Category: Events

Phantom Siita 1st World Tour ‘Moth to a flame’ in Manila

Phantom Siita, Japanese 5-piece idol group known for their retro-horror concept produced by iconic singer and superstar Ado, is excited to announce their world tour Phantom Siita 1st World Tour ‘Moth to a flame,’ just over six months after their debut. The big announcement was revealed on the stage of legendary Nippon Budokan today during their solo concert Phantom Siita 1st LIVE 2024 ‘Haine.’ ‘Moth to a flame’ tour, the group’s first-ever tour (and a world tour!), will kick off in Taipei in January 2025 and spans 15 cities, marking it as a large-scale world tour for a new idol group. Phantom Siita’s leap onto the world stage—just two and a half months after releasing their debut album, “Girlhood Memories”—is definitely a must see.

Promoted by AEG Presents Asia and Ovation Productions, Phantom Siita 1ST WORLD TOUR ‘Moth to a flame’ in Manila will be held on 18 January 2025 (Saturday) at Samsung Hall, SM Aura.

Tickets available for purchase starting 8 November 2024 (Friday), 10AM PHT. More ticketing information can be found on smtickets.com.

“Our first world tour ‘Moth to a flame’ has been announced. While this is a venture into the unknown for us, we hope to reach everyone around the world who always supports us. We’re excited to showcase our ‘retro horror’ style to you all.” (Phantom Siita)

“Phantom Siita’s 1st world tour has been announced. I think it’s quite rare for a group’s first tour to be a world tour, both as idols and as artists. Please look forward to their bold and unconventional beginning of their artistry.” (Ado)

The tour title “Moth to a flame” symbolizes the fans who are irresistibly drawn to Phantom Siita. Although some may consider it risky for the group to take on the world stage less than a year after their debut, the title reflects the idea that, even knowing of the potential risks, fans are still drawn to Phantom Siita, like moths to a flame.

Tour website: https://phantomsiita-special.jp/mothtoaflame/

Phantom Siita 1ST WORLD TOUR ‘Moth to a flame’ in Manila

Date	18 January 2025 (Saturday)
Venue	Samsung Hall
Ticketing Link	smtickets.com
General On Sale	8 November 2024 (Friday), 10AM PHT

Phantom Siita 1st World Tour ‘Moth to a flame’ Tour Schedule

January 16, 2025 (THU)	Taipei – Legacy Taipei
January 18, 2025 (SAT)	Manila – Samsung Hall, SM Aura
January 21, 2025 (TUE)	Singapore – Capitol Theatre
January 23, 2025 (THU)	Kuala Lumpur – Zepp KL
January 28, 2025 (TUE)	San Jose, CA – San Jose Civic
January 30, 2025 (THU)	Anaheim, CA – House of Blues
February 2, 2025 (SUN)	Dallas, TX – The Factory in Deep Ellum
February 3, 2025 (MON)	Houston, TX – Smart Financial Center
February 6, 2025 (THU)	Chicago, IL – The Vic
February 8, 2025 (SAT)	NYC, NY – Palladium Times Square
February 10, 2025 (MON)	Toronto, ON – Rebel
February 13, 2025 (THU)	Utrecht – Tivoli
February 15, 2025 (SAT)	Paris – Bataclan
February 17, 2025 (MON)	Berlin – Metropol
February 19, 2025 (WED)	London – Electric Ballroom

About Phantom Siita

Phantom Siita is a 5-piece idol group produced by a Japanese superstar Ado. If modern-day idols were ‘butterflies,’ Phantom Siita would be a heretical presence in the industry akin to ‘moths.’ 5 members (Mona, Miu, Rinka, Hisui, and Moka) won their spots in the group through an audition with over 4,000 participants. Their debut single “Otomodachi” was featured on Spotify’s “Idol Pop Japan” playlist cover and sparked a trend on TikTok, with many dance videos being uploaded. The music video of their 2nd single “Just Wanna ×××× With You,” released in July 2024, surpassed 1 million views in less than a month with many comments from international fans. Phantom Siita also appeared as the opening act for Ado’s nationwide arena tour Ado JAPAN TOUR 2024 ‘Profile of Mona Lisa’ this summer, performing in front of huge crowd at arenas in major Japanese cities. On Nov. 1, they held their first solo concert, Phantom Siita 1st LIVE 2024 ‘Haine’ at the legendary Nippon Budokan.

<Phantom Siita Links>

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PhantomSiita
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phantom_siita_official
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@phantom_siita_official
X: https://x.com/PhantomSiita

<Quote by Phantom Siita>

Our first world tour, “Moth to a flame,” has been announced. While this is a venture into the unknown for us, we hope to reach everyone around the world who always supports us. We’re excited to showcase our ‘retro horror’ style to you all.

