August 13, 2025 – Since its curtain rose on August 7, Theater Group Asia’s (TGA) dazzling production of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods has been captivating audiences at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater (S-PAT).
Running until August 31, the 24-performance engagement sold out in a record-breaking two hours, with overwhelming demand prompting calls for additional shows. “This only proves that theater in the Philippines is so alive!” says TGA Executive Director Christopher Mohnani. “We can’t wait to unleash the magic and share this impeccable work with everyone.”
The production boasts a dream ensemble worthy of any theater lover’s fantasy. Olivier and Tony Award-winner Lea Salonga makes her long-awaited return to the Philippine musical stage as The Witch, joined by Broadway’s Arielle Jacobs as Cinderella, comedy icon Eugene Domingo as Jack’s Mother, and international performer Josh Dela Cruz (Blue’s Clues & You!) as Prince Charming/The Wolf.
Real-life couple Nyoy Volante and Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante bring heart and humor as The Baker and The Baker’s Wife, while Nic Chien charms as Jack, Joreen Bautista enchants as Rapunzel, and Mark Bautista plays her dashing prince. Teetin Villanueva’s spirited Little Red Riding Hood, Tex Ordoñez-De Leon, Sarah Facuri, and Kakki Teodoro as Cinderella’s scheming stepfamily, Carla Guevara Laforteza as Granny/The Giant, Jamie Wilson as Cinderella’s Father/The Steward, and Rody Vera as The Narrator round out the all-star cast.
The production’s magic is matched by its powerhouse creative team. Music Director Gerard Salonga leads the orchestra, with set design by Ohm David, costumes by Raven Ong, lighting by Cha See, and sound design by Megumi Takayama. They are joined by a roster of acclaimed collaborators, from choreography and vocal coaching to puppet design by Aina Bonifacio Ramolete, executed by Teatrong Mulat ng Pilipinas.
For TGA, Into the Woods is more than just an inaugural flagship production — it’s a tribute to the late Bobby Garcia, the company’s co-founder and one of Philippine theater’s most influential voices. “We are committed to exalting Filipino artistry,” says Overall Artistic and Creative Director Clint Ramos. “TGA is a powerhouse collective of globally renowned and locally celebrated Filipino artists intent on cultivating connections and engaging with Filipino audiences. This was an earnest goal we shared with Bobby.”
Mohnani adds, “This show — along with our community initiatives like The Bobby Garcia Initiative mentoring program — is our way of honoring his legacy. We’ll continue that with A Chorus Line in March 2026.”
With support from partners including Ayala Land, BPI, Ayala Corporation, Philippine Airlines, and Custom Clubmakers, Into the Woods combines lavish design, heartfelt performances, and Sondheim’s timeless music into a world-class theater experience.
With only a few weeks left, this limited run offers a rare opportunity to see some of the Philippines’ finest talents — together with celebrated artists from around the globe — shine in one of musical theater’s most beloved works.
For details and updates, visit www.theatregroupasia.com or follow @theatregroupasia on Facebook and Instagram.
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