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Tatler Asia
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
The Sandbox Collective's ‘Side Show: The Musical' is Toff de Venecia's final love letter to Philippine theatre
Above Jon Santos interacting with the audience before the show starts (Photo: Gabriel Bohol) Before the show starts, the cast excitedly takes the stage and interacts with the audience—detached from their roles and asking questions. The day I watched, Jon Santos, who plays the Boss, mentions that we should get ready for a 'darker version of Bongga ', referencing his previous work in Bawat Bonggang Bagay . At a moment's notice, everyone snaps into character for a seamless transition to the start of the show. Ever committed to its advocacies, The Sandbox Collective starts Side Show with soundbites from prominent historical figures, but what struck me the most was former President Rodrigo Duterte's quote about the war on drugs. It was terrifying to hear once again, and to be used in this context reinforced what Santos had previously mentioned. See also: What to expect at the Philippine staging of 'Into The Woods' Above Reine Paisley in her theatre debut (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) JM Cabling's choreography, paired with The Sandbox Collective's partnership with Ivan the Selfie Magician, was one of the best parts of the show. The lively ensemble darting around the room while performing magic tricks set the tone—making it feel like I was at an old-timey carnival. It only gets better with Mark Dalacat's set design and Carlos Siongco's costume design, to which the production spared no expense. Above Marynor Madamesila and Tanya Manalang-Atadero as Daisy and Violet Hilton (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Above Krystal Kane and Molly Langley as Daisy and Violet Hilton (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Side Show 's casting couldn't have been done better as everyone—from the leads to the ensemble and alternates—infused their own unique variations to the roles. For instance, the Hilton Twins: Tanya Manalang-Atadero and Marynor Madamesila and Krystal Kane and Molly Langley gave us a glimpse of what it's like to be in their shoes. While the world around them can only see them as freaks, the show allows the audience to see past that. To us, the two aren't Siamese twins; they're just twins who talk and feel as we do. Above Jon Santos as The Boss (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) As the only role outside the ensemble that has no alternates, Santos masterfully commands the stage with his powerful presence as The Boss. It's a shame that his character has little appearance, as I would've loved to see more of his antics. Thankfully, Santos still puts on a show in the form of other characters that bear his signature flair. Read also: 'Intramuros Evenings' returns with a unique restaging of 'Ganito Na Kami Noon, Paano Na Ngayon?' Above CJ Navato as Terry Connor (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Above Reb Atadero as Terry Connor (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Above Tim Pavino as Buddy Foster (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Above Vien King as Buddy Foster with Krystal Kane and Molly Langley (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Terry Connor, Buddy Foster and Jake—three characters who are made night and day through the different approaches by six actors were nothing short of perfect. CJ Navato and Reb Atadero, as the charming Terry, both performed heartfelt solos but differed in how they swaggered around as an agency suit. While the former makes it seem as though he's truly fallen for one of the twins, the latter makes it feel more sinister, changing how one might interpret the story. Vien King and Tim Pavino, on the other hand, gave us flashy and modest versions of Buddy. Above Marvin Ong as Jake (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Above Joshua Cabiladas as Jake (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) By far, however, everyone pales in comparison to Marvin Ong and Joshua Cabiladas' portrayal of Jake. In each of their performances of You Should Be Loved , the audience erupted into cheers. Interestingly, Cabiladas bore a thick Filipino accent, which gave his songs a unique twang that made them all the more entrancing. Ong's version, while distinct from Cabiladas, was equally amazing. While Jake is a supporting character, the two's nuanced takes easily made him one of the most loved in the musical. Above The freaks performing close-up magic (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) Above The costume of The Masked Ragdoll during the intermission (Photo: Gabriel Bohol) Side Show 's cast is rounded out by its