An affecting story, superb acting from a top-notch cast, and a thoughtfully designed set make 9 Works Theatrical’s production of Yemaya a must-watch.
Photo: Myra Ho
Yemaya is a Filipino translation of Quiara Alegría Hudes’s Yemaya’s Belly, which follows Jesus, a Cuban boy born into a humble farming family who dreams of a bigger world after his first taste of cold Coca-Cola. The play follows his journey into manhood, from his family’s farm to the city and to a boat sailing to the USA.
It’s important to note that Yemaya is not localized to the Philippines. The play is still set in Cuba and features Cuban characters, but the story is told in Filipino. It’s easy to forget that, given that the cast speaks Filipino and the characters have names like Jesus and Maya.
What’s interesting is that even if Yemaya is set in the Caribbean, the story still feels familiar. There are strong family bonds, a longing for a life that might be found in the big city, and a desire to sometimes just sit back, shoot the breeze with friends, and drink fresh buko.
Photo: Myra Ho
The relaxed atmosphere extends to how the cast conveys the story. There’s an ease and confidence to how they deliver their lines and move. Tommy Alejandrino, who plays Jesus/Mulo, has mannerisms that feel natural and lived-in. For example, he often lifts up his shorts during the latter half of the play, and it makes you wonder if this is an acting choice or if they were always in danger of actually falling.
The whole cast was superb, and each had their moment to shine. Alejandrino’s portrayal of Jesus as a cheeky yet endearing boy was wonderful, as was Sheena’s sweet Maya. Sheenly Gener was a joy to watch as the no-nonsense yet caring store owner, Lila.
Photo: Dan Esguerra
The adults provided the gravitas that made Yemaya a deeply moving story. Anthony Falcon showcased his range as Jelin, Jesus/Mulo’s buoyant and lighthearted uncle, until a key scene shows a different side to him. He proved that drama can be expressed quietly and with control. Herbie Go, meanwhile, veered the opposite route and went all out, and the entire show is the better for it.
And of course, there is Bituin Escalante. What can one expect when she enters the stage? She plays both Jesus/Mulo’s Inay and Yemaya. As Inay, she’s motherly, but as Yemaya, she’s sensual and enticing. The shift is magical. Yemaya isn’t a musical, but thank the theater gods that Escalante is asked to sing in the show.
Photo: Dan Esguerra
Another highlight of the show is the set, which is wonderfully done. The stage is transformed into an island, complete with sand. Sea travel plays a pivotal role in the play, so the props are suspended in the air and raised and lowered using ropes, similar to boat rigging. More than just aesthetics, this serves a practical purpose: set changes can be done seamlessly without stagehands.
When you put all these ingredients together, what you get is a magical show that will transport you to distant lands while still feeling like home.
Alejandrino alternates with Benedix Ramos for the role of Jesus/Mulo, while Belarmino shares the role of Maya with Ness Roque. Wenah Nagales is a cover for Yemaya/Inay.
The artistic team is made up of Ed Lacson Jr. as director and set designer; Eljay Castro Deldoc as Filipino translator; Teresa Barrozo as music and sound designer; Wika Nadera as assistant set designer and art director; JM Cabling as movement director; Ericson Navarro as costume and prop designer; Jethro Nibaten as lighting designer; Sheik Completado as technical director; Elliza Aurelio as hair and makeup designer; and Lee Morale as photographer.
Yemaya will be showing on all weekends from June 13 until July 5, 2026, at 8:00 PM on Fridays and at 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, at The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Makati. Tickets are now available on Ticket2Me.net.
For updates, partnerships & show buying inquiries, follow 9 Works Theatrical on Facebook and Instagram (@9WorksTheatrical) and on X (@9WorksOfficial).
ALSO READ: A Powerhouse Cast Comes Together for a New Fantasy Musical Inspired by Myth and Motherhood
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
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 stay updated with the latest around the Philippines and beyond!
