Acclaimed musical theatre actress Gab Pangilinan has been cast as Gabriela Silang in Barefoot Theatre Collaborative's newest original production, Gabriela: The Musical, set to premiere this November.

Running from November 13, 2026 at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Quezon City, the musical reimagines the story of the Philippines' first Filipina revolutionary through a sweeping narrative of myth, magic, and mystery.

Rather than beginning after the death of Diego Silang, the production envisions Gabriela as an active force from the earliest days of the revolution. As she reconnects with her Itneg roots, Gabriela journeys between worlds, becoming both a battleground and a bridge in a story that explores love, grief, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom.

Pangilinan, whose recent stage credits include Jesus Christ Superstar as Mary Magdalene and the beloved role of Roxane in Mula Sa Buwan, described portraying Gabriela Silang as both an honor and a responsibility.

"It's no secret that Gabriela Silang is a revolutionary heroine of the Philippines... Isang malaking karangalan (at responsibilidad) ang gumanap bilang Gabriela Silang," Pangilinan shared. "Immensely grateful for this opportunity to originate a new role and I promise to take care of her."

The production reunites several of Philippine theatre's acclaimed creatives. Pat Valera, whose original Filipino musicals include Mula Sa Buwan, Bar Boys: The Musical, and Dekada '70, penned the book after spending more than five years researching Gabriela Silang's life.

Instead of retelling familiar history, Valera poses new questions about Gabriela's role in the revolution, imagining her as a woman whose leadership and vision helped shape the beginnings of a nation.

Bringing the story to life is director Mikko Angeles, who previously collaborated with Valera on Bar Boys: The Musical, with original music by Myke Salomon.

Angeles said the production seeks to move beyond the historical figure audiences know, exploring Gabriela through "myth, magic, and mystery" while honoring the culture and history surrounding her story.

Produced by Barefoot Theatre Collaborative, Gabriela: The Musical begins performances on November 13, 2026, at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Quezon City.

Opening weekend tickets are now available via bit.ly/gabrielatickets. Audience members who purchase tickets between July 13 and August 17, 2026 will receive a complimentary souvenir program as an early-bird keepsake.

Additional casting and production details will soon be announced.

Poster courtesy of BTC.