What's On MNL: Philippine Book Festival 2025, JISOO Fanmeet Tour, & More!

This May, Manila’s theater scene is bursting with energy, offering a diverse mix of shows that cater to every taste — from heartwarming musicals to thought-provoking dramas. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or a curious first-timer, these must-see productions promise unforgettable performances and captivating stories live on stage.

We Aren't Kids Anymore

A moving coming-of-age musical showing from May 2 to 25, 2025 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati. Follow five characters as they navigate adulthood’s messy truths — faded dreams, shifting goals, and personal growth with "We Aren’t Kids Anymore." Experience the emotional depth of music by Drew Gasparini and direction by Rem Zamora, brought to life by an amazing cast including Gab Pangilinan and Myke Salomon. Catch this raw and relatable 90-minute show that’s bound to resonate with anyone facing life’s turning points. Follow Barefoot Theatre Collaborative on Instagram for more updates!

Via Dolorosa

Unpack the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through David Hare’s powerful one-man play, “Via Dolorosa,” directed and performed by Bart Guingona at Karrivin Studios from May 2 to 4 and 9 to 11, 2025. Presented by The Necessary Theatre, this thought-provoking production blends theater and journalism as Guingona channels diverse voices to reveal deep-seated tensions, beliefs, and humanitarian issues still relevant today. Limited seats available — book early and follow their Instagram for exclusive updates and content. 

Sala Sa Pito

Explore the complexities of love and relationships with George de Jesus III’s Palanca Award-winning play, “Sala Sa Pito”, running from May 8 to 17, 2025 at FEU Center for the Arts Studio. Set against the backdrop of ’90s music, the play delves into pivotal moments in life, exploring whether love is something we control or something that controls us. With powerful dialogue and evocative scenes, it invites reflection on vulnerability, agency, and the tension between heart and mind. Enjoy live shows every day at 7:30 PM. Limited seating available, so book early via FEU’s official platforms. Follow their Instagram for updates and exclusive content.

PAW Patrol Live

Enjoy PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” happening from May 8 to 11, 2025, at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Bring your kids and all those kids at heart! Join Ryder, Chase, Skye, Tracker, and the pup squad as they embark on a treasure hunt full of fun, music, and interactive activities. Perfect for kids. Enhance your experience with the Sky Studio Package, which includes a stay at Solaire Resort, breakfast at Fresh for two adults and two kids, plus SVIP tickets to the 3 PM show.

Ballet Manila 'Swan Lake'

Witness the classic elegance of Ballet Manila’s “Swan Lake,” showing from May 30 to June 1, 2025, at Aliw Theater. Starring Esteban Hernandez and Katherine Barkman from San Francisco Ballet, this production brings Tchaikovsky's masterpiece to life with breathtaking choreography and lavish costumes. Catch performances on May 30 at 8 PM, and May 31 to June 1 at 5 PM. Tickets are limited, book now!

Delia D.

Catch the dazzling musical “Delia D.” this May while it’s still on! Running until June 8, 2025, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, this electrifying production follows Delia, a fierce drag performer, as she competes in the singing contest Idols of the Galaxy. With music by Jonathan Manalo, captivating choreography, and a blend of comedy, romance, and drama, Delia D. takes audiences on an unforgettable journey filled with ambition, passion, and personal growth. Starring Phi Palmos, along with Shaira Opsimar and Floyd Tena, this is a show you won’t want to miss. Catch it this May and book your tickets now before it’s gone!

Liwanag sa Dilim

Still running this May — don’t miss your chance to experience "Liwanag Sa Dilim"! This original Filipino musical, featuring the music of Rico Blanco, offers an unforgettable experience that takes audiences on a deeply emotional journey. The story follows Elesi, an orphan determined to uncover his past, blending compelling storytelling with Blanco’s timeless music. An all-star cast, including Khalil Ramos, Alexa Ilacad, and CJ Navato, Liwanag Sa Dilim delivers a powerful and thought-provoking theatrical experience that resonates long after the final curtain. Catch this incredible musical at RCBC Plaza, Makati City while it’s still on in May — get your tickets now and be part of this powerful Filipino storytelling journey!

In The Eyes of the People

Still playing this May – Catch "In The Eyes Of The People" from Company of Actors in Streamlined Theatre (CAST) and Mad Child Productions as it returns to The Mirror Theatre Studio again on May 3 to 4, 2025 after the successful play last April. Set in the picturesque town of Santa Cristina, the play delves into the conflict between science and politics, as the discovery of dangerous bacteria threatens a grand opening. A must-see performance that questions the balance between profit and public trust — get your tickets now!

