Manila’s theater scene is taking center stage this October with a rich mix of psychological dramas, family-friendly musicals, immersive productions, and contemporary Filipino works. Unravel the mysteries of “ABOUT US BUT NOT ABOUT US,” step into a whimsical Wonderland with “Cirque Alice,” or revisit a Filipino classic through “Fiestas y Muertos.”
From intimate black box performances to large-scale spectacles, there’s something on stage for every theater lover this month.
ABOUT US BUT NOT ABOUT US
Question every motive and second-guess every revelation in “ABOUT US BUT NOT ABOUT US” from Oct. 2 to 25, 2026, at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater. What starts as a seemingly ordinary lunch between literature professor Eric and his student Lancelot slowly spirals into a tense psychological showdown, as long-buried secrets surrounding the death of Eric’s partner, Marcus, begin to surface.
With a rotating cast that includes Romnick Sarmenta, Elijah Canlas, Epy Quizon, and Kobie Brown, this acclaimed stage adaptation pulls audiences into a maze of guilt, desire, betrayal, and shifting truths where nothing is quite what it seems. Tickets start at P2,800.
PINOCCHIO: The Musical
Follow Pinocchio’s journey from being a mischievous puppet to a hopeful dreamer in “PINOCCHIO: The Musical” from Oct. 9 to 11, 2026, at the 2nd Floor Activity Center, Ayala Malls Feliz. This colorful musical adaptation of Carlo Collodi’s beloved classic fills the stage with lively songs, energetic dance numbers, vibrant costumes, and timeless lessons about honesty, courage, and kindness.
Starring Brie Mosquito as Pinocchio and Red Nuestro as Geppetto, the family-friendly production brings together seasoned theater performers and rising young talents for a magical theatrical adventure that audiences of all ages can enjoy.
Performances are scheduled on Oct. 9 at 7 PM, Oct. 10 at 1:30 PM and 5:30 PM, and Oct. 11 at 1:30 PM and 6 PM. For reservations and inquiries, contact Ephesus Teatron Group Inc. at +639459911840.
‘A Number’ by Caryl Churchill
Unravel a father-and-son mystery in “A Number” from Oct. 9 to 11 and 16 to 18, 2026, at WHYNoT in Makati. Caryl Churchill’s acclaimed sci-fi drama drops audiences into a disturbing conversation that begins with a family secret and spirals into questions about cloning, identity, free will, and what truly makes someone human.
This intimate production reunites Bart Guingona and JC Santos, with the latter also making his directorial debut while portraying multiple versions of the same character. With only 80 seats available per performance, this thought-provoking staging offers a rare chance to experience one of contemporary theater’s most compelling works up close. Tickets are priced at P2,800.
'Tententenen' by Teatro Marco
Spill the tea before the wedding day implodes in “Tententenen” on Oct. 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25, 2026, at Teatro Marco. This laugh-out-loud Filipino comedy dives headfirst into the chaotic world of influencers, viral scandals, and online brand culture, following beauty mogul Miss Bu as a Reddit rumor threatens both her dream wedding and her carefully curated internet empire.
Packed with eccentric content creators, over-the-top corporate drama, and plenty of Pinoy meme references, the play pokes fun at the highs and lows of chasing fame in the digital age. Early-bird tickets are priced at P850, while regular tickets are priced at P999.
Cirque Alice
Follow Alice through a dazzling Wonderland adventure in “Cirque Alice” from Oct. 17 to 18 and 20 to 25, 2026, at The Theatre at Solaire. Straight from the creators of “Mad Apple,” “The Illusionists,” and “Le Noir,” this spectacular production transforms “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” into a feast of acrobatics, magic, live music, and breathtaking visuals.
Featuring performers from Cirque du Soleil, international circus productions, and global talent shows, the family-friendly spectacle brings larger-than-life characters and gravity-defying feats to the stage. Tickets range from P2,000toP7,500, with select premium on-stage seating experiences available.
'The Discotheque Massacre' by Oro Teatro
A nightclub becomes the stage for paranoia, obsession, and a murder that may exist only in the mind at “The Discotheque Massacre” on Friday, Oct. 17, 2026, from 8 PM to 10 PM, at a secret venue in Quezon City revealed only to confirmed guests.
Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” this immersive production transforms a live club into part of the story, with audience interaction, a DJ set by Jolly V, and a fractured protagonist brought to life through competing Ego, Superego, and Id personas.
Blurring the line between theater, nightlife, and psychological horror, this one-night-only experience includes free-flow alcoholic drinks and beverages for approved attendees.
Fiestas y Muertos
Look beyond the fiesta and into the cracks of a society in “Fiestas y Muertos” on Oct. 23 to 25 and Nov. 6, 8, and 13 to 15, 2026, at the IBG-KAL Theater, UP Diliman. Opening Dulaang UP’s 49th Theatre Season, this bold reimagining of Noli Me Tangere transforms Rizal’s classic into a striking examination of spectacle, power, and social inequality.
Directed by José Estrella and based on Virgilio S. Almario’s Filipino translation, the production contrasts the grandeur of public celebrations with the hidden realities of oppression, inviting audiences to revisit one of Philippine literature’s most enduring works through a provocative contemporary lens. Tickets are P1,200.
Looking for more? Here are some ongoing theater shows from the previous month:
Bongga Ka 'Day: The Annie Batungbakal Musical
Rediscover an OPM icon in “Bongga Ka ’Day: The Annie Batungbakal Musical” on Oct. 2 to 4, 9 to 10, and 24, 2026, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.
Inspired by the beloved Nora Aunor film and powered by the timeless music of Hotdog, this feel-good musical brings beloved hits like “Annie Batungbakal,” “Ikaw ang Miss Universe ng Buhay Ko,” and “Pers Lab” to the stage in a colorful story about confidence, self-expression, and finding your place in the world.
Created by the team behind “Bagets: The Musical,” the production blends nostalgia, humor, and heart into a vibrant celebration of Filipino music and culture that appeals to longtime OPM fans and new audiences alike. Tickets start at P1,300, with performances scheduled at 3 PM and 8 PM on select dates.
Sayaw ng mga Ilaw
A dance, a flicker of light, and a child’s determination to hold on to hope lie at the heart of “Sayaw ng mga Ilaw” from Oct. 2-4 and 10-11, 2026, at the CCP Black Box Theater.
Adapted from Cheeno Marlo Sayuno’s acclaimed children’s story, this moving stage production follows young Laya as she navigates loss and uncertainty after her father fails to return home. Through the dream of performing the traditional Pandanggo and the support of family and community, she discovers resilience in the face of hardship.
Featuring music by Krina Cayabyab and direction by Jonathan Tadioan, the production offers a poignant and uplifting theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. Tickets start from P1,954.80.