About the Producer Ado

A 22-year-old Utaite, Ado, became a mainstream name through her 2020 major label debut “Usseewa,” which sparked a social phenomenon. Ado’s first album “Kyougen” and the songtrack album “UTA’S SONGS ONE PIECE FILM RED,” featuring all seven songs she sang for the movie “ONE PIECE FILM RED,” have both dominated the charts and become long-lasting hits. She started her first world tour, Ado FIRST WORLD TOUR “Wish” in February 2024, and in April 2024, and she performed a two-day live concert, Ado SPECIAL LIVE 2024 “Shinzou,” making her the first female solo artist to ever hold a show at the Japan National Stadium. Her 2nd Original Album ”Zanmu” released on July 10th, and on October 24th, she released her first CD single “Sakura Biyori and Time Machine/ Shoka”.

<Ado Links>

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ado1024
Instagram (staff): https://www.instagram.com/ado_staff_official/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ado1024.official/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ado1024osenbei
X: https://twitter.com/ado1024imokenp

Ado Official Website: https://www.universal-music.co.jp/ado/

<Full Quote by Ado>

Phantom Siita’s 1st world tour has been announced. I think it’s quite rare for a group’s first tour to be a world tour, both as idols and as artists. The title, “Moth to a flame,” is the English equivalent of the Japanese saying “飛んで火に入る夏の虫” (like a moth to a flame). Some might draw a parallel between its meaning of knowingly stepping into danger and the group’s current situation, but Phantom Siita is the kind of true idol group that fans can’t help but reach out to, even knowing the risks. So perhaps the one flying into the flame is you, watching from the other side of the screen. Please look forward to their bold and unconventional beginning of their artistry.

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across four continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside American Express Presents BST Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, and Firefly — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Justin Bieber, Kenny Chesney, Paul McCartney, and Katy Perry, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as Goldenvoice, Messina Touring Group, Concerts West, The Bowery Presents, PromoWest Productions, Marshall Arts, Madison House Presents, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.

AEG Official Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | X

About Ovation Productions

Through the years, Ovation Productions has handled some of the biggest names in live entertainment. It has expanded the markets for international artists in the Philippines by pioneering in all major and minor provincial cities in the country aside from Metro Manila and has been awarded the Trailblazer Award by Filscap.

Ovation Productions has recently started ovationtickets.com in partnership with Singapore’s largest ticketing company, Sistic.com.sg. The company has also established BlastTV, an ad-supported streaming platform founded in 2023. With 20+ live channels covering sports and entertainment plus an extensive library of on-demand content including popular TV shows, blockbuster movies, news, and factual entertainment, Blast TV aims to revolutionize the way viewers consume live TV and on-demand programming. For more information, visit ovation.ph.

November 6, 2024

Step Into the Wicked World of Villain Ville This Halloween at Alabang Town Center!

If you’re looking for a spooktacular Halloween event to sink your fangs into, the gates of Villain Ville: The Sorcerer’s Lair at Alabang Town Center open from October 31 to November 3, 2024, to welcome children and adults alike for a fun celebration. Take your coven with you and check every Halloween activity off your bucket list: the frightfully extravagant, the delightfully funny, and the irresistibly cute!

Journey through the Eternal Forest and marvel at the bewitching displays that make the most awesome photo backgrounds. Keep your eyes peeled for shadows and scoundrels along the way.

It’s a wicked wonderland out there so make sure you pick up a potion at the Murky Mixtures area. Craft your gooey concoction and watch as it bubbles and glows to add a dash of mischief to your Halloween adventure!

Step into a world of neon magic as artists transform your look with a Glowing Face Art that illuminates in the Crystal Cavern. Whether you’re going for eerie or enchanting, this makeover will surely elevate your costume and make you stand out.

Head to the Magical Mess Hall for some coloring fun. There’s also a mirror on the wall where the fairest of them all can strike a pose.

Don’t forget to grab your Cauldron of Secrets, brimming with sweet treats, fun activity sheets, and a few more surprises.

To participate, register your kids aged 4 to 13 from October 28 to November 2, 2024, with a minimum single receipt of P2,000. Each pass grants entry to Villain Ville: The Sorcerer’s Lair for one child and one adult, including access to all activities and a loot bag. Activities will run in six time slots daily from October 31 to November 2, 2024, starting at 12:30 PM and continuing until 8:00 PM.

If you’re just looking to snap some photos, you can redeem a pass with a minimum single receipt of P500. Villain Ville: The Sorcerer’s Lair will be at the Activity Center from October 31 to November 2, 2024.

Don’t miss out on this spellbinding experience! Hop on your broomstick and fly over to Alabang Town Center this Halloween for a day full of magic and mischief.

Follow @alabangtowncenter on Instagram for more updates.