M2M takes center stage at The Better Endings Tour, where fans can relive the duo’s iconic hits. Aurora Music Festival Clark brings two days of epic OPM performances, headlined by the powerhouse girl group BINI. TOTO also makes a long-awaited return to Manila for a one-night-only performance at SM Mall of Asia Arena! Whatever you're in the mood for, Manila's nightlife has something to offer.

M2M - The Better Endings Tour 2025 - MANILA

M2M—the iconic Norwegian pop duo—are back together and heading to Asia for the first-ever headlining tour of their career. This long-awaited reunion celebrates the 25th anniversary of their landmark album, “Shades of Purple.” Fans can look forward to a nostalgic and emotional set filled with signature hits like “The Day You Went Away,” “Pretty Boy,” and “Everything.”

Aurora Music Festival Clark 2025

The Aurora Music Festival 2025 lands at Clark Global City for two days of stellar OPM performances. BINI returns to headline both days, cementing their reign as P-pop’s leading girl group. Day 1 lineup includes Rico Blanco, Moira, TJ Monterde, Arthur Nery, and fellow P-pop group BGYO. Day 2 brings a fresh mix of acts, including Cup of Joe, Maki, Dionela, Flow G, and Over October.

TOTO LIVE IN MANILA 2025

Toto returns to Manila for one night only! The celebrated rock band behind enduring hits like “Africa” and “Rosanna” will perform live at SM Mall of Asia Arena, marking their first concert in the Philippines since 2008. The lineup features Toto veterans Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams, Greg Phillinganes, Shannon Forrest, John Pierce, Warren Ham, and Dennis Atlas. Get your tickets now!

Turnover's Peripheral Vision: 10th Anniversary Tribute Show

Turnover's "Peripheral Vision" turns 10 this year, and Old Forest Recordings invites you to honor the album’s legacy with a tribute show at Unknown 13 Pub. The night will feature live performances by local bands reinterpreting the album’s full track list—from the ambient pull of “Humming” to the aching clarity of “Intrapersonal.” The P350 entry fee gets you a free beer!

Alex Calleja - Tamang Panahon Ulit

Seasoned Filipino comedian Alex Calleja is back with a vengeance for another night of uproarious storytelling and quick-witted stand-up. Alex is set to deliver fresh material that promises all-new punchlines, real-life rants, and the kind of humor that hits close to home. The show is open to audiences ages 13 and up. Grab your tickets before they sell out!

NMIXX 2nd Fan Concert – NMIXX CHANGE UP: MIXX LAB IN MANILA

NMIXX is back in Manila for their 2nd Fan Concert, "NMIXX CHANGE UP: MIXX LAB." The popular K-pop group, known for their unique “Mixxpop” genre, is ready to showcase their powerful vocals and dynamic performances to their dedicated Filipino NSWERs. The concert will be a mix of hits from their debut and new songs from their latest EP, "Fe3O4: Forward."

The Art of Mixology

Be part of an exciting cocktail workshop at The Spirits Library in Poblacion! This hands-on session is an opportunity to dive into the world of mixology, where you'll learn the art of crafting three classic cocktails: Bramble (shaken and layered), Amaretto Sour (wet/dry shaken), and Old Fashioned (stirred). The P2,500 rate per person includes the cocktail ingredients and a selection of bites!

Golden Cinco: A Cinco de Mayo Aperitivo Night

Golden Cinco: A Cinco de Mayo Aperitivo Night at Oro Plato, Taguig, offers a dynamic celebration of culture with DJ sets from ALTROV, MYRCINI, and RAIN. VIP Lounge packages come with exclusive perks such as Spanish tapas served per table and crafted cocktails. RSVP now!

Cinco De Mayo: A Poblacion Street Party

Join Z Hostel’s vibrant Cinco de Mayo street party at Don Pedro Street and Alfonso Street, Poblacion. Savor delicious Mexican fare, margaritas, tequila shots, and groove along to DJ sets. The event promises a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect fiesta for all. Don't miss out on this ultimate celebration! 

Mark Michael Garcia with Rhythm and Harmony

Catch Mark Michael Garcia, "Tawag ng Tanghalan’s All-Star Grand Resbak" Champion, live at Social House, Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati. MMG's vocal prowess and heartfelt performances have earned him a devoted following, especially after his winning streak on ABS-CBN’s "It’s Showtime." Reserve your seats today by calling 09958846139 or 09774959294.

It’s another action-packed week in Manila! Fans of live theater can catch “We Aren’t Kids Anymore,” a powerful musical about the challenges and triumphs of growing up. Miss Universe Philippines is also back, with all eyes on the upcoming coronation night. Anime lovers won’t want to miss the Pinoy Otaku Festival 2025, celebrating 10 years of anime culture with a festival packed with competitions, performances, and fan meet-ups!

