz is a multi-hyphenate, Gawad Buhay nominated stage, film, and television actor whose journey began as a student radio DJ before being launched in Star Magic Circle 2013. He made his theatrical debut as Racetrack Higgins in Disney’s Newsies and was most recently seen as Chris Abueva in Bar Boys: The Musical.
Nic Chien made his professional musical theater debut in Matilda, and has wanted to be a theater actor ever since. He most recently played the role of Jack in Into the Woods. Nic has also made numerous concert appearances alongside his mother, Lea Salonga. In 2023, he participated in the English Speaking Union’s National Shakespeare Competition where he placed third.
Omar Uddin has been in the entertainment scene since age 12, being a regular for the fourth and fifth season of Team Yey! and 2 Good 2 Be True. He made his theatrical debut in Tagu-taguan Nasaan Ang Buwan? and has continued to play lead roles in shows such as A Christmas Carol, The Lion King International Tour, Bar Boys: The Musical, Next To Normal and, most recently, Quomodo Desolata Es?.
Star Magic artist Sheena Belarmino is a singer, dancer, and actress. She started her career in reality competitions like Dance Kids, Tawag ng Tanghalan Kids, and Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids. At the age of 8, she started her theater career in Cebu, and has since played iconic roles such as Basha in One More Chance: The Musical, Eds Delos Santos in Tabing Ilog, and Natalie Goodman in Next To Normal.
Also joining the cast are Angelo Martinez as Hänschen Rilow; Vino Mabalot as Otto Lämmermeier; Jam Binay as Ilse Neumann; Angia Laurel as Martha Bessell; Mijon Cortez as Anna; Felicity Kyle Napuli as Thea; Elian Dominguez as Ernst Röbel; and Davy Narciso as Georg Zirschnitz.
Angelo Martinez is a Singapore-based performer and the first Filipino to portray Evan Hansen in the Southeast Asian production of Dear Evan Hansen. He was last seen as Aaron Puckett in Kimberly Akimbo alongside Menchu Lauchengco-yulo. Spring Awakening marks his homecoming debut in the Philippines.
Vino Mabalot is an actor and stratospheric tenor known for his emotionally distinctive performances. He is currently performing as the Mock Turtle in Alice in Wonderland, and was recently seen as Tony Javier in Quomodo Desolata Es? and Gabe Goodman in Next to Normal.
Jam Binay is a sought after theater actress and has been seen in different roles in various productions such as Pingkian: Isang Musikal, Next to Normal, In the Eyes of the People, Bar Boys: The Musical, and understudy in Ang Huling El Bimbo.
Making her theatrical debut, Angia Laurel is a dynamic and passionate singer-songwriter and actor. She graduated from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde with a degree in Production Design for Theater, and has earned critical acclaim for her debut single “Back Again” under ABS-CBN Music’s Tarsier Records. Her upcoming single “Talon” is set for release this November, with her first full-length album following in early 2026.
Mijon Cortez is a musician, singer-songwriter, sound designer, and actor whose work bridges music and theater. She began her artistic journey in student theatre with productions such as The Importance of Being Earnest, Lady Aoi, and Las Viajeras.
Felicity Kyle Napuli is an actress known for her work in theater, television, and film. She has portrayed numerous characters onstage including Becky in A Little Princess, Matilda in Matilda the Musical, and Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King international tour. Recently, she is known for lending her vocals to the Tagalog dub of K-Pop Demon Hunters.
Elian Dominguez is a theater artist and eco-warrior with a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science from Ateneo de Manila University. He made his professional theater debut in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, which was followed by his role as Jepoy in Jepoy and the Magic Circle. He’s most recently seen in Bar Boys: The Musical.
Davy Narciso is a theater actor who has played different roles in productions such as Next To Normal; I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change; and Othello, among others. During his time in college, he also starred in various productions as an active performer of the Ateneo Blue Repertory.
