PETA’s Walang Aray Musical Cast Recording Now Available on Spotify!

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) is proud to announce that the Official Cast Recording of the hit musical Walang Aray, is now available for streaming on Spotify. This monumental release has been expertly crafted in partnership with one of the country’s premier full-service audio production houses, Soundesign Manila.

Rody Vera’s Walang Aray is a contemporary adaptation of Severino Reyes’ classic zarzuela Walang Sugat, returning with sharper satire, deeper emotional stakes, and bold new interpretations. Blending humor, romance, and political commentary, Walang Aray continues to resonate with audiences as it explores the intersection of love and resistance. As the flagship production of PETA’s 58th season, themed Love and Power, this restaging features a more comedic, more subversive, and bolder and biting Walang Aray while retaining its heartwarming core.

The cast recording’s release allows Pinoy theater fans to relive the show’s infectious musical catalog any time, anywhere. The original cast recording will feature popular tracks composed by award-winning composer and musical director Vince Lim, such as “Pangako 'Yan,” “Luv U 4 Ever,” “Tipo Kong Lalaki,” “Walang Aray Finale,” “Huwag Mo Akong Saktan,” “Front Act,” and a newly released song, “Tumindig at Lumaban” mashed up with the rousing Act 1 ender, “Bayan Ko.” 

This recording also marks a proud collaboration with Soundesign Manila. The company is celebrated for its comprehensive services, including sound design, engineering, composition, arrangement, voice casting, and soundtrack production across multiple musical genres. Since 1997, Soundesign Manila has been at the forefront of audio production in the Philippines, collaborating with top-tier clients in advertising, media, and entertainment. Their award-winning work consistently sets the standard for sonic storytelling and innovation. Their creative vision and technical mastery were integral in capturing Walang Aray’s vibrant musicality for this recording.

“At Soundesign Manila, we believe in the transformative power of music and sound. Walang Aray’s cast recording was a way for us to support the arts and the art of doing original music for theater,” said Raul Blay, Soundesign Manila’s President and Founder.

Stream the Walang Aray Official Cast Recording via Spotify by searching “Walang Aray Cast Recording,” or follow the direct link, bit.ly/WA2025CastRecording.   Walang Aray runs from August 28 to October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater. For more show information, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater.  Tickets are available via ticket2me.net.

AWARD-WINNING FILIPINO MUSICAL ‘WALANG ARAY’ RETURNS WITH REFRESHED STAGING AND AN EXCITING CAST LINEUP

QUEZON CITY, Philippines—Tumindig at Umibig…PA MORE! Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) brings back Rody Vera’s award-winning hit comedy musical, Walang Aray, a witty and hilarious reimagining of Severino Reyes’ classic zarzuela Walang Sugat, from August 29 to October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater Center.

Walang Aray had a total of 58 shows in 2023 alone, having staged two runs in just one year due to insistent public demand. The musical also dominated the 2024 Gawad Buhay Awards, winning eight major awards, including Outstanding Musical, Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Musical, Outstanding Stage Direction for a Musical (Ian Segarra), Outstanding Book of a Musical (Rody Vera), Outstanding Original Score (Vince Lim and Rody Vera), and Outstanding Choreography (Gio Gahol). Walang Aray also bagged the major awards in the female performance categories, with Neomi Gonzales winning the Female Featured Performance in a Musical award and Shaira Opsimar taking home the Female Lead Performance in a Musical.

The rerun is a fitting kick-off for PETA’s 58th theater season with its theme of Love and Power. Coming back with a sharper text and refreshed staging, Director Ian Segarra, now joined by Associate Director Norbs Portales, breathes new life into the beloved musical without taking away any of its original appeal.  

Rody Vera’s script will continue to underscore the play’s messages of resistance and romance while being enhanced with updated contemporary references. Vince Lim, who grabbed Gawad Buhay for Outstanding Original Score, adds a playful new song to Walang Aray’s infectious pop musical catalog. 

The refreshed edition of Walang Aray also features an exciting lineup of new cast members among its original award-winning lead cast. Gio Gahol and Jon Abella return as Tenyong, with Shaira Opsimar and Marynor Madamesila reprising their role as Julia. One of the fresh faces joining the cast is triple-threat artist Lance Reblando, who debuts as the feisty and endearing zarzuela star Julia.