energetic ensemble, who took the time to learn close-up magic tricks for their roles as the freaks. Each member had a 'freak' that made them unique—from a bearded lady to an arsonist and a psychic. Come intermission, mannequins were put on display on stage, adorned with the freaks' costumes and labelled descriptions on what makes each of them special. Guests are encouraged to leave their seats to get to know the side show's denizens. Above One of the banners at the side show (Photo: Loreta Arroyo) As De Venecia's final directorial stint with The Sandbox Collective, one could say that Side Show is a culmination of his over-a-decade-long passion for theatre and is a fitting send-off. It was a beautiful blend of advocacies and theatricality which could be considered his magnum opus. The Sandbox Collective's Side Show the Musical runs until August 17, 2025, at the Power Mac Centre Spotlight Blackbox Theatre, Circuit Makati. For more information, follow their social media pages. NOW READ 'Les Misérables' returns to the Philippine stage in January 2026 James J Robinson's 'First Light' challenges the idea of religion as a way to control people 15th Gawad Buhay Awards: the complete list of nominees is here
GMA Network
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
'Side Show' Manila staging bares the heartbreak and humanity behind the spectacle
In its Manila staging of "Side Show," The Sandbox Collective transforms the black box of the Power Mac Center Spotlight into a vibrant, aching portrait of sisterhood, survival, and the desire to be seen and loved beyond the surface. Directed by Toff de Venecia, "Side Show" tells the true story of Daisy and Violet Hilton—conjoined twins who were thrust into the public eye as vaudeville performers in the 1930's. Their lives, marked by exploitation and longing, are brought to life with empathy and power by Molly Langley (as Violet) and Krystal Kane (as Daisy), alternating with Marynor Madamesila and Tanya Manalang-Atadero. At first glance, the world of "Side Show" is a circus, literally. The opening number immerses the audience in a carnivalesque spectacle, with dazzling costumes, bold props, and an ensemble of "freaks" who declare, 'Come look at the freaks!' Beyond the glitter, lies a powerful, deeply human story. Langley and Kane are a revelation as the Hilton sisters. Without relying on any prosthetics or gimmicks to show their conjoinment — just holding hands, walking and acting in tandem — they fully inhabit the twin dynamic. Kane infuses Daisy with comedic charm and fiery ambition, while Langley gives Violet quiet strength and vulnerability. Their chemistry is uncanny; they don't just look like sisters, they feel like one soul split in two. The emotional climax arrives with the haunting ballad 'Who Will Love Me As I Am?' which stopped the show in its tracks. Their rendition radiated both strength and sorrow, questioning society's narrow definitions of love and normalcy. 'Who will proudly stand beside me?' they sing, and for a moment, the audience holds its breath. The supporting cast does more than simply orbit the leads. They shine. CJ Navato as Terry Connor and Vien King as Buddy Foster (alternating with Reb Atadero and Tim Pavino, respectively) offer layered portrayals of the twins' would-be saviors and complicated love interests. Their hesitations and inner conflicts add tension to the already fragile hopes of Daisy and Violet. Marvin Ong's portrayal of Jake, the twins' loyal friend and silent admirer, is one of the show's quiet highlights. His solo 'You Should Be Loved' is stirring—an understated yet emotionally resonant plea that subtly underlines the show's central question: What does it mean to love, wholly and without condition? Of course, Jon Santos is magnetic as the exploitative Boss. Commanding and chilling, he draws both fear and fascination as the man who first caged the twins in a life of performance and control. His presence looms even after he exits the stage. But "Side Show" is more than its stars. The ensemble is a standout in its own right, with each performer carving out distinct characters within the carnival. Their powerhouse vocals and intense choreography inject the show with both spectacle and soul. Each ensemble member fully embodies their 'freak' identity, reminding us that the world is full of people just trying to belong. What makes "Side Show" especially powerful is that it doesn't just exploit the idea of difference. It questions it. The show doesn't dwell on disability, instead it zooms in on the Hilton twins' interior lives: their dreams, their heartbreaks, and their hunger for autonomy. This production asks its audience to look beyond the "sideshow" and recognize the humanity within. The result is a haunting, hopeful, and heartbreakingly honest portrayal of lives lived on the margins. In a landscape often filled with big-name musicals and familiar tales, "Side Show" is a rare gem—a show that doesn't just entertain, but moves. It challenges the audience to see beauty in the different, dignity in the overlooked, and strength in the strange. For Manila theatergoers seeking something both unique and emotionally resonant, Side Show is an unmissable experience. Until August 17 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit, Makati. — LA, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Theater Calendar: 4 must-see shows to catch this August 2025
