Let the Lights Shine Beyond the Stage
The Sandbox Collective awakens Philippine theater enthusiasts with two back-to-back initiatives rooted in arts education and community engagement.
Words Rica Mae Labbao
Photos courtesy of The Sandbox Collective
March 06, 2026
It is in the roots that we learn to find wings—a look back at the reflections that mattered and helped us grow.
In the same language of theatrical play, The Sandbox Collective opened the curtains for the birth of ‘Sandbox Beyond The Stage: Sing Awakening’ and ‘Playground: The Sandbox Masterclass Series,’ providing an innovative space for artists, audiences, and all forms of art in the Philippine Theater to shine under the lights.
"I am incredibly proud and honored to share that our Arts Education and Audience Development programs are now in full swing. These programs represent an exciting new chapter - one rooted in education, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the continued growth of Philippine theater," The Sandbox Collective’s Artistic Director Sab Jose-Gregorio conveyed.
These moves signal a dynamic action reflected in the new era of The Sandbox Collective, as highlighted by Sab, "as the industry continues to grow and evolve, now is the perfect time to provide programs that cultivate both artists and audiences. These new initiatives are designed to give practitioners the space to explore, to train and sharpen their tools, and perhaps, to get their foot in the door."
Up And About With Broadway
Sandbox Beyond The Stage (BTS) is returning with an additional twist—open mic events along with quiz nights. This pop-up, which started in February, hosts interactive, community-building activities led by The Sandbox Collective’s new Head of Audience Development, Reb Atadero.
Atadero describes Sandbox BTS events as “nerdy,” but proves to be an effective, engaging way for fans to hang out and foster community.
"I want Sandbox BTS to be a name that theatre fans think about when they want to hang out and have fun with friends they've made watching shows or geeking out over theatre. I want it to be a hangout spot for those who live and breathe the stage and those who want an avenue to get into theatre, which can sometimes be intimidating."
For its session entitled ‘Sing Awakening,’ cast members from Spring Awakening will join the fun. This pop-up session was held on March 4, 2026, at the Sari-Sari Speakeasy Bar, Washington Street, Makati City.
Art of Mastery in Motion
This year, The Sandbox Collective launches ‘Playground,’ a series of masterclasses for artists who want to hone their skills and prepare themselves for when the next opportunity hits. It is designed to sharpen theater performers, focusing on exploration, collaboration, discipline, embodiment, and courage, according to The Sandbox Collective's new Head of Arts Education, Marvin Ong.
"If we are to contribute to making Philippine theater an industry, we need to be able to equip more people to the standards that it demands. And who better to give it than the legends, the masters, and the shapers of Philippine theater itself," Ong shared.
Speaking of Filipino theater superstars, this professional training series features a powerful roster of instructors, including the exemplary entertainer Audie Gemora, the “first lady” of the Philippine theater, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, renowned theater director Jaime Del Mundo, accomplished music wunderkind Ejay Yatco, and multi-awarded choreographer JM Cabling.
"You're learning from the best of the best in Philippine theater - equipping you with skills to elevate your artistry so that you're ready to book that next play, commercial, competition, and go-see you've been eyeing," Marvin expressed.
Applications are now open for the series, and classes will start on March 28, 2026, along with a showcase scheduled on April 18, 2026.