They are joined by original cast members Bene Manaois (Miguel), Kiki Baento (Monica), Carlon Matobato (Lucas), Neomi Gonzales (Juana), Gie Onida and Csairus Habla (Don Tadeo), Johnnie Moran (Padre Alfaro), and the quick-witted and sharp supporting cast, Jarred Jaicten, Gerard Dy, Yeyin de la Cruz, Ayla Garcia, and Ada Tayao.

Walang Aray also welcomes a powerhouse roster of new cast members, which includes theater favorites and triple-threat performers: Rendell Sanchez (Miguel), Divine Aucina (Monica), Gold Villar-Lim (Juana), and Roi Calilong (Padre Alfaro). Also joining the cast as ensemble members are James Lanante, MC Dela Cruz, Bomba Ding, Otep Madriaga, Miah Canton, Matel Patayon, and Zoe Damag.

Two Philippine pop culture icons, Jolina Magdangal and Ice Seguerra, add more excitement to the already outstanding cast lineup. Magdangal joins the cast as the quirky and over-the-top Doña Juana, while Seguerra plays the loyal and playful sidekick of Tenyong, Lucas.

Tickets for the show will be available starting June 28 via ticket2me.net.

An exclusive and discounted pre-sale for Metrobank credit cardholders will run from June 28 until July 1, 2025. The public sale starts on July 2, 2025. Ticket prices are as follows: P2,500 (VIP Front and VIP Elevated), P2,000 (Orchestra Center and Balcony Center), P1,500 (Orchestra Side), and P1,200 (Balcony Side).

Walang Aray is produced by PETA in partnership with Indie.Go Media, together with Metrobank. 

For partnerships and show-buying inquiries, contact Mitch Go at 0917-539-1112 or email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com. For more information about Walang Aray, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater.

PILATO - a new musical, takes stage this April at PETA

ANO BA ANG KATOTOHANAN: An all-original Filipino musical all set to unveil a new perspective on the greatest story ever told

In an era where misinformation spreads faster than light and truth seems to wear many faces, the question asked over 2,000 years ago by one of the most divisive persons in history still reverberates with haunting relevance: “Ano ba ang katotohanan?” This serves as the heartbeat of Pilato, an all-original Filipino musical set to captivate audiences this April at the PETA Theater Center.

With its daring perspective and poignant relevance, the production revisits the so-called “greatest story ever told”--the trial and crucifixion of Jesus Christ--through the eyes of Pontius Pilate, a man caught at the crossroads of power, faith, and duty.

The musical traces Pilato’s journey from his early ambitions in Rome to his appointment as prefect of Judea, a province brimming with religious and political unrest. There, Pilato’s every decision is scrutinized by a constellation of figures: the enigmatic historiographer, Josepo; the calculating high priest, Caiaphas; his wise and foreboding wife, Procla; and Hesus, a mysterious and magnetic presence rumored to be the King of the Jews.

In a time when Holy Week invites reflection and as the country approaches the critical 2025 elections, Pilato emerges as a vital meditation on truth in all its complexity.

Through haunting melodies and powerful storytelling, it challenges us to confront the choices we make as individuals and as a society.

“Information comes to us in countless forms and modes. But how do we sift through the chaos to uncover the truth? Would we even recognize the truth if we meet it face-to-face?” shares writer-director Eldrin Veloso. “Essentially, that is what the play hopes to put out there--a journey that dares to unravel the mystery of truth’s many faces. With our society on the brink of a post-truth era, I believe this is a story that demands to be told, now more than ever.”

With a cast of seasoned musical theater artists and gifted newcomers, Pilato offers an emotional and intellectual journey unlike any other. It is a poignant reminder that even after two millennia, the search for truth remains both our greatest burden and our ultimate salvation.

This marks the inaugural theatrical venture of The Corner Studio, a creative agency renowned for weaving compelling narratives through its expertise in branding, production, marketing, and design. Now, it steps boldly onto the stage, bringing its storytelling vision to life in a new dimension.

Don’t miss Pilato on April 4 at 8pm for its world premiere and on April 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13 at 3pm and 8pm, at the PETA Theater Center.

Tickets are now available at pilato.helixpay.com.

Metrobank offers ‘One More Chance, The Musical’ Exclusive Pre-sale Tickets

 If you are a Metrobank Credit Cardholder, you could be one of the first to purchase tickets to PETA’s buzzworthy show, “One More Chance, the Musical." 