This August, Philippine theater comes alive with stories that challenge, enchant, and ignite the imagination. From sold-out musicals to radical revivals, the stage offers something for every kind of theatergoer, whether you're craving fantasy, heartache, spectacle, or satire. Without a doubt, it's a month that celebrates both world-class imports and fearless Filipino works, each bringing a distinct voice and vision to the spotlight. Here's your guide to what's opening this month, numbered by start date: 1. Side Show: The Musical Runs: Now showing until August 17 Venue: Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati Based on the true story of conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton, "Side Show" explores the pain, wonder, and humanity behind the spectacle of 'freak shows.' Once displayed in circus tents, the Hilton sisters rise to vaudeville fame while navigating love, betrayal, and their deep longing for independence and normalcy. The musical features alternating casts—Tanya Manalang and Marynor Madamesila, and Molly Langley and Krystal Kane—as the twins, supported by a powerhouse ensemble including Bibo Reyes, David Ezra, and Gab Pangilinan. Directed by Steven Conde, the production by The Sandbox Collective shines with powerful vocals, stirring choreography, and a haunting score. More than a musical about identity, "Side Show" dares audiences to reflect on society's obsession with difference, and the price of being seen only for what makes us 'other.' 2. Into the Woods Runs: August 7 to 24 Venue: Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati Stephen Sondheim's beloved musical makes its much anticipated Manila return in a lavish staging by GMG Productions. With a dream cast featuring Lea Salonga as the Witch, Eugene Domingo as Jack's Mother, and Arielle Jacobs (Broadway's Aladdin) as Cinderella, "Into the Woods" promises a thrilling mix of nostalgia, wit, and emotional depth. The show intertwines multiple Brothers Grimm fairy tales—Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel—and follows what happens after the 'happily ever after.' It's a darker, wiser look at human desire, consequence, and connection, filled with Sondheim's signature lyrical genius and layered harmonies. For local theater fans, this is a rare opportunity to see a fully staged, Broadway-caliber version of one of the most influential musicals of all time—led by some of the country's most celebrated performers. According to GMG Productions, it's their fastest-selling title to date. If you missed out this time, fingers crossed for an extension or return run in the future. 3. Alice in Wonderland Runs: August 24 – September 21 Venue: REP Theater, Eastwood Mall Repertory Philippines is inviting families down the rabbit hole this August with its colorful, kid-friendly adaptation of "Alice in Wonderland." Featuring live music, dynamic choreography, and immersive sets, the show is a whimsical reimagining of Lewis Carroll's classic—perfect for young audiences and the young at heart. Directed by Cara Barredo, the play puts a playful spotlight on curiosity and courage, while offering a visual feast that includes larger-than-life costumes, fantastical characters, and interactive staging. It's also part of REP's Theater for Young Audiences series, which aims to foster love for theater among children through engaging and accessible storytelling. Whether you're attending with kids or just looking to revisit a childhood favorite, Alice in Wonderland offers a joyful escape into fantasy and imagination. 4. Walang Aray Runs: August 29 – October 12 Venue: PETA Theater Center, Quezon City After sold-out runs and rave reviews, PETA's "Walang Aray" returns with a fiercer and funnier revival that reclaims Filipino love, history, and resistance. A contemporary spin on Severino Reyes' zarzuela "Walang Sugat," the production mixes irreverent comedy, biting satire, and pop culture flair to tell the story of lovers caught in the crossfire of colonial repression. Directed by Ian Segarra with new artistic director J-mee Katanyag, this third run features refreshed staging, queer-inclusive casting, and new musical arrangements that deepen the show's themes. Still at its core is the timeless question: How do we continue to love, laugh, and fight amid wounds—both past and present? Backed by an ensemble cast and a live band, "Walang Aray" has become a modern protest musical that speaks to today's youth, tackling identity, resistance, and romance with wit and radical joy. —JCB, GMA Integrated News
