‘Yemaya’ by 9 Works Theatrical Full Cast Announced
9 Works Theatrical has unveiled the full cast for its upcoming staging of Yemaya, a Filipino translation of Yemaya’s Belly by Quiara Alegría Hudes (In the Heights, Water by the Spoonful).
First written in 2003 as Hudes’ debut play, the production features a translation by Eljay Castro Deldoc, which aims to bridge the gap between the play’s vibrant Latin American roots and the Philippines’ shared archipelagic experiences. The staging also marks the directorial return of Ed Lacson Jr..
Yemaya follows a young boy’s epic journey across lands and seas as he searches for his place in the world.
Leading the cast are Bituin Escalante as Yemaya/Inay; Benedix Ramos and Tommy Alejandrino, who alternate as Jesus/Mulo; and Sheena Belarmino and Ness Roque, who alternate as Maya.
Completing the cast are Herbie Go as Tico, Sheenly Gener as Lila, Anthony Falcon as Jelin, and Wenah Nagales as cover for Yemaya/Inay.
Joining the creative team are Ed Lacson Jr. (director and set designer), Eljay Castro Deldoc (Filipino translator), Teresa Barrozo (music and sound designer), Wika Nadera (assistant set designer and art director), JM Cabling (movement director), Ericson Navarro (costume and prop designer), Jethro Nibaten (lighting designer), Sheik Completado (technical director), Elliza Aurelio (hair and makeup designer), and Lee Morale (photographer).
The production marks 9 Works Theatrical’s first venture into straight plays in 17 years.
Yemaya will be staged on all weekends from June 13 to July 5, 2026, with 8:00 PM performances on Fridays and 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM performances on Saturdays and Sundays at The Black Box, The Proscenium Theater. Tickets are ₱2,900 (VIP), ₱2,600 (Premium), and ₱2,200 (Regular), available via Ticket2Me.
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