The memories, experiences, and friendships of Eds, Badong, Corrine, James, Fonzy, Anne, George, and Rovic will take front and center anew as the famous teen drama show “Tabing Ilog” hits the theater stage.

More than two decades since the weekend afternoon show first hit the airwaves comes a fresh take on one of the well-loved shows that have carved a space in the psyche of Filipino audiences.

Before the advent of Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok, “Tabing Ilog” has been the launchpad of some of the industry’s most popular and reliable actors. Among them John Lloyd Cruz, Jodi Sta Maria, Baron Geisler, Paolo Contis, Desiree Del Valle, Patrick Garcia, Paula Peralejo, and Kaye Abad.

Another PETA collaboration
Initially conceptualized in 2019, “Tabing Ilog: The Musical” faced a significant bump and potential shelving following the onslaught of the pandemic. The incident pushed back all the planning, rehearsals, and preparations for the show.

But, after being inspired by the success of their first collaboration on "Walang Aray,” ABS-CBN decided to tread on and joined hands anew with the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) to finally breathe new life into the musical this year.

Directed by Phil Noble (“Dicktalks” & “Maynila”) with a script penned by Eljay Deldoc (“Virgin Labfest” & “Past, Present, Perfect?”) and musical direction and songs by Vince de Jesus (“Changing Partners” & “Third World Romance”), the show promises to offer an engaging narrative that tugs at the heartstrings of audiences.

As an ardent supporter of theater in terms of instilling values, honing creativity, and tapping new skills, ABS-CBN TV Production and Star Magic head Direk Lauren Dyogi has been one of the leading forces behind this production.

“Unang-una po marami pong salamat sa PETA sa pagtulong sa amin para mabuo itong pangarap namin na maisadula at matanghal sa entablado, ang ‘Tabing Ilog.’ Thank you Direk Phil, kay Vincent and everybody in the cast and crew for working hard to fulfill this dream. I know with diligence, hard work, and the guidance of our director and the entire staff of PETA na makakagawa na tayo ng Obra Maestra na mapapanood ng mas nakakarami,” said Dyogi.

Fresh faces, stories

Apart from its nostalgic value, the production has already garnered immense interest due to the exceptional talents and new faces it features.

Theater first-timers and Star Magic artists Anji Salvacion, Andi Abaya, Kobie Brown, Sheena Belarmino, BGYO members Akira Morishita and JL Toreliza, BINI's Jhoanna Robles, and Vivoree will be performing with Omar Uddin, who has been known in theater for his Lion King stint and seasoned theater actors such as Teetin Villanueva, Neomi Gonzales, Lance Reblando, Red Nuestro, Joann Co, to name just a few.

“Again, after two decades, we bring back the same stories of love, friendship, and family but with the new issues of Generation Z. We are excited about this. May this be a continuation of our partnership beyond this year! We look forward to seeing ‘Tabing Ilog: The Musical,’” Dyogi added.

With this star-studded team of creative powerhouses, "Tabing Ilog: The Musical," 2023 is gearing up to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of theater that will inspire, uplift, and bring people together.

“Tabing Ilog The Musical will happen at PETA Theater beginning Nov. 10 2023, and will run until Dec. 10, 2023. Buy your tickets online at KTX.PH! Remember, KTX.PH is your ultimate key to various experiences online!

Showbuyers may avail tickets through Justin Castillo at 09176373655 and email [email protected] for special rates.