Unveiling the Mythic Cast of Theatrical Epic YEMAYA
9 Works Theatrical unveils a powerhouse ensemble for the highly anticipated premiere of YEMAYA, a visceral new production exploring myth, motherhood, and the tides of fate.
Words Rebelyn Beyong
Photos courtesy of Lee Morale
May 17, 2026
The restless pull of the tides is calling, and local theater enthusiasts are in for an unforgettable journey. 9 Works Theatrical has finally pulled back the curtains to reveal a formidable powerhouse cast for its highly anticipated upcoming production, YEMAYA.
Set to be a sweeping theatrical event, this premiere promises to captivate audiences with a narrative deeply anchored in fantasy, perseverance, and hope.
At its core, YEMAYA follows a young boy’s epic journey as he boldly traverses lands and seas in search of his true place in the world.
According to the production notes, what initially starts as a mere "wondering of 'what if' turns into an adventure of 'what could be'". It is a story purposefully designed to be a "visceral exploration of myth, motherhood, and the tides of fate".
Powerhouses and rising stars take the stage
The impressive ensemble is a brilliant blend of seasoned theater titans and highly sought-after young talents. Anchoring the production in the titular role of Yemaya/Inay is the legendary Bituin Escalante, a Gawad Buhay and Awit Award winner whose three-decade career has firmly cemented her status as a Philippine theater powerhouse.
The pivotal role of Jesus/Mulo will be dynamic, shared by two distinct talents: Tommy Alejandrino, an award-winning actor known for the critically acclaimed film The Baseball Player, and Benedix Ramos, a multi-talented Star Magic artist recently seen in Next To Normal and Bar Boys: The Musical.
Meanwhile, taking on the crucial role of Maya are Sheena Belarmino, also a Star Magic artist and Gawad Buhay-nominated actress and singer, alongside Ness Roque, a touring performance dramaturg and educator currently pursuing her doctorate at the Tokyo University of the Arts.
Adding further depth to this mythic ensemble are veteran actor-director Herbie Go, who joins as Tico, and award-winning theater and film actress Sheenly Gener, taking on the role of Lila. Berlinale Talents acting alum Anthony Falcon, celebrated for his award-winning turn in Mga Gabing Kasing Haba Ng Hair Ko, steps in as Jelin, while accomplished multidisciplinary artist Wenah Nagales rounds out the cast as the official cover for Yemaya/Inay.
Bringing the myth to life
To masterfully translate this epic narrative from page to stage, 9 Works Theatrical has assembled a stellar artistic team steered by Ed Lacson Jr. as director and set designer, alongside Eljay Castro Deldoc as the Filipino translator, and Teresa Barrozo as music and sound designer.
The production is spearheaded by managing director and executive producer Santi Santamaria, along with artistic director Robbie Guevara.
Prepare to be swept away by the currents of this mesmerizing myth. With a legendary cast and an enchanting story, YEMAYA is undoubtedly poised to make massive waves in the local theater scene this coming June.
Theatergoers can dive into the world of YEMAYA on all weekends from June 13 until July 5, 2026. Shows will run at The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Makati.
Tickets are currently available via Ticket2Me.net.
