When the city lights dim and the first chord plays, something magical happens in theaters: stories unfold, emotions rise, and audiences connect. As the year comes to a close, we've listed the spectacular lineup of must-watch musicals in Manila this season.
From Newport Performing Arts Theater to Circuit Makati, the local arts theater scene is booming with shows that remind us why we love live performance. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or a curious first timer, there’s a seat waiting for you and maybe, a story that mirrors your own.
1. Shrek The Musical
Venue: Newport Performing Arts Theater, Pasay City
Run: October to December 2025
Everyone’s favorite green ogre is taking over the stage! Shrek The Musical PH, based on William Steig’s book and the DreamWorks hit of the same name, will run at Newport World Resorts, home to the most anticipated NWR musicals. Directed by Michael Williams, with assistant direction by Cara Barredo and choreography by Stephen Viñas, it features a powerhouse cast of local talents and music direction by Rony Fortich.
You do not have to be kids anymore to expect laughter, love, and a swamp full of iconic songs that celebrate friendship, individuality, and big dreams. From Princess Fiona to Lord Farquaad, every character bursts to life in this colorful stage production that’s as heartwarming as it is hilarious.
It’s perfect for young audiences, families, and anyone who believes that happily-ever-after comes in all shapes and sizes. Newport Performing Arts Theater once again proves it’s a home for world-class performing arts theater experiences in Manila.
2. The Bodyguard: The Musical
Venue: Proscenium Theater, Makati City
Run: September to October 2025
Making its Manila debut at the brand-new Proscenium Theater, The Bodyguard: The Musical by 9 Works Theatrical marks a grand opening that’s as dramatic as the show itself. Based on the 1992 film starring Whitney Houston, the production follows music superstar Rachel Marron and her protector as they navigate fame, fear, and forbidden love.
Directed by Robbie Guevara with music direction by Daniel Bartolome, the show delivers emotional punches through Houston’s timeless hits that bleed nostalgia and emotional depth in every note.
It’s a modern musical about love under pressure, beautifully staged in Makati City’s emerging cultural hub. The performances, costumes, and live orchestra make this a must-see for both die-hard fans and those exploring Philippine theater for the first time.
3. Pingkian: Isang Musikal
Venue: PETA Theater Center, Quezon City
Run: September to October 2025
From Broadway-style spectacle to historical drama, Barefoot Theatre Collaborative brings back Pingkian: Isang Musikal—a Philippine theater masterpiece about Emilio Jacinto, the “Brains of the Katipunan.” Following its award-winning musical run last year, this production returns to the PETA Theater Center with renewed fire.
Told through poetic flashbacks, Pingkian captures Jacinto’s inner struggles as he fights for independence while facing betrayal and loss. The show portrays both his long marriage to the revolution and his emotional unraveling in the face of war.
With powerful songs, stunning visuals, and performances that honor national heroes, it’s a moving reminder of courage and conviction as these themes continue to inspire audiences.
4. Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular
Venue: The Theatre at Solaire, Parañaque City
Run: January to March 2026
GMG Productions presents Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular, an international triumph that’s extending its Manila run by popular demand. This production, by Cameron Mackintosh in partnership with Nick Grace Management, is one of the most anticipated theater shows of the year.
Audiences have been captivated by its sweeping story of love, faith, and revolution, and it has established itself as a musical that transcends generations. As Jean Valjean’s journey unfolds, the cast members deliver performances of raw emotional depth, reminding us of the timeless power of forgiveness and hope.
With its theatre group Asia collaboration and world-class staging, The Theatre at Solaire continues to be a favorite among Manila’s art-loving community. It’s the perfect way to start 2026 with passion, purpose, and music that stirs the soul.
5. Spring Awakening
Venue: The Black Box, Proscenium Theater, Makati City
Run: February 2026
For those who crave stories about growing up and finding their voice, Spring Awakening by The Sandbox Collective will be your next obsession. This Tony-winning musical explores adolescence, curiosity, and rebellion through the eyes of German teenagers discovering life’s complexities.
Directed by Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan with music direction by Ejay Yatco, the production opens The Proscenium’s newest corner studio, the Black Box, in 2026. The rock-inspired score by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater reflects the confusion, repression, and awakening of youth, which are themes that continue to resonate with audiences dealing with mental health and social pressure.
Raw, powerful, and deeply human, this stage performance connects across generations, encouraging everyone to embrace growth, mistakes, and authenticity.
Other events to look out for
Even beyond these major runs, the Manila theater scene keeps audiences thrilled with new concepts, revivals, and celebrations of creativity.
Musical Theatre Rave by StageDoor (October 24–25, 2025)
Hosted at the Globe Auditorium, Maybank Performing Arts Theater, BGC, this interactive event invites fans to sing along to showtunes, dance to iconic songs, and celebrate the joy of musical theater.
Past favorites that may make a return
Manila’s most beloved productions often find their way back to the spotlight.
Liwanag sa Dilim
A production featuring the music of Rico Blanco captured hearts with its powerful storytelling and local spirit, and its comeback will surely have fans excited.
Into the Woods
Staged at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati, brought together multiple fairy tales and hard truths. Overall, it's a revival that theater lovers are hoping for.
Dear Evan Hansen
The global hit tackling social anxiety and loneliness, recently moved audiences to tears during its Manila run at The Theater at Solaire. With themes that deeply affect today’s youth, another run would surely be welcomed with open arms.
Upcoming whispers
Expect new projects from House Theater Company and Full House Theater Company, as well as 10 Things I Hate About You: The Musical and Side Show in development for the next theater season.
Live close to the stage
The rise of world-class venues like the CPR Auditorium at the RCBC Plaza, Samsung Performing Arts Theater, and Hyundai Hall proves that Manila’s performing arts theater landscape is thriving. For city dwellers, living near these cultural hubs is both convenient and inspiring.
Those living in neighborhoods close to Circuit Makati, Rockwell, or Quezon City can easily immerse themselves in artistic weekends. Imagine watching local favorites like Para Kay B at the House Theater Company one night, or catching Sa Dilim by Barefoot Theatre Collaborative the next.
For many residents, the theater becomes more than an occasional outing. It’s part of their life journey that mirrors personal experiences, whether that’s balancing law school pressures like in Bar Boys, or finding hope after heartbreak like in Dear Evan Hansen.
In every song, every story, Manila’s vibrant theatre scene reminds us that we’re all characters in our own unfolding production.
The stage is set for you in Vista Residences.
From Alice in Wonderland’s whimsical world to Liwanag sa Dilim’s inspiring messages, every curtain call in Manila this season tells a story worth watching. These performances show that Philippine theater is alive, inclusive, and thriving.
Live where creativity meets convenience. Discover Vista Residences’ stylish condominiums across Metro Manila that are perfectly located near theaters, cafes, and art venues, so you’re always just steps from the spotlight.
