The Sandbox Collective is back—and they’re kicking off 2026 with a bang. The award-winning theater company is opening its new season this February with the explosive rock musical Spring Awakening, to be staged at the newly minted Black Box at The Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati.
Photo: HBO
If you’re into boundary-pushing stories, hauntingly beautiful rock scores, and raw teenage angst, this show might just be your next theatre obsession.
What Is Spring Awakening All About?
Spring Awakening is based on the 1891 German play by Frank Wedekind, but with a rebellious rock twist courtesy of Grammy-nominated artist Duncan Sheik and lyricist Steven Sater. The title won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical
Set in 19th-century Germany, the story follows a group of teenagers as they navigate the confusing and often painful realities of growing up: from body changes and first love to the deafening silence of adults who refuse to talk about it all. It’s raw, it’s emotional, and it’s painfully real, especially for young people still fighting to find their voice.
The story is set to a powerhouse alternative rock soundtrack that channels every ounce of adolescent frustration into unforgettable music.
Meet the Creative Minds Behind the Curtain
Helming this production is Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan, a Gawad Buhay nominee known for Lungs, Sa Wakas, and Fringe Manila. Musical direction will be handled by Ejay Yatco, whose resume includes Next to Normal and Little Shop of Horrors.
This production also marks a new era for The Sandbox Collective as it steps into its next chapter under incoming artistic director Sab Jose-Gregorio.
“Spring Awakening marks the beginning of a new chapter here at Sandbox,” says Jose. “It’s not just a story about adolescence — it’s about reclaiming your body, your voice, your destiny. And most of all, it’s about empowering young audiences.”
The rest of the creative team includes Nunoy Van Den Burgh for choreography, Missy Maramara for intimacy direction, Wika Nadera for set design, Raven Ong for costume design, Gabbi Campomanes for assistant direction, and D Cortezano for lighting design.
ALSO READ: ‘Hamilton’ Is Coming to Cinemas This September — Here’s What We Know
Spring Awakening auditions
The Sandbox Collective is holding open auditions for Spring Awakening on August 31 and September 1, 2025. If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of a bold, groundbreaking musical, this is your shot.
Audition details and registration information can be found here.
Photo: The Sandbox Collective/Facebook
Get ready for a show that hits hard, rocks louder, and stays with you long after the curtain falls.
Are you excited about this? Let us know your thoughts.
Do you have a story for the WhenInManila.com Team? Email us at wheninmanila@gmail.com or send us a direct message at WhenInManila.com’s Facebook Page. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com community at WIM Squad and join our Viber group to keep updated with the latest news.