Manila, Philippines — Get ready to feel all the feels again! PETA’s “One More Chance, the Musical,” an adaptation of Star Cinema’s cult classic movie featuring the songs of the country’s most sought-after nine-piece band, Ben&Ben, is opening ticket sales next month.

Excitement is building up fast for “One More Chance, The Musical” as theater fans eagerly wait for the opening of ticket sales. Buyers are already flexing their muscles, getting ready to grab hold of tickets as soon as they drop!

Metrobank, co-presenter and official pre-sale partner of the musical brings an exclusive pre-sale treat for their credit cardholders as they get first access to the tickets from February 6–8, 2024, via TicketWorld.com.ph.

“One More Chance, The Musical” has already made waves, breaking headlines and trending on social media, since its epic announcement with Ben&Ben’s surprise appearance after the curtain call of "Walang Aray" in October.

PETA is already anticipating a huge influx of ticket sales based on the raves and overwhelmingly positive reactions of audiences.

“We are absolutely thrilled to finally open the ticket sales to the public. There’s been a huge outpour of support and clamor for tickets since our announcement last year. We are grateful and proud to be able to produce another Filipino theater production that showcases the best of theater, music, and film," shares PETA Executive Director Beng Cabangon. 

 “We are also happy to welcome our partner, Metrobank, a company whose mission includes fostering Filipino artistry and creative excellence. Together, we hope we can help build and expand the growing theater audience and draw more appreciation for theater and the arts! "Cabangon enthused.

“Our collaboration with PETA for One More Chance, The Musical is one of the many ways we want to show our support to the local art and theater scene,” said Gail Male, SVP and Head of Credit Cards, Personal Loans and Digital Channels Group at Metrobank. “With this initiative, we’re encouraging our customers to take part in uplifting and celebrating vibrant and world-class Filipino talent."

To join the pre-sale, Metrobank credit cardholders must enter the first six digits of their card as the passcode. Each cardholder can enjoy a maximum of four (4) tickets per transaction.

Non-card holders can still apply and enjoy this exclusive promo by going to any Metrobank branch and applying for a credit card before the pre-sale. 

Ticket Prices

PETA’s intimate Blackbox, the PETA-Phinma Theater, offers up-close seating of 400 seats per show. Tickets prices are: P3000 for VIP, P2500 for Orchestra and Balcony Center, P2200 for Orchestra Side, and P1500 for Balcony Side seats.

About One More Chance

“One More Chance, the Musical,” which tells the story of longtime couple Popoy and Basha, is an adaptation of Star Cinema’s “One More Chance,” starring John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo.

PETA’s musical adaptation not only brings the iconic love story to life but also creates a more nuanced and expanded experience for audiences, thanks to Ben&Ben's poetic, emotionally charged, and LSS-inducing songs. The musical includes the band’s smash hits “Kathang Isip,” “Araw-Araw,” “Leaves,” and “Paninidigan Kita,” to name a few.

The show is slated to have a total of 50 shows at the PETA Theater Center in New Manila, Quezon City, from April 12–June 16, 2024.

For more information, follow PETA's social media accounts at @petatheater (Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok). For corporate partnerships, contact PETA’s Marketing and Public Relations Office at 0917-5765400 or petatheater@gmail.com.

CONTROL + SHIFT : Changing Narratives PETA’s Bold Collection of New Theater Performances

QUEZON CITY, Philippines –  With an unwavering commitment to empowering and enriching society, PETA continues to push boundaries and explore new frontiers in the realm of socially relevant theater. PETA welcomes 2024 with a bold collection of new theater performances that puts the spotlight on the theme of narrative change with CONTROL + SHIFT : Changing Narratives, Reclaiming and Reshaping Stories of the Filipino People. 

PETA artists, together with creative partners and collaborators, have created fresh works that hope to provoke curiosity, spark conversations, challenge assumptions, interrogate, and transform the toxic narratives and harmful depictions that hold society back. 

CONTROL + SHIFT : Changing Narratives features eight new works, devised performances, and the re-staging of KUMPRONTASYON at the PETA Theater Center from January 12-14, 19-21, 2024. 

The line-up includes:

• Zoe Damag, Julia Enriquez, Pia Viola, and Gold Villar-Lim’s “Momsilogues,” directed by Gold Villar-Lim. Single mom foodie vloggers collaborate on an interactive vlog about tapsilog, uncovering a savory journey of career, love, and motherhood.