October 21, 2024
M2M ‘The Better Endings Tour’ Coming to Manila on May 2025

After 25 years, the beloved Norwegian pop duo M2M is reuniting for their first-ever headlining tour, and it kicks off in Asia. MANILA will be on May 1, 2025 at the Araneta Coliseum. Tickets will go on-sale on Saturday, October 26 at 12PM via TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide. Presented by Wilbros Live.

Marit Larsen and Marion Ravn, who shot to international fame in the early 2000s, are returning to the stage to celebrate their legacy.

“It was never a question of where we’d start our tour if we ever reunited – Asia was always the first choice. Some of our best memories are from there.” says Marion Ravn.

2025 marks the 25^th anniversary of M2M’s best-selling album «Shades of Purple”, and the fans of the duo have continued to listen to their music and begged for a reunion for a long time. Following their split in 2002, both Marit Larsen and Marion Ravn pursued successful solo careers, but the duo never performed together again – until now.

On September 22^nd(twenty-five after nine) Marit and Marion’s followers were sent into a frenzy when M2M posted a video of themselves singing a snippet of their most-streamed hit, “The Day You Went Away“. The clip went viral, racking up millions of views within hours, as fans flooded the comments with tour requests. And now, it’s finally happening.

“The Better Endings Tour” is the beginning of a new chapter for M2M, and it brings them back to Asia. Despite spending nearly a decade together, travelling all over the world and selling over 12 million albums worldwide, M2M never embarked on their own headlining tour.

“We’re finally getting to do what we always dreamed of. “I can’t wait to get back on stage playing music with Marit again”, says Marion.

“Making “Shades of Purple” changed our lives forever, and playing these songs together again, in the same room, while rediscovering both our music and our friendship at the same time, is a particular kind of magic. It feels powerful, like a celebration, Marit says.

“Let’s give this story a better ending. The ending it deserves. We truly can’t wait to see you (again).”

Follow @WilbrosLive on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

October 21, 2024
THEATER REVIEW: ‘Six’ is Fun-Filled History Lesson on Women Empowerment Disguised as a Pop Concert

I’m a musical theater puritan, growing up and raised on Stephen Sondheim, Maury Yeston, Kander & Ebb, and Lerner and Lowe. Later on, I discovered Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. So, I’m not the kind of guy who truly enjoys a jukebox musical, much less new musicals that stray so far away from what I am used to. I didn’t like the thought of ‘Hamilton’ until I finally got to see it and it completely changed my mind. So, I find it funny that I was against coming in to watch the musical ‘Six’ because of its usage of pop music as its aesthetic and motif; but I was – once again! – made to eat my own words and when I saw the show and realised how amazing it is.

SIX UK Tour 2023 | Pamela Raith Photography

The 2017 musical by Lucy Moss and Toby Marlow reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII – Catherine of Aragon, Ann Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Ann of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr – as an all-girl pop group, who are in a concert and decide to hold a competition to decide who would be the group’s main vocalist. The winner will be determined by who suffered the most under Henry VIII.

The whole show takes on a full pop concert aesthetic. The backdrop is a dynamic LED light board that plays off on the songs. The band, called “Ladies in Waiting” are on stage with the performers and also part of the show in their own nuanced way. The bright, structured costumes are a mix of 70s Eurythmics and Devo inspired outfits with added touches of Victorian-era designs. And the five actresses come out, singing their hearts out and calling out to the audience, in our case “Hello, Manila,” as if they were straight out of a tour (which they are).

SIX UK Tour 2023 | Pamela Raith Photography

The opening song, “Ex-Wives” got me afraid, and proved my point about how pop songs aren’t fit for musical theater. The song is in the narrative mode and tries to establish the characters and the setting in a pop song and it sort of comes off clunky and verbose. Musically, it feels all over the place and it made me feel smug and petty.

In-between, the actresses are doing an amazing job at bringing these characters to life. The women are feisty, filled to the brim with personality, and are all leads in their own way. To prove they suffered the most, they each get a song – a monologue, if you will – to explain the hardships they endured, and this is when my feelings about the show shifted.

Pamela Raith Photography

Each individual song, after the opening, tells a story about the sort of oppressive world women have to live through each day. There’s sexism, unfair beauty standards, and oppression of all sorts that somehow work so well in each individual story. The songs, when focused on just one person’s story works so well and each wife has their own distinct musical style that was purposefully inspired by an existing pop star (according to some online articles).

Pamela Raith Photography

The touring cast is insanely talented, and they take each song and just knock it out of the ballpark. Billie Kerr plays Catherine of Aragon and I love how she never hid her thick Scottish accent while playing the English queen who hailed from Spain. It creates a layer of artifice that fits so well to the show and adds another layer of humor that just fits perfectly. Yna Tresvalles plays Ann Boleyn, and she is so full of charm and spunk. In my opinion, her character has the funniest lines, and she keeps it going throughout the whole show. Jane Seymour, the only woman who King Henry VIII supposedly loved, is played by Liberty Stottor, who gets to sing the emotional power ballad. Her soaring vocals creates a truly emotional moment that helps break the hilarity of the first two songs. Hannah Victoria kills it as Ann of Cleves, whose song is ready for the Top 40 supremacy. Lizzie Emery channels Britney Spears as she portrays the provocative Katherine Howard, whose song is more an acting piece than a vocal piece and Emery sells the story of sexual exploitation so convincingly that it brings you back into the story (the way Jane Seymour’s song does). Finally, Eloise Lord nails Catherine Parr and has the unenviable position to play the character that turns the show around. Her incredible vocals turn her R&B flavoured song into a showstopper.

