In this play, you’ll see one—or maybe two—weddings!
Take this as your sign to support local student productions. First, step into a world where childhood wonder meets the rich tapestry of Philippine folklore. This enchanting children’s play invites audiences of all ages on a journey across dimensions. Moreover, it takes us back to those carefree days when an abandoned lot could become an entire universe.
Therefore, get ready for an extraordinary theatrical experience! The Benilde Theater Company—under the Theater Arts Program of the School of Arts, Culture, and Performance (SACP)—proudly presents “Abay ang Tropa sa Kasal Ng Mga Tikbalang”.
The play was written by YOJ and Laurence de Vera.
Furthermore, it is directed by Anthony Peñaranda and co-directed by Erich Baldove. Ultimately, this production offers a delightful celebration of creativity and storytelling, arriving just in time for National Children’s Book Day!
As the stage direction whispers:
May isang kasalan na hindi mo malilimutan… At baka ikaw ang susunod na mahatak sa kanilang mundo.
The World And World-makers
At some point, we’ve all been those kids—innocent, imaginative, and endlessly curious.
To start, the story follows a group of children who stumble upon a vacant lot. They decide to pass the time by playing pretend weddings. However, what begins as harmless fun takes an unexpected turn. Soon, they encounter legendary creatures who are holding a wedding of their very own!
On a strangely warm and sunny afternoon, the lines between reality and myth begin to blur. Meanwhile, as the mythical wedding unfolds, rain unexpectedly starts to pour. This signals that true theater magic is at play.
Reflecting on the experience, one of the playwrights, Laurence De Vera shares:
It’s my first time actually writing a full-on children’s play. At nakakatuwang nakasama ko si YOJ sa proseso!”
Laurence De Vera is a writer-director and a Performing Arts graduate from Bulacan State University. Previously, he directed various plays and short films for international and local festivals. For instance, his film “fifty-fifty” became an official selection in the 50th MMFF Student Shorts Competition.
Additionally, he is an alumnus of CCP’s VLF: Writing Fellowship Program, where he conceived Isang Gabi—a timely play about the drug war. He is also a two-time Best Director winner at the Tanghalaya Theater Festival and the playwright behind the regional award-winning play Mali Ba Ang Mangarap Sa Mundong Puno Ng Takot? (Maling-Mali!).
Now, taking a small break from his usual grim themes, “Abay ang Tropa sa Kasal Ng Mga Tikbalang” marks his first-ever children’s play alongside YOJ.
Meanwhile, co-writer YOJ is a theater and film artist from Tondo, Manila. She is a graduate of Theater Arts (Production Track) from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde. Her work explores experimental and devised forms across stage and screen. Consequently, her credits include productions such as (Pwedeng) Hindi Totoo: Baba sa Sirko Dugo (2023) and Nowhere/Now Here: The Peregrines (2023).
As a playwright, her works have been featured in the Virgin Labfest through the VLF16 Fellowship, VLF18 Stage Readings, and the VLFXX Main Festival. Furthermore, she joined the Dedels Playwright Workshop under Eljay Castro Deldoc. Most recently, she served as a guest playwright speaker for the Ateneo Writer Skill Public Writing Workshop in 2026.
For YOJ, this play champions children’s sensibilities by awakening their culture and reintroducing mythology to the current generation:
Sa pamamagitan ng children’s play, we share the story of everyone na minsang naging bata while connecting it sa PH mythology lalo na’t kultura ang humuhubog sa bawat isa.”
She adds:
And special highlight sa innocence, since children easily adapt adults’ character and their environment. Dito din mas-showcase kailan magsisimulang tumalim yung muwang nila.”
In short, this play is a love letter to the children of today and the children of the past. Beyond that, it honors the brave production company that brought this piece to life. Packed with non-stop kulitans, charming humor, and lively moments, this production captures the vibrant spirit of youth while celebrating the wonder of stagecraft.
Cast Reveal!
Meet the amazing cast bringing this magical story of folklore, music, and friendship to life!
First, Nyang Perez leads the cast as Ka Ayo. Alongside her, the Bata group features:
- Hannah Nono
- Sean Mapalad
- Jeric Tan
- Cher “Malaya” Victorino
- Erich Baldove
In addition, the mystical creatures are out in full force! Look out for characters like Nuno, Duwende, Mga Tikbalang, and Magulang.
Kitakits Sa Spot? Ticketing & Tropa Bundles
You can catch all the live action at the 5/F Theater of the Benilde Design+Arts Campus.
Overall, the show runs on multiple dates from August 7 to August 12:
- Opening Day (August 7): Two shows at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
- Matinee Shows (August 8 & August 10): Shows start at 2:00 PM.
- Final Run (August 11 & August 12): Two daily shows at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
When it comes to securing your spot, individual ticket options include:
- Benildeans: ₱249
- Regular Guests: ₱299
- Seniors / PWDs: ₱239
- Opening Show: ₱499
Alternatively, if you plan to attend with family or friends, you can take advantage of special group discounts:
- Duwende Bundle (3 Pax): ₱850
- Katropa Bundle (5 Pax): ₱1,350
- Lamang Lupa Bundle (7 Pax): ₱1,780
To reserve your seats, simply complete your registration via their tikbalang tickets page. Otherwise, you can buy tickets directly at the 12/F Cafeteria Hallway Ticket Booth (in front of A1208) at the Benilde Design+Arts Campus.
Kita-kits sa teatro, mga ka-tropa!
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