The Sandbox Collective Launches Open Mic and Masterclass Series

The Sandbox Collective Launches Open Mic and Masterclass Series

The Sandbox Collective, whose production of Spring Awakening is currently running at The Black Box in The Proscenium Theater, Rockwell, Makati, is launching two new initiatives outside the theater that hopes to double down on its community-building and arts education efforts.

Theater artist Reb Atadero, The Sandbox Collective’s new Head of Audience Development, hopes to deepen engagement through a new slate of community-building initiatives designed to bring audiences closer to the craft through Sandbox Beyond the Stage (BTS).

Through Sandbox BTS, the company will host special events such as quiz nights and open mics in partner establishments within Metro Manila.

Also joining the company is theater artist Marvin Ong, The Sandbox Collective’s new Head of Arts Education. Ong proudly launches Playground, a series of masterclasses that aim to educate, inspire, and empower artists to be the next creative forces in the theater industry. Sessions will be led by industry veterans and luminaries who have worked with the company or are currently involved in a Sandbox production.

Sandbox Beyond the Stage (BTS), led by Reb Atadero

After its first installment in early February—a quiz night—Sandbox BTS is back again, now with an open mic entitled Sing Awakening. The event will be hosted by Atadero and will feature cast members from Spring Awakening.

Atadero said Sandbox BTS events are “nerdy” but effective ways for fans to connect and build a community of theater lovers.

“I want Sandbox BTS to be a name that theater fans think about when they want to hang out and have fun with friends they’ve made watching shows or geeking out over theater,” says Atadero.

“I want it to be a hangout spot for those who live and breathe the stage and those who want an avenue to get into theatre which can sometimes be intimidating.”

Sandbox BTS: Sing Awakening Open Mic will take place on March 4, 2026 at the Sari-Sari Speakeasy Bar on Washington Street, Makati City.

Playground, led by Marvin Ong

The Sandbox Collective also introduces Playground, a professional training series designed for performers who want to sharpen their craft and show up fully prepared when opportunity arises.

The program is open to those aged 16 and up, preferably with previous professional or theater experience. The masterclass series will have a maximum of 20 slots, and applications will be accepted and screened through the website.

Marvin Ong said that the program aims to further enhance the skills of Filipino performers as it focuses on exploration, collaboration, discipline, embodiment, and courage.

“If we are to contribute to making Philippine theater an industry, we need to be able to equip more people to the standards that it demands,” says Ong. “And who better to give it than the legends, the masters, and the shapers of Philippine theater itself.”

The company also announced its lineup of instructors, which includes Audie Gemora, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Jaime Del Mundo, Ejay Yatco, and JM Cabling.

The applications for the first batch of Playground are now open, with classes beginning on March 28 and a showcase on April 18.

“You’re learning from the best of the best in Philippine theater — equipping you with skills to elevate your artistry so that you’re ready to book that next play, commercial, competition, and go-see you’ve been eyeing,” shares Ong.

A New Chapter for The Sandbox Collective