Pamela Raith Photography

I had to mention all the six actresses because they were all phenomenal. ‘Six’ is pretty much a monologue play that is sung-through and despite it’s silly pop-concert conceit, manages to really bring to light the sort of challenges women continue to face every day. They use the stories of the six wives but told with modern touches – lingo and jargon, dating apps, and the like – to show that the way the patriarchy has objectified women hasn’t much change in 500 years.

Pamela Raith Photography

Except for the first song, which I’m not a fan of, the rest of the songs fit perfectly as both narrative exploration of character as well as rousing pop songs that will get you clapping to the beat. It’s such a fun show that I was taken completely by surprise and fell immediately in love with the musical. In fact, I don’t want to listen to the album on a streaming site because I want to remember how it sounded with this touring cast in my head. I wish I could see it again and I wish more women get to see it for its message of reclaiming your identity from the patriarchy.

My Rating:

SIX the Musical is currently running for a strictly limited engagement at The Theatre at Solaire until October 20. For more updates and exclusive peeks behind the royal curtains, keep your eyes on gmg-productions.com and follow @gmg.productions. This October, the queens of “SIX” aren’t just rewriting history—they’re making it.

October 16, 2024
THEATER REVIEW: Theater as Voyeurism – A Review of ‘Request sa Radyo’

There’s a magic, a spontaneity, that live theater offers that movies can never really capture. I love both, dearly, but while the power of film as a storytelling technique is how it uses the camera to capture the essence and truth about life and the human experience – the camera (and editing) being able to come close to the subject, distend time, connect images together – theater allows us to see it in front of us in real time. The narrative is unfolding right there, on the stage, and if one is so bold (and one should never) you could get up and touch it. It’s that presence, what cultural theorist Walter Benjamin would call art’s “aura,” that makes the theatrical experience like no other.

This aura is pushed beyond its limits in the masterpiece play ‘Request Program’ (or ‘Request Concert,’ depending on the translation), a 1973 play by Fran Xavier Kroetz. It’s a roughly 70+ minute play with absolutely no dialogue. Just one person coming home after what seems like a long day and we witness their evening activities before going to bed. No dialogue whatsoever except the character switching the radio on, giving us a clue to what lies underneath.

At the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Circuit, Makati, a revival of the play with distinctly Filipino touches has been reimagined as ‘Request sa Radyo’. The production stars both Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon, who perform separate shows just an hour apart. It is produced by an incredible team, including theater director Bobby Garcia and stage and costume designer Clint Ramos, a 6-time Tony Award nominee and recipient of the Tony Award for Best Costume Design.

Bobby Garcia

At the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Circuit, Makati, a revival of the play with distinctly Filipino touches has been reimagined as ‘Request sa Radyo’. The production stars both Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon, who perform separate shows just an hour apart. It is produced by an incredible team, including theater director Bobby Garcia and stage and costume designer Clint Ramos, a 6-time Tony Award nominee and recipient of the Tony Award for Best Costume Design.

Clint Ramos

Theater, sometimes called Drama (as in “to dramatize” a story), usually follows an event, a complication or a struggle that can be enjoyable to watch or even disturbing, with the idea of evoking thought and emotion. It’s why we go to the theater or the movies: this never ending need to consume stories and to make it what we will. What separates ‘Request sa Radyo’ apart from almost all of the theater productions you’ve seen is that it asks us to observe and experience the mundane, the ordinary.

Photo courtesy of Sandro Paredes

The character simply enters her home – in this iteration, it’s a flat in New York, the character in hospital scrubs, either a doctor or a nurse, most probably a nurse – and settles in for the night. She cooks dinner – she actually prepares rice – and microwaves leftovers from the refrigerator. She washes a stain on her blouse while listening to the radio. Once in a while, she stares out into space. She eats her dinner. She cleans up. She does some art while listening to a radio station that markets specifically to Filipinos in America, playing mostly Tagalog songs and subtly creating the play’s narrative thrust.

Photo courtesy of Sandro Paredes

In the hands of Lea Salonga, a multi-awarded theater luminary, the role takes on weight and meaning. You’re expecting her to sing at any moment, but she enters with heavy steps and not an ounce of glamour or sophistication on her. The silence is deafening and, oftentimes, as she’s waiting for the rice to cook, she stares out into space and there’s nothing there to fill up the empty space except the songs from the radio. Salonga’s character is so striking from how numb she seems to be. It felt like this was a performance for film, surprisingly, like you want to come in close to look straight into her eyes. I was seated far away, and I was fascinated by the absence of drama.

