‘Tales of the Manuvu’ Rock Opera Ballet Returns to the Stage Starting this February

‘Tales of the Manuvu’ Rock Opera Ballet Returns to the Stage Starting this February

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, is set to restage Tales of the Manuvu starting this February.

This production, which premiered in 1977, is the first Filipino rock opera ballet, blending indigenous mythology with rock and pop music.

The company’s 2026 season begins with performances at the University Theater, UP Diliman, on February 27–28, followed by a strictly limited run at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati, on March 28–29.

Tales of the Manuvu was choreographed and directed by National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes, with National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera writing the libretto. The music was composed by 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, Haji Alejandro, Celeste Legaspi, and the debut of newfound talent, Leah Navarro.

Reflecting on the production’s origins, 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 February 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 makes a strong comeback… Although dance is about change and movement, ARDP puts value and currency in proven works. 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.”

The 2026 production is restaged by ARDP Ballet Master Lester Reguindin. This iteration features new musical arrangements by Michael Mark Guevarra, set and costume designs by director and designer Loy Arcenas, and lighting design by Barbara Tan-Tiongco.

Voices and Bodies of Manuvu

The production features an ensemble of singers and dancers. With a rotating cast, audiences are invited to catch the different artistic interpretations of both the singers and dancers.

Joshua Cadeliña will be singing the role of Manama/ First Man, alternating with Ado Villanueva. Dancing the part of Manama is John Ababon, alternating with Renzen Arboleda. Dancing the part of First Man are Renzen Arboleda and James Galarpe.

Almond Bolante shares the role of Ogassi with Greg De Leon. Dancing the part is Earl John Arisola, who shares the role with Erl Sorilla.

Christy Lagapa alternates with Toni Carm Santos to sing the role of First Woman. Dancing the part is Krislynne Buri.

All proceeds from ticket sales will cover production expenses and provide essential financial support to ARDP dancers, musicians, and the artists involved in bringing this production to life. 

To ensure the arts remain accessible, the UP Diliman leg of the tour offers free admission on a first-come, first-served basis.

University Theater, UP Diliman

Admission is FREE but registration is required. Register via Eventbrite.

Following its UP performances—made possible by a creative grant from UP President Angelo Jimenez—the production moves to the Proscenium Theater in Makati for a strictly limited run on March 28–29.

Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Makati

March 28 – Fundraising Gala (7:30 PM) A Gala ticket is a direct investment in the future of ARDP, providing vital support for their dancers and the preservation of the works of National Artists like Alice Reyes and Agnes Locsin.

• Orchestra Center: 5,000
• Orchestra Side: 4,000
• Dress Circle: 2,500
• For Fundraising Gala Tickets, contact Joey Trinidad at [email protected] / +63 945 664 1010.

March 29 – Regular Performances

Matinee (2:00 PM): 

• Orchestra Center: 2,500
• Orchestra Side: 1,800
• Dress Circle: 1,800

Evening (6:00 PM):

• Orchestra Center: 3,000
• Orchestra Side: 2,000
• Dress Circle: 2,000

Early Bird Offer: 10% OFF for a limited time.
Discounts: PWD (20%), Senior Citizen (20%), and Student (50%) discounts apply.

Tickets can be reserved through the group’s Google Form.

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (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 vibrant part of the national consciousness.