Easter Weekend at Edsa Shangri-La Manila

The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) is set to captivate audiences once again with a curated lineup of 12 award-winning and fan-favorite Japanese films. Running from Jan. 31-March 2 across select cinemas nationwide, this highly anticipated festival celebrates Japanese storytelling, culture, and cinematic excellence.

This year’s festival features a diverse lineup, including Academy Award-winning "Godzilla Minus One," the remastered edition of "Akira," and critically acclaimed films like "Perfect Days" and "Monster." Anime enthusiasts can look forward to "Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle" and "Sand Land," the final film by "Dragon Ball" creator Akira Toriyama.

Screenings will take place at Shangri-La Plaza Red Carpet Cinema, SM City Baguio, SM City Iloilo, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Davao, and SM City North EDSA. Admission is free, though a convenience fee may apply for online reservations.

Since its launch in 1997, the JFF—also known as EIGASAI—has been a major cultural event in the Philippines, attracting over 40,000 viewers annually. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Japan’s finest films on the big screen!

Event information edited for consistency and clarity by The Beat Asia.

The Sandbox Collective presents "Next to Normal," the Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical that redefined the landscape of modern theater. Opening in February 2025 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater, Circuit Makati, this production explores the raw and emotional journey of a family grappling with grief, mental health, and the fragile bonds that hold them together.

Featuring music by Tom Kitt and book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, the musical debuted on Broadway in 2009, earning three Tony Awards, including Best Original Score, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2010. Directed by Sandbox Collective’s artistic director Toff de Venecia, with musical direction by Ejay Yatco, this adaptation will feature a stellar cast of Philippine theater talents, including Nikki Valdez, Sheila Valderrama, OJ Mariano, and more.

A groundbreaking narrative that sheds light on mental health issues like bipolar disorder, depression, and grief, "Next to Normal" balances heart-wrenching storytelling with powerful rock ballads, creating an unforgettable theater experience.

Mark your calendars and be part of this bold and moving production. Tickets are available at Ticket2Me. 

Event information edited for consistency and clarity by The Beat Asia.

PETA’s ‘Control + Shift: Changing Narratives’ Festival returns this February 2025 with an exciting lineup of plays exploring historical, social, and political themes through bold and creative storytelling. Running from Feb. 6 to Feb. 23 at the PETA Theater Center, the festival showcases six main theater performances and eight experimental studio theater sets, offering audiences a diverse mix of narratives that push boundaries and inspire reflection.

The Main Theater highlights include the restaging of Melvin Lee’s "Kumprontasyon," a series of three one-act plays by Allan Palileo, Guelan Varela-Luarca, and Joshua Lim that address unresolved historical and political events. Other must-watch productions include Dominique La Victoria’s "Kislap at Fuego," a fairytale set during the 1896 Philippine revolution, and Mixkaela Villalon’s "Children of the Algo," a contemporary exploration of social media’s impact on Gen Z content creators.

The Studio Theater presents experimental sets like "UNBOXING," which promotes self-discovery, and "CODES OF CORRUPTION," which tackle ethical dilemmas in the face of modern and traditional corruption. Each set features original works, such as "Noche Buena," "Monit-Oh! Monit-Ah!" and "At Nagkatawang-tao Ang Verbo," performed by talented Filipino artists.

Tickets are available via PETA’s official channels and TicketWorld. Secure yours today!

Event information edited for consistency and clarity by The Beat Asia.

Feel the romance in the air at Araneta City with Love Beats in the City, a special Valentine’s Day celebration from Feb. 13-16! Experience a heartwarming lineup of activities, including Valentine’s Serenade, sweet treats, a photobooth, couple caricature sessions, and even tarot card readings on love.

Making this love month even more special, Jarren Garcia, the Charming Crooner from London and PBB Gen 11 standout, is set to serenade fans live on Feb. 15 from 3 PM-5 PM at the Farmers Plaza Activity Area. Whether you’re celebrating with a special someone or simply soaking in the romantic atmosphere, this is your chance to enjoy heartfelt music and delightful surprises at the City of Firsts.

Don’t miss out on these love-filled festivities designed to make your Valentine’s extra special. Bring your loved ones and let Araneta City make every heartbeat unforgettable this February!

Event information edited for consistency and clarity by The Beat Asia.

Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid returns to the stage with 'R E S E T,' a concert celebrating the music that shaped her legendary career. Set to take place at Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City on Feb. 14-15 and 21-22, this highly anticipated show invites fans to revisit the songs that defined her journey as one of the Philippines’ most iconic vocalists.

Known for her powerful voice and timeless hits, Regine will deliver an unforgettable performance featuring a curated setlist of beloved classics and fan-favorite tracks. With decades of influence in the music industry, she continues to captivate audiences with her vocal prowess and heartfelt renditions. Whether you’ve followed her career from the beginning or are discovering her artistry for the first time, this concert is a must-see event for OPM fans.

Secure your tickets early to experience the magic of Regine Velasquez-Alcasid live on stage.

Event information edited for consistency and clarity by The Beat Asia.