Until that unsurprising ending note, which you can feel is coming, but you aren’t quite sure why or how you know.

Photo courtesy of Sandro Paredes

‘Request sa Radyo’ is a brilliant piece of theater and that is demanding and thought-provoking. Garcia and Ramos create a space – an actual living space – where Salonga can cook and clean and be as ordinary as she can be and it builds such a strange rapport with the audience. I can’t even help it, but I found myself saying things like ‘Lea washes dishes differently than me’ or ‘I’d switch off some of the lights’ and finding myself connecting with the character in some form or another.

Despite the lack of dialogue, the role is so difficult because, despite the fact that four hundred people are watching her, Lea Salonga has to go through her character’s evening routine as if no one is watching her. It’s an acting exercise that is a true test of one’s skill and talent: to be completely un-self-conscious and to be completely ordinary and mundane for 70+ minutes.

‘Request sa Radyo’ is a meditation on loneliness and longing. The art of theater and even movies is about voyeurism, but this amplifies it and highlights it where the play asks you to really just watch someone be without any real promise for a story. There is, though, if you look hard enough; and the experience is so riveting.

My Rating:

Request sa Radyo is currently running for a strictly limited engagement at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Circuit, Makati until October 20. For exclusive updates, including ticket sale releases, visit TicketWorld.

October 15, 2024
Unveiling Silence: “Request sa Radyo” Stars Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon in a Poignant Theater Experience

Yesterday, Manila welcomed the opening of “Request sa Radyo,” a unique theatrical experience that delves deep into the echoes of solitude through the meticulous nightly routine of a solitary woman. Staged at the prestigious Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Makati City, this play offers a profound exploration of quiet introspection and the hidden yearnings for connection. With internationally revered talents Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon alternating in the solo performance, this limited engagement is set to redefine theatrical storytelling in the Philippines.

The strictly limited engagement, featuring 20 performances, began on October 10 and will run until October 20, 2024, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre in Makati City, Philippines. Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon will take turns performing the solo piece in scheduled alternating performances.

The Essence of Solitude

Crafting Emotions Without Words
Franz Xaver Kroetz’s “Request Program” captures the essence of solitude through the meticulous routine of a solitary woman. Her interaction with a radio program unfurls layers of profound loneliness, portraying how isolation deeply embeds itself in human existence. This narrative beautifully converts mundane activities into a captivating exploration of the human condition, leaving the audience with lingering thoughts on the complexities of solitude.

Conversation in Spotlight – a talk moderated by Clint Ramos alongside Lea Salonga and Dolly de Leon

Stellar Cast, Stellar Performance

Featuring a duo of the Philippines’ most celebrated actors, this production sees Salonga and De Leon in alternating solo performances. Each brings their unique interpretation to the stage, enriched by their vast experiences and international acclaim. This casting choice alone makes “Request sa Radyo” a monumental event in Philippine theater.

Lea Salonga: A Global Icon
Lea Salonga, a beloved Filipino star renowned worldwide for her unparalleled voice and perfect pitch, has captivated audiences for decades. Her illustrious career includes iconic roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables, earning her both a Tony Award and an Olivier Award. Salonga’s undeniable talent and global reach make her a true icon in the world of theater. Reflecting on her involvement in Request Sa Radyo, she enthused, “When I was asked by Clint and Bobby if I was interested at all in this project, an experience that told a probable and possible story that absolutely applies to our people, I said sure, even before knowing the details. It will be a challenge though, but hopefully, it will lend a figurative voice to those who are suffering.”

Dolly De Leon: A Rising International Sensation
Dolly De Leon, a celebrated actress in film, television, and theater, has swiftly emerged as a global sensation. Her breakthrough role in the critically acclaimed film “EO” earned her Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations, solidifying her status as one of the most sought-after actresses in the world. De Leon’s versatility and passion for her craft shine through in every performance. She expressed her excitement about returning to the stage, saying, “I’m so looking forward to coming back to my first love, the theatre, after five long years, and I am equally excited that it is in Request Sa Radyo—a play that is relevant and timely.”

Behind the Scenes

A Creative Team Like No Other
The genius behind the curtain includes Clint Ramos and Bobby Garcia, whose visions for the play have set new benchmarks in theatrical storytelling. Ramos, a 6-time Tony Award nominee and recipient of a Tony Award for his designs in Eclipsed—making him the first designer of color to win in this category—brings his innovative design philosophy to the production, ensuring that every aspect resonates with thematic depth.

