EXCLUSIVE: Take a First Look at 9 Works Theatrical’s YEMAYA in Rehearsal
The production explores myth, motherhood, and the 'tides of fate.'
Manila, Philippines—Get an exclusive first look inside the rehearsal room of 9 Works Theatrical’s upcoming production of Yemaya.
A Filipino translation of Pulitzer Prize winner Quiara Alegría Hudes’s Yemaya’s Belly, the play follows a young boy’s search for home across land and sea. Translated by Eljay Castro Deldoc and directed by Ed Lacson Jr., the production bridges the playwright’s Latin American roots with the Filipino archipelagic experience. Weaving elements of magical realism with the once-aspired-for "American Dream," Yemaya aims to resonate deeply with local realities.
The production stars Bituin Escalante (Yemaya/Inay), Tommy Alejandrino (Jesus/Mulo), Benedix Ramos (Jesus/Mulo), and Sheena Belarmino (Maya). They are joined by Ness Roque (Maya), Herbie Go (Tico), Sheenly Gener (Lila), Anthony Falcon (Jelin), and covers Wenah Nagales and Only Torres.
Joining Deldoc and Lacson on the creative team are Teresa Barrozo (music and sound design), Ericson Navarro (costumes and props management), Jethro Nibaten (lighting design), Wika Nadera, assistant set designer and art director; Sheik Completado, technical director; Eliza Aurelio, hair and makeup designer; and Lee Morale, photographer.
Yemaya runs at The Blackbox at the Proscenium Theater from June 13 to July 5, 2026.
Photos: Loreta Arroyo
Tommy Alejandrino, Bituin Escalante
Sheenly Gener
Sheena Belarmino, Benedix Ramos
Sheenly Gener
Sheena Belarmino, Benedix Ramos
Sheena Belarmino
Benedix Ramos, Sheena Belarmino
Benedix Ramos
Sheena Belarmino, Benedix Ramos
Herbie Go
Tommy Alejandrino
Ness Roque, Tommy Alejandrino
Tommy Alejandrino
Tommy Alejandrino
