IdeaFirst Live unveils new season of original Filipino theater

IdeaFirst Live will stage three original Filipino theater productions in its 2027–28 season, featuring acclaimed performers and creative teams in new interpretations of cultural references and creative storytelling.

The theater arm of The IdeaFirst Company unveiled its lineup on Oct. 25, naming Die Beautiful: The Musical, Victorina and Teorya ng Mga Tanong as its featured productions.

Opening in June 2027 at the Proscenium Theater, Die Beautiful: The Musical will reimagine the internationally acclaimed film through a production centered on beauty, identity, resilience and chosen family.

Directed by Tuxqs Rutaquio, the musical features a new book and lyrics co-written by Jun Robles Lana and Elmer Gatchalian. Its cast includes Audie Gemora, Karylle, Esang de Torres, Maxie Andreison, Viñas Deluxe, Lance Reblando and Chamyto.

In October 2027, Eugene Domingo will star in Victorina, a comedy written by Mr. Lana and directed by Chris Martinez.

Inspired by Doña Victorina, the social climber in Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, the play will revisit the literary character as she challenges social conventions and attempts to rewrite history on her own terms.

Scheduled for March 2028, Teorya ng Mga Tanong will reunite Romnick Sarmenta, Elijah Canlas and Epy Quizon following their successful performances in the stage adaptation of About Us But Not About Us.

Written by Mr. Lana and directed by Mr. Rutaquio, the play will feature a meta-theatrical premise in which the three actors step into the novel their characters once debated. The production will further explore the boundaries between fiction and reality through this unconventional narrative.

Beyond the three shows, IdeaFirst Live announced a fourth original production in development. The company has yet to disclose its title, cast, creative team or schedule, but described the project as an “unconventional theatrical experience.”

Alongside the season announcement, the company launched THE FIRST LIST, a membership program offering priority ticket booking, special invitations and other privileges.

Registration opened at the announcement venue and through The IdeaFirst Company’s website. —Mhicole A. Moral