Vargas After-Hours (A Valentine’s Day Gathering)

Catch the stage adaptation of Jun Robles Lana’s acclaimed film "Anino sa Likod ng Buwan", a gripping psychological drama set during the height of military operations in Marag Valley in the early 1990s. This tension-filled production explores the intertwined lives of a husband, a wife, and a military man as they navigate politics, friendship, love, lust, trust, and betrayal in a dangerous and volatile era.

Starring Martin del Rosario, Elora Españo, and Ross Pesigan, with direction by Tuxqs Rutaquio, the play delivers a taut and suspenseful two-hour performance with no intermission. The March 15, 3 PM show will feature Edward Benosa, Denise Esteban, and Vincent Pajara in the lead roles.

Due to its mature themes, the play is strictly for adult audiences, containing simulated sex scenes, profanity, violence, and gunfire sounds.

"Anino sa Likod ng Buwan" has scheduled performances from March 1-23, 2025, at PETA Theatre Center. Tickets are available via Ticket2Me.

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

Experience the power of Filipino music and storytelling with 'Liwanag Sa Dilim,' a brand-new original musical debuting on March 7, 2025, at RCBC Plaza, Makati City. Featuring the music of Rico Blanco, this long-anticipated production by 9 Works Theatrical has been six years in the making.

The story follows Elesi, who was orphaned at a young age. After losing his adoptive parents, he embarks on a journey to uncover his past. Along the way, he meets Cris, who quickly becomes his trusted friend and ally in his fight to support the oppressed and underprivileged. With a compelling narrative and a soundtrack composed of Rico Blanco’s beloved hits, the musical promises to be a heartfelt and thought-provoking experience.

Starring Khalil Ramos, Alexa Ilacad, CJ Navato, and more, 'Liwanag Sa Dilim' brings together a star-studded cast and a timeless soundtrack that resonates with Filipino audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan of Rico Blanco or a lover of original Filipino productions, this must-see musical offers an unforgettable theatrical experience.

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

KISAPMATA, inspired by Nick Joaquin’s crime report The House on Zapote Street and Mike De Leon’s acclaimed film, comes to the stage with the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company. Running from March 7-30 at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, CCP Complex, this gripping production explores the harrowing reality behind a seemingly "perfect" Filipino family.

At the heart of the play lies a haunting power dynamic—a household where love and fear are deeply intertwined. As tensions rise, dark secrets unravel, revealing the suffocating control of a patriarch who dictates every aspect of family life. The chilling mantra, "Tatay knows best. Trust in Tatay. Trust no one else," echoes through the narrative, leaving audiences questioning the boundaries between protection and possession.

Presented by Tanghalang Pilipino, KISAPMATA delivers a compelling theatrical experience, blending suspense, drama, and psychological tension. Don’t miss this intense retelling of a true-crime story that has captivated generations.

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

The Philippine Book Festival is set to return from March 13-16 at Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall. Hosted by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), this all-Filipino book festival is more than just a marketplace—it’s a full-fledged literary experience.

This year’s festival highlights four literary realms inspired by Philippine fiestas:

• Aral Aklat (Pahiyas Festival) – Educational books and resources
• Booktopia (Panagbenga Festival) – Fiction, nonfiction, and poetry
• Kid Lit (Dinagyang Festival) – Children’s books and young adult fiction
• Komiks (Tuna Festival) – Filipino comics and graphic novels

Beyond book shopping, attendees can enjoy author meet-and-greets, book signings, cosplay contests, spoken word performances, writing workshops, and more. Esteemed Filipino writers, including National Artist Ricky Lee and historian Ambeth Ocampo, will be present for special sessions.

With free entrance, the festival is a must-visit for book lovers, aspiring writers, and families looking for an immersive literary adventure.

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

The Philippine Garden Festival 2025 is set to take place from March 13 to 16 at SMX Convention Center Manila, bringing together leading landscape architects, contractors, and industry professionals to explore the future of sustainable tropical resort development.

With the theme "Creating Sustainable Tropical Resorts: From Vision to Reality," this year’s festival will showcase eco-conscious landscape exhibits and host the much-anticipated PGF Conference on March 14. Attendees will gain insights from expert speakers discussing biophilic design, resilient communities, and eco-friendly construction techniques, offering real-world strategies for sustainable resort development.

Whether you’re a landscape professional, architect, or sustainability advocate, this festival provides an exclusive platform to connect, learn, and be inspired by innovative design solutions. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and stay ahead in sustainable tropical landscape development.

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