‘Kapeng Barako Club: Extra Strong’ Returns This November
After its June staging, Eksena PH is set to restage its interactive and immersive production, Kapeng Barako Club: Extra Strong, for a limited four-show run on November 15–16 and 22–23 at 8:00 p.m., at Café Shylo in Pasig City (located behind Estancia Mall).
Written by Juan Ekis and directed by Karl Jingco, the play transforms an actual café into its stage, blurring the lines between performer and spectator. The story follows a close-knit group of friends who gather regularly over coffee—until a wedding announcement forces them to confront buried emotions, romantic tensions, and the complexities of love.
For this re-staging, the original cast returns to reprise their roles. In celebration of the Halloween season, the show adds playful thematic touches and a few “spooky surprises,” offering audiences an extra layer of fun and intrigue.
Set inside a real café, the story centers on Massi (played alternately by Chase Salazar and Sarina Sasaki), whose wedding announcement stirs deep emotions, especially for Eric (Jhon Saint Lovino, Johnny Maglinao). The mix of relationships includes Anna (Ricci Ferrera, Vanessa Alariao) and Joel (Alon Matias, Edward Allen Solon), as well as Steff (Isabelle Prado, Isabelle Sophie Ng) and café owner-playwright Marlowe (Drei Arias, Paulito Del Mundo). Completing the cast is Sunshine (Vanessa Dulay, Alexa San Diego), the café crew member and aspiring playwright. Live acoustic music by Tristan Karl Bite and Gerard de Leon underscores the play’s emotional rhythm.
True to its immersive design, there is no stage and no separation between the audience and the actors. Viewers sit among the characters, overhearing private conversations and witnessing every confession, heartbreak, and laughter up close.
Also on the creative team with Ekis and Jingco are Paulo Almaden (sound design), Alecx Lorica (acting consultant), Tops Peñafiel (lighting design), Rolando Inocencio (creative consultant), and Gerard de Leon (original songs).
Audiences are encouraged to come in costume and enjoy Café Shylo’s signature drinks.
Tickets are ₱750 with a complimentary drink, and ₱600 for PWDs and senior citizens. Note: PWD and senior citizen discounts require a valid ID for confirmation at the Front of House. Reservations can be made through the group’s Google Form.
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