Alice Reyes Dance Philippines revives a Filipino classic with energy, innovation, and live music
Following a triumphant, high-energy opening at University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP), in collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and with the generous support of Pinay In Action, presents the strictly limited run of Alice Reyes’ Tales of the Manuvu at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati, on March 28–29, 2026.
A critical triumph: reviews from the UP run
The 2026 restaging has already captured the hearts of critics and audiences alike. Reviewers of the initial February performances at the University Theater praised the production’s ability to bridge the gap between 1970s counter-culture and modern technical precision.
Amadis Ma. Guerrero, writer, says: “A TRIUMPH! The Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ ‘Tales of the Manuvu’ was a hit when it was presented at the CCP decades ago… Seen again last night (Feb 27) at University Theater in UP Diliman, it turned out to be better than expected.“
Marge Enriquez of TheaterFansManila.com comments: “This restaging is more than a nostalgia trip; it’s a testament to the enduring power of Filipino creativity. The choreography remains sharp, and the fusion of the tribal and the electric feels as fresh as it did in 1977.“
A historic artistic collaboration
This masterpiece was born from the creative synergy of legendary Filipino artists. National Artist Alice Reyes provided the visionary direction and choreography, while National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera penned the libretto. Crucial to its iconic sound was the music composed by OPM icon Dero Pedero, with additional music by the rock band Afterbirth. The original production also featured stars of the Philippine theater and music scene, including Boy Camara, Anthony Castelo, Haji Alejandro, Celeste Legaspi, and the debut of newfound talent, Leah Navarro.
Reflecting on the production’s origins, National Artist Alice Reyes notes: “In 1976, Bien Lumbera and I were both delighted by E. Arsenio Manuel’s folk tales… We agreed that the tales could be rich material for a rock-opera ballet, a dance concept still in its nascent state in the Philippines. We opened on February 25, 1977, to a packed house in the CCP and never looked back. Forty-nine years later—and almost to the day—Tales of the Manuvu makes a strong comeback… Although dance is about change and movement, ARDP puts value and currency in proven works. It continues to foster a collaborative environment for Filipino artists—all in a mission to keep dance as an art form that provokes, excites, and engages the national spirit and consciousness.”
The 2026 restaging
The 2026 production is restaged by ARDP Ballet Master Lester Reguindin. This iteration features:
- New set and costume designs by award-winning director and designer Loy Arcenas
- Lighting design by Barbara Tan-Tiongco
A stellar cast of voice and movement
The production features a powerhouse ensemble of singers and dancers, continuing the tradition of featuring live vocalists and a rock band alongside technical brilliance. With a rotating cast, the production offers a unique experience at every performance. Audiences are invited to catch the different artistic interpretations of both singers and dancers.
Singers:
- Manama / First Man: Joshua Cadeliña, alternating with Adonis Villanueva
- Ogassi: Almond Bolante, sharing the role with Greg De Leon
- First Woman: Christy Lagapa, alternating with Toni Carm Santos
- Chorus: UP Concert Chorus
Dancers:
- Manama: John Ababon, alternating with Renzen Arboleda
- Ogassi: Earl John Arisola, sharing the role with Erl Sorilla
- First Man: Renzen Arboleda and James Galarpe
- First Woman: Krislynne Buri and Francine Beltran
Performance, cast schedule & ticketing
| Date & Time | Manama | Ogassi | First Man | First Woman |
| March 28, 7:30 PM (Gala Night) | Singer: Joshua Cadeliña / Dancer: Renzen Arboleda | Singer: Almond Bolante / Dancer: EJ Arisola | Singer: Adonis Villanueva / Dancer: James Galarpe | Singer: Christy Lagapa / Dancer: Krislynne Buri |
| March 29, 2:00 PM | Singer: Adonis Villanueva / Dancer: John Ababon | Singer: Greg de Leon / Dancer: Erl Sorilla | Singer: Joshua Cadeliña / Dancer: Renzen Arboleda | Singer: Toni Carm Santos / Dancer: Francine Beltran |
| March 29, 6:00 PM | Singer: Joshua Cadeliña / Dancer: Renzen Arboleda | Singer: Almond Bolante / Dancer: Erl Sorilla | Singer: Adonis Villanueva / Dancer: James Galarpe | Singer: Christy Lagapa / Dancer: Krislynne Buri |
Supporting artists and the community
All proceeds from ticket sales will cover production expenses and provide essential financial support to ARDP dancers, musicians, and the artists involved in bringing this epic production to life. By purchasing tickets, patrons directly contribute to sustaining the legacy of Filipino dance and supporting the livelihoods of dedicated performing artists.
March 28 – Fundraising Gala (7:30 PM)
Gala tickets are a direct investment in the future of ARDP:
- Orchestra Center: 5,000 PHP
- Orchestra Side: 4,000 PHP
- Dress Circle: 2,500 PHP
For Gala tickets: contact Joey Trinidad at ticketingofficer@ardp.ph | +63 945 664 1010
March 29 – Regular Performances
- Matinee (2:00 PM):
- Orchestra Center: 2,500 PHP
- Orchestra Side: 1,800 PHP
- Dress Circle: 1,800 PHP
- Evening (6:00 PM):
- Orchestra Center: 3,000 PHP
- Orchestra Side: 2,000 PHP
- Dress Circle: 2,000 PHP
Early Bird Offer: 10% OFF until March 6
Discounts: PWD (20%), Senior Citizen (20%), Student (50%)
Join the Priority List for early access: Reserve Here
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