On Manila Stage Now: Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4, Man of La Mancha, & More!
The curtain rises on a dynamic month for Manila’s performing arts scene, with stages across the metro showcasing a mix of genres, formats, and creative voices.
This June, live theater takes on many forms — from polished productions to emerging works — each contributing to the local theater landscape that continues to grow in depth and complexity. The result is a lineup that invites audiences to engage not just with performance, but with the ideas and experiences behind it.
Man of La Mancha
“MAN OF LA MANCHA” takes the stage June 5 to 28, 2026, at the REP Eastwood Theater, presenting Dale Wasserman, Mitch Leigh, and Joe Darion’s acclaimed musical inspired by the tale of Don Quixote.
Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Inquisition, the story follows writer Miguel de Cervantes, who stages a performance for fellow prisoners as part of his defense. The production features a cast led by Nonie Buencamino as Don Quixote, alongside Katrine Sunga as Aldonza and Marvin Ong as Sancho Panza. The show includes well-known songs such as “The Impossible Dream,” “Dulcinea,” “I, Don Quixote,” and “I’m Only Thinking of Him.”
Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sht! It's Live Sa Cheter!
“Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter!” arrives onstage June 19 to Aug. 16, 2026, at the PETA Theater Center.
The production marks the stage adaptation of the well-known film franchise, shifting its satirical lens toward the theater industry. At its center is Eugene Domingo, returning to portray a version of herself, joined by an ensemble cast that collectively reflects the creative community behind Philippine theater. The show presents a self-referential, meta-comedic narrative, examining the process of producing live performance. The creative team reunites Writer Chris Martinez and Director Marlon Rivera.
Ibarra... Ngayon
“Ibarra… Ngayon” runs June 11 to 21, 2026, at the GSIS Theater, featuring Derrick Monasterio in the lead role of Crisóstomo Ibarra.
The musical presents a contemporary adaptation of "Noli Me Tangere," focusing on the internal struggles and ideals of its central character. The work aims to connect audiences with the enduring themes of Rizal’s novel through a modern theatrical approach. Directed by Frannie Zamora and scored by Joed Balsamo, the production blends theatrical performance with original music, creating a staging that prioritizes storytelling and character development.
Paquita
“Paquita” will be staged from June 19 to 21, 2026, at the Aliw Theater, presenting the world premiere of Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s full-length staging of the classical ballet.
Based on the original choreography of Joseph Mazilier, Pierre Malavergne, and Marius Petipa, the play reintroduces the 19th-century ballet to Philippine audiences in its complete form for the first time. Set in Spain during the French occupation, the story follows a young woman raised among gypsies who gradually uncovers her true identity as themes of love, deception, and transformation unfold. As part of the PRIMA Performance Season, the staging reflects Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s personal curation of works significant to her artistic journey.
YEMAYA
“Yemaya” opens June 13 to July 5, 2026, at The Black Box at the Proscenium Theater.
The musical centers on a young boy whose ambitions lead him beyond his origins. The presence of Yemaya serves as a connective force between past and present, grounding the narrative in themes of heritage and continuity. The production balances intimate storytelling with symbolic imagery, offering a theatrical experience rooted in both personal and collective narratives. The ensemble cast includes Bituin Escalante as Yemaya, Tommy Alejandrino and Benedix Ramos alternating as Jesus/Mulo, alongside Sheena Belarmino and Ness Roque as Maya.
Live A.I.D.S. 36: Let There Be Laughs
“Live A.I.D.S. 36: Let There Be Laughs” returns June 26 to 28, 2026, at the IBG-KAL Theater in UP Diliman, marking another year for one of the country’s most enduring campus productions.
For over three decades, Live A.I.D.S. (Ang Istoryang Dinebelop ng SAMASKOM) has evolved into a defining platform for comedic and musical storytelling within the university and beyond. The 36th edition continues this approach, using humor as a lens to explore everyday realities and broader social themes. Through a mix of sketches, musical numbers, and ensemble performances, the production creates a stage space that merges entertainment with reflection.
Virgin Labfest (VLF) XXI: Hubo’t Hubad
Virgin Labfest is back from June 3 to 28, 2026 at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez. Now in its 21st year, the festival embraces the theme “Hubo’t Hubad,” presenting stories that examine identity, memory, and vulnerability in their most unguarded forms. The program features 12 original one-act plays; each selected for their fresh perspective and narrative voice.
Known for launching and supporting theatrical talent, Virgin Labfest provides opportunities for new playwrights alongside returning voices, while also encouraging experimentation in form and storytelling. Performances are organized into multiple sets, allowing audiences to experience a diverse mix of genres and approaches.
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