Experience the First Filipino Rock Opera Ballet with Tales of the Manuvu Returning to the Stage
February 24, 2026
MANILA - Nearly five decades after it first transformed the Philippine performing arts landscape, Tales of the Manuvu returns in 2026—restaged by Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (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 support from the Office of Senator Pia Cayetano.
Premiered in 1977, Tales of the Manuvu holds a singular place in Philippine cultural history as the country’s first rock opera ballet, with a fusion of indigenous mythology, contemporary music, and modern dance vocabulary.
A Historic Collaboration of National Artists
The original production was born from the creative partnership of National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes and National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera. Inspired by the folk narratives documented by E. Arsenio Manuel, Lumbera crafted the libretto, while Reyes shaped the choreography and overall artistic direction.
The music—integral to the work’s revolutionary identity—was composed by OPM icon Dero Pedero, with additional music by the rock band Afterbirth. The 1977 staging featured prominent performers from the Philippine music and theater scene, including Boy Camara, Anthony Castelo, Haji Alejandro, Celeste Legaspi, and introduced a then-new talent, Leah Navarro.
Reflecting on the work’s beginnings, Reyes recalls how the concept of a rock-opera ballet was still in its infancy locally. When it opened at the CCP in February 1977, it did so to a packed house—establishing itself as a landmark production that expanded the parameters of Filipino dance theater.
Forty-nine years later, the work returns not merely as nostalgia, but as reaffirmation: that Filipino myth, music, and movement remain potent vehicles for national reflection.
The 2026 Restaging
The 2026 production is restaged by ARDP Ballet Master Lester Reguindin. This iteration introduces new visual dimensions, with set and costume design by acclaimed director and designer Loy Arcenas, and lighting design by Barbara Tan-Tiongco.
True to its original format, the production continues the rare and demanding structure of live vocalists performing alongside a rock band, integrated with a full dance ensemble. The rotating cast ensures that each performance offers a distinct interpretation—both vocally and physically.
A Stellar Ensemble of Singers and Dancers
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
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
By sustaining the dual tradition of live singers and dancers sharing narrative space, the production preserves the structural integrity of Reyes’ original vision.
The 2026 season begins at the University Theater in UP Diliman on February 27–28. Admission for the UP leg is free on a first come first serve basis, with registration required (currently, registration is now closed).
These performances are made possible through a creative grant from UP President Angelo Jimenez.
The production then moves to the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati, for a strictly limited run on March 28–29.
The March 28 Gala Night serves as a fundraising performance, directly supporting ARDP dancers and the preservation of major Filipino dance works.
Join the Priority List today to secure early access and the best available seats.
Click here to reserve https://bit.ly/4rJIznA.
Early bird discounts are available for a limited time. Standard discounts apply for PWDs, senior citizens, and students.
Proceeds from ticket sales will cover production expenses and provide financial support to ARDP’s dancers, musicians, and collaborating artists.
Photos courtesy of ARDP by Erica Jacinto.
Ejay Arisola as Ogassi