Tatler Asia
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
Why you should watch The Sandbox Collective's ‘Side Show: The Musical'
Above Director Toff de Venecia gives his opening remarks The show also holds a special place in the young creative director's heart. He shares that the musical was his first foray into directing, which led to him helming the production of Little Shop of Horrors the following year. 'This was the first show that I ever directed on my own back in 2010. To have done Little Shop of Horrors last year and then Side Show this year, it feels like a full circle moment,' he says. Given that there are two versions of the musical—the original 1997 staging and the 2014 revival—De Venecia reveals that The Sandbox Collective will follow the latter. 'This is my favourite version of the show. It's the one that I grew up with and the one I directed before… It's also more political, so it's something that we could really sink our teeth into. Theatre is a platform for advocacy where we talk about social issues, and this is the perfect version of the show to do just that. It's similar but different,' he shares. See also: Virgin Labfest (VLF) 2025 courageously opens difficult conversations Above Marynor Madamesila, Tanya Manalang, Krystal Kane, and Molly Langley as Daisy and Violet Hilton Themed around identity, love and acceptance and set in a world that shuns being different, Side Show: The Musical tells a relevant story despite its historical and macabre setting. We've seen it in real life with violence as an answer towards pride marches and systemic racial inequalities. The musical is an ode to those who aren't seen as 'normal'—only next to it. 'Hopefully, when you watch it, you feel seen. Even if there's a part of you that you hide from everybody, we want you to feel validated when you watch,' says Reb Atadero, who plays Terry. Above Ivan The Selfie Magician performing during The Sandbox Collective's 'Side Show: The Musical' press conference In an effort to enhance the circus aesthetic and vibe, The Sandbox Collective enlisted the help of Ivan the Selfie Magician as their magic consultant. As a master illusionist and performer, Ivan has been teaching the cast how to do close-up magic and other seemingly impossible tricks. While The Sandbox Collective has playfully dodged questions on the extent of their stunts, it's safe to assume The Sandbox Collective's Side Show: The Musical opens on July 26 and runs until August 16 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater, Circuit Makati. For more information, visit their social media pages. NOW READ Reimagining the narratives of the past: the UP Vargas Museum highlights works by Lee Paje and Ampannee Satoh The Playbook Club's 'First Love, Last Love: A Twinbill' tells intimate stories of time and connection Repertory Philippines brings Yasmina Reza's acclaimed comedy play to the stage, offering insights into art's true value
Tatler Asia
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
Three masters, one stage: ‘Peter and the Wolf' and ‘Little Red Riding Hood' hit the stage this August
A classic fairytale by Charles Perrault dating back to the late 1600s, Little Red Riding Hood is a story we're all familiar with. In case you need a recap, it follows a young girl walking through the woods to bring food to her sick grandmother as the big bad wolf stalks her. To be directed by Ballet Philippines' Mikhail Martynyuk, Little Red Riding Hood will be a full-length ballet that features the compositions of French conductor Camille Saint-Saens and Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and promises a family-friendly approach to the beloved classic. 'Around the world, there are hundreds of versions of Little Red Riding Hood . We'll be reimagining our version to be more playful… We can't have the wolf eat the grandmother on stage,' says Martynyuk with a laugh. Ballet Philippines' Peter and the Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood runs for five performances from August 1 to 3, 2025, at the Theatre at Solaire, Parañaque. For more information, visit their social media pages. NOW READ Why you should watch The Sandbox Collective's 'Side Show: The Musical' The Playbook Club's 'First Love, Last Love: A Twinbill' tells intimate stories of time and connection Repertory Philippines brings Yasmina Reza's acclaimed comedy play to the stage, offering insights into art's true value