Garcia, a respected figure in the world of theatre, returns to Manila after a four-year hiatus to direct the play with a fresh perspective on loneliness and isolation—themes that are poignantly relevant today. Reflecting on his homecoming project, Request Sa Radyo, Garcia shared, “The last show I worked on in Manila was The Band’s Visit, which sadly never got to open because of the pandemic.

It was a poignant musical about loneliness, isolation, and the need for human connection. It feels almost like fate that I now return to Manila after four years to direct Request Sa Radyo, a chilling and haunting piece of theatre about those very same issues, but completely different in approach, form, and style. I am thrilled to be working with two of the country’s finest performers, Lea Salonga and Dolly De Leon, who will alternate in performing this unique theatrical experience about our universal need for human contact and the global crisis that is loneliness. I am also thrilled to reconnect with Manila audiences after some time away and re-engage with them through the art of storytelling.”

Experience the Unspoken

Engage in a Unique Theatrical Exploration
“Request sa Radyo” goes beyond traditional theater by offering a space to reflect on the silent struggles of everyday life. It challenges the audience to find meaning in silence and to connect with the undercurrents of solitude that we often overlook.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samsung Performing Arts Theater (@cpatofficial)

A Limited Engagement Not to be Missed

With a strictly limited run from October 10 to October 20, 2024, tickets are expected to be in high demand. Audience members are encouraged to secure their seats early to experience this unique and transformative theatrical event.

For more information on ticketing and showtimes, visit the Request Sa Radyo’s website or follow the show’s updates on Instagram and Facebook. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this extraordinary blend of talent and narrative, where every silent moment speaks volumes.

October 11, 2024
Celebrate Global Cat Day with Hard Rock Cafe Manila’s FREE Cat Awareness Seminar

In celebration of Global Cat Day on October 16, 2024, Hard Rock Cafe Manila at S Maison, Conrad Hotel, is hosting a fun and informative Cat Awareness, Behavior, Adoption, and Welfare Seminar from 1 PM to 4 PM. Whether you’re a seasoned cat parent or thinking of adopting a furry friend, this free event is the perfect opportunity to learn from experts and connect with fellow cat enthusiasts or get involved in helping stray cats.

A Purrfect Event for Cat Enthusiasts

The event will run from 1 PM to 4 PM, featuring talks by respected veterinarians on various topics essential for every cat owner. From diet and nutrition to deworming and general health, you’ll walk away with valuable knowledge about caring for your feline friends. There will also be discussions on spaying, neutering, and the importance of vaccinations, including rabies prevention. Expect discussions on:

Stray Cat Welfare: Hear how you can help stray cats in your community and the initiatives that support their adoption and rescue.

Health and Nutrition: Get expert tips on maintaining your cat’s well-being, including the best diet and nutrition practices.

Deworming and Vaccinations: Learn about the importance of deworming, spaying, and neutering, along with the critical role vaccinations, play in protecting cats.

But it’s not all serious! Expect a fun-filled afternoon with prizes, raffles, and giveaways for attendees. And yes, participants are encouraged to bring their pet cats to the event. Imagine an afternoon surrounded by fellow cat lovers, with a chance to win exciting prizes while learning how to better care for your pets!

Whether you’re a seasoned cat owner or thinking of adopting a kitten, this event is a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and learn from experts in feline care. The seminar will highlight important aspects of cat behavior and welfare, equipping you with the knowledge to provide the best care for your furry companions. You’ll also learn about the benefits of spaying and neutering, vital steps in ensuring a healthy and happy cat community.

Limited Seats, So Register Early!

This event is open to everyone, but with limited seats, make sure to register early to secure your spot. For inquiries, you can reach Hard Rock Café Manila at +63 917 144 9400 or (02) 8909 9809. For more information and updates, follow Hard Rock Café Manila on their official social media pages: Facebook and Instagram.

Don’t miss out on this pawsitively exciting event! It’s a great chance to learn more about your furry companions, meet fellow cat lovers, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon—all while promoting cat welfare and adoption.

October 7, 2024
Incognito Brings Smooth Jazz Vibes Back to Manila After 10 Years
Mark your calendars for November 10, 2024! Fans of the legendary British acid jazz band, Incognito, are in for a treat as the group returns to Manila after a decade-long wait. The concert, taking place at the New Frontier Theater, promises to deliver an unforgettable night of smooth jazz, funk, and soul — the band’s signature sound that has earned them a loyal following worldwide.

A Legacy of Jazz, Funk, and Soul

Incognito, led by the iconic Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick, has been a trailblazer in the acid jazz genre since the release of their debut album Jazz Funk in 1981. With a career spanning over four decades, the group has continuously redefined jazz by blending it with funk, soul, and a groove that keeps their music fresh and relevant.

The band’s long list of notable collaborators includes powerhouse vocalists such as Jocelyn Brown, Maysa Leak, Tony Momrelle, and Imaani. Their 1991 hit “Always There” catapulted them to mainstream success, peaking at number six on the UK charts. Since then, they’ve landed an impressive 13 albums in the Top 10 of Billboard’s Jazz Albums chart, with Tribes Vibes and Scribes being the first to hit in 1992.

