Classic Filipino folklore returns to the stage with refreshed storytelling, interactive theater, and a new story exploring the digital age
QUEZON CITY, Philippines — More than a century after Lola Basyang first captivated readers through the pages of Liwayway Magazine, the beloved Filipino storyteller is returning to the stage as the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) brings back Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang at iba pa… for a new generation of audiences.
The theatrical production runs from September 21 to 30, 2026, at the PETA Theater Center, with another run scheduled for February 2027. The show will also be available for school and community tours in either excerpt or full-length format.
Based on the stories of Severino Reyes, the revival revisits classic Filipino folklore while introducing a new narrative that connects traditional storytelling with the realities of today’s digitally connected youth.
The production features two classic tales adapted for the stage by award-winning writer Christine Bellen: Ang Prinsipeng Mahaba ang Ilong, which explores the idea that a person’s worth goes beyond physical appearance, and Ang Binibining Tumalo sa Hari, a story of wisdom and courage in confronting power and prejudice.
Joining these classics is Ang Bantay ng Huling Buwan, a new story written by J-mee Katanyag. Through Uriel, a curious girl navigating a world of phones, vlogs, and questions, the story brings Filipino mythology into conversation with science and digital culture.
It also explores themes of fear, critical thinking, misinformation, and collective action—issues relevant to young audiences growing up in the digital age.
CLASSIC THAT CONTINUES TO EVOLVE
For Bellen, whose stage adaptation was first presented by PETA in 2005, Lola Basyang’s enduring appeal lies in the possibilities her stories offer to every generation.
“Laging may bago sa bawat paglabas ni Lola Basyang sa entablado upang magkuwento sapagkat bukal siya tuwina ng harayang mapagpalaya sa isip ng kaniyang mga manunuod,” Bellen said.
Director Phil Noble, who previously directed the production, returns for the full-length revival with a new cast and creative team, alongside refreshed visuals, choreography, music, and staging.
Noble said the production also seeks to introduce children accustomed to screens, social media, and artificial intelligence to the experience of live theater.
“I want them to discover another kind of world—the world of live theater,” he said. “I want them to open themselves to other possibilities, to immerse themselves in the stories, and to become part of the magical world of Lola B.”
Associate director and choreographer Gio Gahol joins the creative team, alongside playwrights Bellen and Katanyag, set and property designer Julio Garcia, costume designer Carlo Pagunaling, musical director and arranger Kabaitan Bautista, composer Noel Cabangon, and lighting designer Satya Edilo.
The full-length cast features Kiki Baento and CB Garrucho as Lola Basyang, Yhuan Gatbunton as Prinsipeng Mahaba ang Ilong, Belle Mendoza as Gracia, Leo Lapitan as Bungal and Pido, Thor Ganchero as Duling, Nyla Festejo as Sharay, Roi Calilong as Datu, Ayla Garcia as Bebang, Mico Esquivel as Lamukot, and JC Sunto as Uriel.
STORYTELLING THAT INVITES PARTICIPATION
The production’s excerpt version, directed by Maribel Legarda, takes a similar approach to bringing classic stories closer to contemporary audiences.
Legarda said reviving a classic means allowing it to evolve while remaining meaningful and responsible in its engagement with children.
“Reviving a classic does not mean reproducing it exactly as it was,” she said. “Stories live because they are able to speak to changing generations.”
The excerpt version features Yhuan Gatbunton as Prinsipeng Mahaba ang Ilong, Ericka Peralejo as Gracia/Bebang, Carlon Matobato as Hari/Duling/Pido, James Pe Lim as Bungal/Lamukot, and Icee Po as Reyna/Kawal/Sharay.
Designed to make audiences active participants rather than passive spectators, the production incorporates interactive storytelling. Lola Basyang breaks the fourth wall, asks questions, listens to children, and invites them to participate in the unfolding narratives.
Through imagination, play, and audience participation, young theatergoers are encouraged to respond to the characters, make choices, and help resolve challenges within the stories.
The excerpt version’s creative team includes production designer Boni Juan, puppet designer Siglo, and lighting designer Ian Torqueza.
KEEPING FILIPINO STORIES ALIVE
With its return, Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang at iba pa… seeks to bring generations together through stories that preserve Filipino folklore while making room for new perspectives.
For PETA, the revival is part of its continuing commitment to advocacy and educational theater—using the stage not only to entertain but also to encourage imagination, reflection, and meaningful conversations among young audiences.
By combining familiar tales with contemporary themes and interactive performance, Lola Basyang’s stories continue to find new life beyond the printed page, introducing a new generation to the enduring possibilities of Filipino storytelling.
For school bookings, community tours, and other inquiries, contact King Joshua Nalupa via Viber at +63 993 643 6018 or email kingjoshuanalupa@petatheater.com.
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