What’s on Manila: Best Things to See, Do, Eat, Drink on April 13-19, 2023

Ahh, another week is upon us, and you’re looking for cool things to get up to in Manila! We’ve saved you the hassle with The Beat Manila’s rundown of the best places to hit up and things to do right now—from blink-and-you'll-miss-it pop-up sights and new restaurant openings, to the hottest activities that you shouldn’t miss.
To keep your finger on the pulse of the city, follow The Beat Manila to see what’s best in store for the week ahead.
1. 'About Us But Not About Us' Screening
Jun Lana's "About Us But Not About Us," starring Romnick Sarmenta and Elijah Canlas, will be screening at independent theater Cinema '76 this week! The psychological drama, which won Best Film under the Critics' Picks at the 26th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Estonia, follows the story of a gay professor and his mentee. The two talk over a meal at a restaurant, which leads to the uncovering of secrets and lies.
When: April 11-14
Where: Cinema '76 Film Society, 2/F Terraces Building, Tomas Morato Avenue cor. Scout Borromeo Street, Quezon City
How much: P320
2. Carlo Calma's 'Diyosa' by Ballet Philippines
Ballet, architecture, art, electronic music, design, and fashion meld in Carlo Calma's contemporary adaptation "Diyosa." Centering on a mythical world of Philippine gods and goddesses, "Diyosa" will be performed by Ballet Philippines and choreographed by its Artistic Director Mikhail Martynyuk in hopes of kindling "a new conversation on sustainability that endeavors to remain relevant throughout the ages."
When: April 14-16
Where: The Theatre at Solaire, 1 Asean Avenue, Entertainment City, Parañaque City
How much: P618-P3,090 via TicketWorld
3. 'Encantada'
Lovers of dance, here's another show you should not miss. National Artist for Dance Agnes Locsin's "Encantada" is being staged anew to open the year's dance season. The production was last seen in 2011, when it went on to bag 10 Gawad Buhay Awards. Georgette Sanchez-Vargas and Carissa Adea will both reprise their roles, while former Cirque du Soleil member Kris-Belle Paclibar-Mamangun will join the cast to alternate the role of Babaylan with Adea. Make sure you book the evening shows, as these will be accompanied by live music by Joey Ayala himself and Ang Bagong Lumad!
When: April 14-15
Where: Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Hippodromo Street, Circuit Makati, Makati City
How much: P1,030-P3,090 via TicketWorld
4. Edamama's New Mama Expo
Are you or someone dear to you a new or expectant mom? Head on over to Edamama's New Mama Expo! This three-day event should be on top of your list if you are making your first jump into parenting! In partnership with Globe's GCash, GrabCar, and ShopBack, the expo will offer the best deals from brands like Pampers, Chicco, Joie, Aveeno, Tiny Buds, Johnson's Baby, Cetaphil, and so much more. First-time mom Iza Calzado will be a guest on the expo's first day, while other momfluencer merchants will also be present, such as Mommy Diaries, Jana Berenguer, and Angeline Quinto, among many others. Register here.
When: 10 AM, April 14-16
Where: Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall EDSA Corner, Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Mandaluyong City
How much: Free registration
5. The Lab Summer 2023 Dance Workshop
Wanna dance? If you're ready to commit to dance classes every weekend, then The Addlib Dance Studio's (TADS) The Lab Summer 2023 is perfect for you. This summer dance workshop is suitable for kids and adults who want to move it and groove, whether they're a beginner or experienced!
It offers various dance classes, such as hip-hop for kids, adult beginners, femme beginners for those who want to express their feminine energy, K-Pop dance covers, hataw nights, beginners heels, and so much more. The Lab Summer 2023 begins this Saturday and will culminate in a grand dance concert on June 10 at the SM City North EDSA Sky Dome.
When: April 15-June 10
Where: TADS, 2F New Frontier Theater Arcade, 7 Gen. Malvar Ave., Araneta City, Brgy. Socorro, Quezon City
How much: P5,000
6. 'Poetry' Screening

Cinematheque Centre will be screening "Poetry" this weekend not just in Manila, but also in its Iloilo, Davao, Negros, and Nabunturan locations. The South Korean-French drama film, which won Best Screenplay at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival, centers on 66-year-old grandmother Yang Mi-ja, who is diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease, and her journey in learning poetry.
When: 5:30 PM, April 15
Where: Cinematheque Centre, 855 Kalaw Ave, Ermita, Manila City
How much: P150
7. Angels Walk for Autism
The Autism Society Philippines' (ASP) "Angels Walk for Autism" returns this year to continue its advocacy towards an accepting, accommodating, and inclusive country. This free event started in 2007 and has only gotten bigger and better with each year. Prior to the walk, attendees will be treated to a talent pre-show by persons with autism, followed by the program proper. The ASP Angels Walk will last from 10 AM-12 noon, followed by a midday break before the ASP Authletics. Get free tickets via Eventbrite.
When: 7 AM, April 16
Where: SMX Convention Center Manila, Mall of Asia Complex, Seashell Lane, Pasay City
How much: Free
8. 'At Home' Exhibit
"At Home: Scenes From the Everyday" is an exhibit by Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan (Ang INK), the country's first and only collective of illustrators. The exhibit showcases the varied scenes and perspectives surrounding the concept of "home" and how it is interpreted. "At Home" will be available for viewing starting this Thursday and will have its opening reception on Saturday.
When: April 13-29, 12 NN; April 15 for the opening reception
Where: University of the Philippines Fine Arts Gallery, Bartlett Hall, Jacinto Street, Quezon City
How much: Free
9. Belgian-Filipino Fusion Dinner

If you're a sucker for fusion cuisine, this Belgian-Filipino dinner should be up your alley. Organized by the Belgian-Filipino Business Club (BFBC), the special dinner will comprise an appetizer of potato and leek soup with sourdough bread, Flemish beef stew for main course, Belgian chocolate soufflé for dessert, and Belgian beer or wine for drinks, as prepared by renowned Kapampangan Chef Sau. Registration will close on April 16. You may register here.
When: April 18
Where: Café Fleur, 5893 Enriquez Street, Poblacion, Makati City
How much: P1,000 for members, P1,500 for non-members
10. 'The Joy of Improv' Online Beginner's Class
Ever wanted to try out improv? Third World Improv has online improvisation classes this month, so you can learn about the art of improvisational theater from the comfort of your home. This beginner’s class will introduce you to the fundamental principles and techniques of improv so you can "find joy in everyday life." It comes in eight synchronous sessions. Buy tickets here.
When: 8 PM-10 PM, starting April 19
Where: Online
How much: P6,818.19 (eight sessions)
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