“Tales of the Manuvu,” the first Filipino rock opera ballet that weaves indigenous mythology with rock and pop music, will begin the 2026 season of Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) with performances at the University Theater, UP Diliman, on Feb. 27–28 and a limited run at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati, on March 28–29.
The production is presented by ARDP in collaboration with the University of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, with the support of the Office of Sen. Pia Cayetano.
Premiered in 1977, the rock opera ballet is the result of the creative synergy of esteemed Filipino artists. National Artist Alice Reyes provided the visionary direction and choreography, and National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera wrote the libretto. The music was 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, Hajji Alejandro, and Celeste Legaspi, and the debut of Leah Navarro.
Reflecting on the production’s origins, 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 Feb. 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” is making a comeback.
“Although dance is about change and movement, ARDP puts value and currency in proven works,” says Reyes. “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.”
New set and costume designs
The 2026 production restaged by ARDP ballet master Lester Reguindin features new set and costume designs by award-winning director and designer Loy Arcenas, and lighting design by Barbara Tan-Tiongco.
A powerhouse ensemble of singers and dancers continues the tradition of live vocalists and a rock band alongside technical brilliance. With a rotating cast, the production offers a unique experience at every performance.
Here are the singers:
● Manama/First Man. Joshua Cadeliña, alternating with Adonis Villanueva.
● Ogassi. Almond Bolante, alternating with Greg de Leon.
● First Woman. Christy Lagapa, alternating with Toni Carm Santos.
And the dancers:
● Manama. John Ababon, alternating with Renzen Arboleda.
● Ogassi. Earl John Arisola, alternating with Erl Sorilla.
● First Man. Renzen Arboleda and James Galarpe.
● First Woman. Krislynne Buri and Francine Beltran.
The UP Diliman leg of the tour offers free admission— courtesy of a creative grant by UP president Angelo Jimenez—on a first come, first served basis. Registration is required via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tales-of-the-manuvu-tickets.
All proceeds from ticket sales for the performances at Proscenium will cover production expenses and provide essential financial support to ARDP dancers, musicians, and the artists involved in the production. By purchasing tickets, patrons directly contribute to sustaining the legacy of Filipino dance and supporting the livelihoods of dedicated performing artists.
Ticket purchases for the March 28 gala night performance will serve as a direct investment in the future of ARDP. (For fundraising gala tickets, contact Joey Trinidad: ticketingofficer@ardp.ph | +63 945 664 1010.)
To secure early access and the best available seats, click here to reserve: https://bit.ly/4rJIznA.
ARDP is a premier dance company dedicated to the preservation of Filipino dance heritage and the promotion of contemporary excellence. By maintaining a repertoire of both classical and modern masterpieces, ARDP ensures that Filipino artistry remains a vital part of the national consciousness.—CONTRIBUTED