Incognito’s Manila stop is part of their world tour, and Filipino fans are excited to hear timeless hits like “Still A Friend of Mine,” “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A Thing,” and “Deep Waters” live once again.

A Night of Music to Remember

With a reputation for electrifying live performances, Incognito’s Manila concert is set to be a night to remember. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the band’s music, the group’s impeccable musicianship and soulful energy are sure to leave you in awe. Bluey, the heart and soul behind Incognito, brings a passionate performance that celebrates the band’s history while showcasing the talent of the current lineup.

Presented by Ovation Productions, with Blast TV as the official media partner, this is a one-night-only event that no music lover should miss. Tickets will be available through TicketNet, so be sure to grab yours before they sell out!

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How to Get Your Tickets

To witness Incognito’s return to Manila, head over to ticketnet.com.ph for ticket reservations. Stay tuned for updates from Ovation Productions via their official website and social media pages for the latest news about the event.

Don’t miss out on what’s guaranteed to be a stellar performance from one of the pioneers of acid jazz.

Concert Details:
- Date: November 10, 2024
- Venue: New Frontier Theater, Manila
- Presented by: Ovation Productions
- Ticket Info: Available at ticketnet.com.ph
For the latest news on the concert and other events, follow Ovation Productions on their official social media channels:
- Facebook: @ovationproductions
- Instagram: @ovationprod
- Twitter: @ovationprod
Looking forward to catching Incognito live again in Manila? Use the hashtags #IncognitoLiveInManila and #OvationProductions to join the conversation and share your excitement!
October 3, 2024
A K-Pop-Powered Fun Run for a Cause: Join Run Fur Life 2024

Get ready to lace up your sneakers and grab your furbabies for the ultimate fitness and fun event of the year! The 9th annual Run Fur Life: K-Pop Edition is happening on September 29, 2024, at Robinsons Land’s pet-friendly Bridgetowne Destination Estate, right in the heart of Quezon City and Pasig City. This year’s fun run promises to be bigger, bolder, and more exciting with a K-Pop twist, all for a noble cause: raising funds for animal rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

A K-Pop-Inspired Fitness Adventure

Run Fur Life has grown to become an annual favorite, attracting thousands of animal lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike. This year’s edition is all about K-Pop! Dress up as your favorite K-Pop idol and get ready for a day filled with music, dance, and furry friends. Whether you’re a casual jogger or a seasoned runner, there’s a category for everyone. You can choose from 1K, 3K, or 5K races, and yes, your pets are more than welcome to join in the fun!

Participants can run solo or with their dogs in the 1K and 3K races. Don’t have a dog? No worries—you can still run solo and soak in the K-Pop vibes while supporting a cause close to your heart.

Fun, Furbabies, and a Good Cause

This year’s fun run goes beyond just racing. Run Fur Life: K-Pop Edition is packed with exciting activities and entertainment for participants of all ages. Before or after your run, join the Zumba dancercise sessions to stay energized and have some fun with your dogs. A lively bazaar will offer pet products, local crafts, photo booths, face painting, and K-Pop-themed merchandise. Of course, there’ll be plenty of food stalls serving up delicious treats for both humans and their furry companions.

For those with a competitive streak, there are mini-games where you and your furbaby can win prizes, making this a fun-filled day for everyone. Whether you’re there for the fitness, the fandom, or the furry friends, Run Fur Life has something for everyone.

Supporting Animal Welfare with Every Step

Robinsons Land’s longstanding partner Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF), has been a beacon of hope for animals rescued from cruelty, maltreatment, and the dog meat trade. As a non-profit organization, Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) leads rescue and rehabilitation efforts, working to end the inhumane treatment of animals in the Philippines. Since 2002, AKF has fought to stop the illegal dog meat trade, conducting rescue missions and providing shelter and care for rescued dogs and cats.

What makes this fun run extra special is its mission. Proceeds from Run Fur Life go directly to the Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF), a non-profit organization that has been tirelessly working to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need. Since 2002, AKF has been at the forefront of stopping the illegal dog meat trade and providing sanctuary for animals rescued from cruelty and neglect.

The funds raised will support AKF’s veterinary care, shelter operations, and rehoming efforts for the hundreds of animals they care for in their shelter in Capas, Tarlac. By joining Run Fur Life, you’re not just participating in a fun run; you’re making a real difference in the lives of animals that deserve a second chance.

But that’s not all! In addition to the races, Run Fur Life K-Pop Edition will feature a host of exciting activities and attractions for everyone. Zumba dancercise sessions will get you and your dogs moving before or after the race and a lively bazaar will showcase pet products, local crafts, face painting, photo booths and K-Pop-themed merchandise. Food booths will offer a variety of treats and snacks for humans and pets. At the same time, interactive mini-games will allow participants to win exciting prizes for themselves and their furry companions.