Rounding out the cast are Female Swings Pappel and Nikki Bengzon, and Male SwingsLance Soliman and Gabo Tiongson.
Pappel is a singer-songwriter under O/C Records, and member of The Busking Community. She’s last seen in Side Show: The Musical and Bar Boys: The Musical. Nikki Bengzon makes her professional musical theater debut in Spring Awakening. She was last seen in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Ateneo Blue Repertory’s production of Next To Normal.
Lance Soliman is a musical theater artist, vocal coach, events performer, and recording artist. He was last seen in Alice in Wonderland and Jepoy and The Magic Circle. Gabo Tiongson is an accomplished performer, a virtuoso of the acoustic guitar, a versatile voice-over artist, and a champion at cheerdancing. He was recently seen in Alice in Wonderland.
With Pamintuan at the helm, the artistic team of SPRING AWAKENING also includes Ejay Yatco as musical director, Nunoy Van Den Burgh as choreographer, Missy Maramara as intimacy director, Wika Nadera as set designer, Raven Ong as costume designer, D Cortezano as lighting designer, Gabbi Campomanes as assistant director, Salve Villarosa as dramaturg, Aron Roca as sound designer, Sheik Completado as technical director, and Jaydee Jasa as hair and makeup designer.
SPRING AWAKENING is the inaugural show of The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati. The show will run from February 13 until March 22, 2026. Tickets are now available on Ticket2Me (tinyurl.com/SandboxSpring2026).
SPRING AWAKENING is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), New York, NY, USA.
For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok – @TheSandboxCo. You may also visit our website at www.thesandboxco.com.
You brush three times a day. You visit the dentist regularly. So why do you still have plaque and cavities?
Dentists around the world agree that it’s not just about what you eat. Your toothbrush and how you brush often also make all the difference for your teeth.
Are you still using a manual toothbrush? If yes, there’s your answer. Most manual brushes can’t reach deep into the back of the mouth, especially the tricky molars, where plaque can build up silently and cavities often begin.
And while brushing harder and longer feels like the fix, it can actually do more harm than good, leading to gum damage or bleeding.This is why you should consider using an electric toothbrush.
Next-level cleaning with an electric toothbrush
It’s not just a new tech fad. Today’s dental professionals are recommending electric toothbrushes, not just for those with oral issues, but for everyone, period.
The difference comes down to tech and technique. Electric toothbrushes don’t rely on guesswork. They clean with micro-vibrating bristles, better angles, and in the case of an electric brush like Oral-B, a round brush head that surrounds each tooth. That means more plaque removed, better gum health, and a smooth dentist-like clean feel even at home.
But what kind of electric toothbrush do you get? Are they all the same, considering they’re just motor-powered anyway?
Not so fast—not all electric brushes are made equally. Out of all the electric toothbrushes you can find at your nearest store or pharmacy, Oral-B is the only one designed by dentists themselves, giving you a dentist-like clean at home.
The Oral-B iO Series: Toothbrushes that do more
The high-tech Oral-B iO Series, which includes the newly launched iO2 and premium iO3, is designed to give every Filipino that chance to experience superior teeth cleaning.
The iO2 is the most accessible model in the lineup, designed for everyday use without the need for apps or timers. With just the press of a button, the brush will do the work—it’s really that simple.
Meanwhile, the iO3 offers additional features like Smart pressure sensors that guide your brushing force. It’s the only brush that lights up red when you’re brushing too hard, white when too light, and green when it’s just right, ensuring you clean thoroughly but also gently.
With these innovations from Oral-B, you really don’t need to change your brushing routine—just your toothbrush. With the Oral-B iO2 or iO3, brushing becomes easier, smarter, and more effective. Whether you’re a first-time electric brush user or someone who’s ready for an upgrade, the iO2 and iO3 are built to take your oral care to the next level.
A small change for a big difference. If your brush hasn’t changed in years, this is your sign: Make the switch to electric with Oral-B iO.
The Oral-B iO Series is now available in leading retailers nationwide.