• Sabrina Basillo’s “Ang Mga Halimaw sa Compound Z,” directed by Norbs Portales. A journalist interviews two recovering “halimaw” about their reintegration into society and discovers a shocking revelation that could alter humanity's destiny forever. This play explores the construction of monster myths and their impact on young Filipinos' mental and social well-being.

• “Albularyo,” direction, concept, and choreography by Carlon Matobato, dramaturgy by Ian Segarra. A movement performance that journeys into the world of Filipino folk healing of the ills of our body and our nation.

• Mixkaela Villalon’s “Children of the Algo,” directed by John Moran. Gen Z content creators hide their deeper realities while navigating the digital age with wit and vulnerability, challenging viewers to see beyond the algorithm.

• Dominique La Victoria’s “Kislap at Fuego,” directed by Maribel Legarda and J-mee Katanyag, Filipino translation by Gentle Mapagu. An unexpected fairytale between a Kapre and a country girl, set amidst the Philippine Revolution against Spain. This play explores how to reshape the way we talk about love, rebirth, and revolution.

• Liza Magtoto’s “/” (Slash), directed by Meann Espinosa. When an influencer’s best friend is “canceled,” her seemingly neutral stance is put to a test. As these two friends grapple with the idea of re-entering the industry, Xendy (the influencer) tries to balance loyalty, righteousness and branding.

• “Ang Parangal," direction & concept by Eric dela Cruz, adaptation & co-conceptualized with Michelle Ngu-Nario. In this adaptation of Miloš Forman’s 1967 comedy film, The Fireman’s Ball, a group of barangay tanod organizes a community celebration in tribute for their retired barangay captain but crumbles in the face of their dire ineptitude. Spectacles and good intentions are not enough to make up for incompetence in governance.

• Glecy Atienza’s “Nakatala Sa Tubig” (Staged Reading), in collaboration with Anthony Cruz & Bobet Mendoza. A performance discourse on water and the lives and roles of women in times of war.

• Kyle Saldonido’s “Pilipinas, Geym Ka Na Ba?” a devised performance by Umalohokan, Inc., directed by Kovi Billones with directing guidance from Ian Segarra. The residents of Barangay Pinapili woke up in an obscure playground. To leave, they must beat a series of childhood games, each with a dark twist.

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• Melvin Lee’s “KUMPRONTASYON” This production, which boasts three plays: Allan Palileo’s “Lakambini,” Guelan Luarca’s “The Impossible Dream,” and Joshua Lim So’s “A Color for Tomorrow,” uses theater as a platform for difficult but necessary conversations on unresolved historical and political events. 

These shows hope to use the power of theater as a platform to reclaim spaces for collective meaning-making and social transformation. After all, changing the world can all begin with experimenting with a story, a frame, a narrative.

PETA invites everyone to join and watch these empowering stories come to life! For more information and ticket reservations, go to tinyurl.com/PETAControlShift.

PETA’s “One More Chance the Musical” featuring the music of Ben&Ben coming in 2024

On Sunday evening, after the closing performance of “Walang Aray,” the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) shocked audiences with a surprise performance of Ben&Ben, unveiling the company’s upcoming production, “One More Chance the Musical,” an adaptation of Star Cinema’s cult classic that will feature the music of the massively popular and award-winning Filipino nine-piece band.

The crowd erupted in cheers after lead cast members of “Walang Aray,” Gio Gahol and Marynor Madamesila, who play the lovers Tenyong and Julia, performed a scene from the movie as Popoy and Basha. The iconic lines, “She had me at my worst. You had me at my best” was enough to give clues to PETA’s next production.



The announcement was topped by another jaw-dropping surprise as the set curtains parted, revealing the Ben&Ben band. The audience went wild with their electric performance and sang along with the band’s hit songs, Kathang Isip and Araw-Araw, two of their heartfelt anthems that have defined an entire generation.

In the prime of their youth, the band has maintained a level of cultural relevance that earned its place in the history of contemporary Philippine music. For three years, Ben&Ben has emerged as the most streamed OPM Artist and Group in the Philippines, being the first Filipino act to surpass more than a billion streams.

“One More Chance the Musical” follows PETA’s string of successful jukebox musicals, from the phenomenal hit “Rak of Aegis,” which ran for seven seasons, to the critically acclaimed rap musical “Three Stars and a Sun,” featuring the music of Francis Magalona.

“One More Chance the Musical” is slated to open in April 2024 at the PETA Theater Center.