McDonald’s Kiddie Crew Workshop 2025 – Bootcamp Edition

McDonald’s invites young adventurers to the Kiddie Crew Workshop 2025 – Bootcamp Edition. Participants will get to enjoy activities like burger-making, taking mock orders, and assisting in restaurant areas. The fee includes daily McDonald’s meals, an exclusive workshop kit with a Kiddie Crew shirt, bag, bucket hat, and other surprises!

'I Animate' Animation Film Festival 2025

Animated cinema takes center stage at "I Animate" Animation Film Festival, with scheduled screenings at select SM Cinemas and FDCP Cinematheque Centres across the country. Audiences can watch critically acclaimed local and international films like Cinemalaya 2023 Best Film "Iti Mapukpukaw," Oscar 2025 winner "Flow," and beloved titles such as "Weathering With You," "Wolf Children," and "Loving Vincent."

We Aren't Kids Anymore

Growing up isn’t easy — and "We Aren’t Kids Anymore" refuses to pretend otherwise. Catch this soul-baring musical by Drew Gasparini from May 2-25 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater. Told through raw and relatable stories from five characters, the musical blends humor and heartbreak as it reflects on how dreams shift, friendships evolve, and reality often rewrites our expectations. The show stars Gab Pangilinan, Myke Salomon, Maronne Cruz, Gio Gahol, and Luigi Quesada. Secure your seats today!

Miss Universe Philippines 2025

The grandest night in Philippine pageantry returns with the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Coronation Night. This prestigious event will crown the country's next representative to the international Miss Universe stage in Bangkok. The evening will be hosted by Gabbi Garcia, Xian Lim, Tim Yap, and Erika Kristensen-Lee, with performances by James Reid and Marlo Mortel.

KUNG ANIK-ANIK: A Trinkets and Collectibles Art & Merch Market Year 2

KUNG ANIK-ANIK: A Trinkets and Collectibles Art and Merch Market is back! Discover a colorful collection of original art, handmade accessories, quirky stickers, unique collectibles, and abubots — charming little things you never knew you needed. The admission fee is priced at P100. Every ticket supports the Ayala Foundation's feeding program and typhoon relief efforts.

SECTION E NATION

Calling all fans of "Mutya ng Section E!" Join the "Section E Nation" for an exciting fan meeting filled with live performances, exclusive giveaways, and limited-edition merchandise. Celebrate the show with fellow fans and interact with lead stars Ashtine Olviga, Andres Muhlach, Rabin Angeles, and the rest of the cast! Grab your tickets today!

Tara, RUN! 2025

Get ready for a day of fitness, fun, and community spirit at Tara, RUN! 2025. This family-friendly event offers 1K, 3K, and 5K fun runs, cycling, Zumba, and traditional Palarong Pinoy games. Registration fees go from P500 for the Lite package to P1,400 for the Premium 5K package. Proceeds will support the Victory Imus-Lancaster Worship Center.

Baby Company’s Grand Baby Fair at Megatrade

Shoppers can get up to 80% off on various baby products and essentials, including strollers, car seats, nursing items, and more at Baby Company's Grand Baby Fair. Free Admission! Mom Card holders who spend a minimum of P10,000 will receive a free Wow Bag. The event also features easy payment options with 0% interest for purchases over P12,000. 

KOMIKET BGC

Komiket BGC is set to return at Ayala Malls Market! Market!, bringing together a diverse range of local komiks, art, zines, crafts, prints, stickers, and more. The event provides a platform for local creators to showcase their work and connect with fans and fellow artists. Admission is free! Bring your friends and shop for unique, affordable artworks!

Pinoy Otaku Festival (POF) 2025: 10-Shūnen (10周年)

Pinoy Otaku Festival (POF) 2025: 10-Shūnen celebrates 10 years of anime fandom. The festival features cosplay competitions, Harajuku and Japanese Street Fashion Competition, anime game challenges, live performances, and guest appearances by Pastel Mix, Meewo, Mirai and more. Tickets are on sale now, with options for day passes and VIP experiences.

This week in Manila, the spotlight is on performance in all its forms. The city welcomes global drag royalty with "RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq The World," while girl group MNL48 reintroduces itself with a powerful reboot. From the orchestral grandeur of the PPO’s send-off concert to the heartfelt storytelling of Ebe Dancel and mrld, the local scene proves once again that there's no shortage of talent — or reasons to go out.