“RLC has been our staunch ally in various animal welfare activities through the years. More than the fun K-Pop theme, we are definitely excited for this year’s Run Fur Life because the run routes will be more enjoyable with exciting developments happening inside Bridgetowne,” Animal Kingdom Foundation Program Director Atty. Heidi M. Caguioa. “The lush greeneries are perfect for furbabies too,” she adds.

A Scenic Route with Iconic Sights

Held at the picturesque Bridgetowne Destination Estate, this event offers more than just a pet-friendly race. The estate’s lush green spaces provide the perfect backdrop for a fun and relaxed run, while also offering participants a chance to enjoy some of the area’s most iconic landmarks. The majestic 20-storey art installation Victor, the stunning 200-meter bridge designed by National Artist Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa, and the newly opened luxury mall Opus are just a few highlights runners can marvel at during their race.

How to Register

Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind event that brings together fitness, fandom, and philanthropy. Register for Run Fur Life: K-Pop Edition today, and be part of an unforgettable day that supports the incredible work of the Animal Kingdom Foundation.

To join or learn more about the event, visit the social media pages of Animal Kingdom Foundation and Bridgetowne Destination Estates. Whether you’re a die-hard K-Pop fan, a fitness enthusiast, or an animal lover, this fun run is for you—and your furry best friends!

All proceeds from the event will go directly to AKF’s rescue and rehabilitation programs. Profits and sponsorships for this event will allow AKF to continue providing life-saving veterinary care, rehabilitation, and rehoming efforts for animals rescued from cruelty and neglect.

It’s time to make a real difference for animals in need while having an unforgettable day of fun with your furbabies. Register today for Run Fur Life K-Pop Edition and help support the vital work of the Animal Kingdom Foundation in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals that deserve a second chance at life.

For more information, sponsorship inquiries, or to register, please visit Animal Kingdom Foundation and Bridgetowne Destination Estates social media pages.

September 26, 2024
Ang Pinakamakisig sa mga Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig

Co-presented by the FEU Center for the Arts (FCA) and Alumni Relations Office (ARO), the FEU Theater Guild (FTG) returns to the uncanny coasts of Isla Esteban and restages for the fourth time “Ang Pinakamakisig sa mga Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig” to close its 90th theater season.

Set on water, this mystery-filled play was adapted from Gabriel Garcia-Marquez’s “The Handsomest Drowned Man” by Teresa Lorena Jopson.

Jeff Hernandez composed the music, along with musical direction by Jesus Singh III (IAS ‘17).

Dudz Teraña, the Artistic Director of the FTG handled the overall direction and choreography. “I do not know another local group that successfully captured the Garcia Marquez magic-realist combination of otherworldly ambiance and ground human tragic-comedy,” wrote Arturo Hilado in the Philippine Daily Inquirer after he watched the late 2018 staging.

Premiering on October 2, 2024 at the FEU Center of the Arts Studio, the sound of mellow waves will welcome you to Isla Esteban where a big mystery threatens to disturb its calm shores.

As an FTG first, the play is set on water! “It’s challenging to work with water which we have not done in the past three stagings of this play.

This staging makes it so exciting,” remarked Teraña.

The play is accompanied by stirring musical compositions that move through this narrative tale brought to life by the skillful ensemble of actors and singers of the FTG.

There will be two sets of townspeople with an all-female and all-male principal cast with each character played by either current members of the FEU Theater Guild or its alumni:

Brigitta Marilla (IAS ’25), Kesiah Aritao (IAS ‘25), and FTG alumna Raven Relavo Singh (IAS ‘17) to play as ‘Pipi’ the narrator.

Kesiah Aritao (IAS ‘25) and alumnus Kobie Hachero (IAS ‘19) alternate as the hopeful ‘Buntis.’

Heleina Li (IAS ‘27) and Jonas Cunanan (IAS ‘25) take turns as ‘Ipokrita.’

Julia Ramas (FIT ‘26) and FTG alumnus Jasper Estaras (IAS ‘18) are the playful ‘Haliparot.’

Maria Delos Reyes (IAS ‘27)

and alumnus Jesus Singh (IAS ‘17) portray ‘Lola’

Raffaelle Pascua (IAS ’25) and Aaron Bayani (FIT ’25) alternate as the strong ‘Kapitan.’

Co-presented by Far Eastern University, the FEU Center for the Arts, and the Alumni Relations Office, you can catch the FTG’s “Ang Pinakamakisig sa mga Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig” at 6 PM on the following dates: October 2, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 30, and November 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 2024

Ticket prices are 200PHP for the FEU Community, 400PHP for Guests, and 600PHP for VIPs.

#FTGMakisig #TaraSaEsteban #FTGNobenta

September 26, 2024