SOS ‘It Was A Moment’ Album Tour

SOS hits the road this April for their "It Was A Moment" Album Tour. The tour opened with a headlining slot at "All of the Noise" at The Astbury and will move through venues like Mow’s, SariSari Cocktails, and Minsan Studio, offering fans multiple chances to experience the band’s new era up close. The band will perform songs from their newly released sophomore album, "It Was A Moment," a reflective, resonant collection that explores change, growth, and maturity as the band's members enter their 30s.

Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Send Off: The UK Tour 2025

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) bids farewell to Manila with a grand send-off concert on April 24 at the Metropolitan Theater. As they prepare to tour nine cities in the United Kingdom, this evening will showcase the orchestra’s exceptional musicality and global artistry. Led by the esteemed Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the PPO will present a rich program featuring works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Elgar, Delius, Vaughan Williams, and Ching.

SPF: Drag Avenue++

It’s not the weather — it’s the queens turning up the heat! "SPF: Drag Avenue++" storms Layaw, Makati, on April 25 with a sizzling dose of nightlife you won’t forget. This event will have powerhouse drag performers Aurora Boulevard, Uxhaina, Sela, Luna Eclipse, Beverly Boulevard, Din Delish, Shea Devil, and Elodie Laurent all in one stage. Come early to sip, socialize, and get into the groove before the queens take over.

#GNN10 presents: Pamungkas x scrubb Live in Manila

Pamungkas and Scrubb are joining forces for a Philippine-exclusive concert to celebrate Gabi Na Naman Productions' 10th anniversary. Both acts have previously performed to packed crowds in Manila, but this will be their first time sharing a bill in the country. Filipino bands The Ridleys and Shirebounds will also perform. VIP tickets (P5,200) include soundcheck access, a photo opportunity, merch, and premium viewing. General Admission (P1,900) provides full access to the evening’s performances.

MNL48 REBOOT AND RISE

MNL48 is back! The Philippines’ "first all-female idol group" returns stronger than ever with the "MNL48 Reboot and Rise" on April 26 at SM North EDSA, Annex Atrium. MNLoves can expect around ten live performances, filled with the energy and charm that made the group a pioneer in the local pop idol scene. Adding to the excitement is a special appearance by Quadlips, AKB48’s first international unit. Don't miss it!

EBE DANCEL Live at The Social Club at Street Kohi

Ebe Dancel is set to perform at The Social Club, Street Kohi, this April 26. The evening promises heartfelt performances from one of the most iconic voices in Filipino music. Ebe Dancel, former frontman of Sugarfree and now a celebrated solo artist, brings his timeless songs to life — from "Tulog Na" to "Bawat Daan" — in an intimate setting under the stars. Joining the night are opening acts Kathly Badiola and Joshua Kim.

I’m Working on It: A Stand-Up Comedy Special

Ever wondered how a comedy special takes shape? Joseph Montecillo invites you into the process with the "I’m Working on It: A Stand-Up Comedy Special in Progress" on April 26 at Mamser, UNWND Boutique Hotel. It's going to be a candid, behind-the-curtain experience where Joseph blends unreleased material with long-developed punchlines, fine-tuning every beat live with the audience. Opening the show are fellow stand-up comedians Margie de Leon and Dex Conche.

MRLD THE 7TH SENSE CONCERT

Singer-songwriter mrld makes her solo concert debut with "mrld 7th Sense" on April 27 at SM Skydome, marking the live premiere of her first full-length album. With breakout singles that have amassed hundreds of millions of streams, including “An Art Gallery Could Never Be As Unique As You” and “Ikaw Pa Rin,” mrld has captured hearts as one of the country’s most streamed female OPM acts. Her raw lyrics and dreamy melodies have made her a standout voice of her generation.

RuPaul's Drag Race WERQ THE WORLD 2025 World Tour in Manila

Brace yourselves for the fiercest spectacle of the year! RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq The World 2025 World Tour arrives in the Philippines. Catch the show in Cebu on April 29 at Waterfront Hotel and Manila on April 30 at the Araneta Coliseum. Hosted by Sasha Velour, the star-studded lineup features Jaida Essence Hall, Derrick Barry, Jorgeous, Roxxxy Andrews, Vanessa Vanjie, and Marina Summers from "Drag Race Philippines" and "UK vs. The World."

Paradise Music Festival

Experience summer at full volume with "Paradise Music Festival," happening on April 30 at Century City Mall. This party brings together top local artists and DJs Issa Loki, Pricetagg, Jennifer Lee, Jimmy Nocon, VVS Collective, and many more. This is your chance to dance the night away with a high-energy crowd in one of Makati’s most vibrant districts. Gather your crew, dress to impress, and gear up for a night of nonstop music and good vibes!