In 2004, audiences around the world fell in love with “The Notebook”, the film adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' bestselling novel. More than two decades later, the story continues to captivate new generations, proving that timeless love stories never fade.

Originally published in 1996, Nicholas’ debut novel became a global phenomenon and inspired one of the most beloved romance films. Twenty years after the movie premiered, the story made its Broadway debut as “The Notebook: The Musical” in 2024. This year, the production arrives in the Philippines, featuring an all-Filipino cast.

Among them are young performers Benedix Ramos and Sheena Belarmino, who portray Noah and Allie during the earliest chapter of their love story. While their characters experience first love onstage, both actors are navigating exciting milestones in their own careers.

For Sheena, performing has been part of her life since childhood. The 20-year-old Cebuana began joining local productions at age eight before gaining recognition through television programs such as “Your Face Sounds Familiar,” “ASAP,” and “It's Showtime.”

Despite her success, there was a period when performing no longer felt as fulfilling. "There was a part of my career where I lost the spark in terms of the art, the craft itself, and performing," she shared.

Everything changed when she auditioned for “Tabing Ilog: The Musical.” At the time, she considered it a make-or-break moment. Landing the role reignited her passion for theater and set her on a new path.

Benedix's journey was different. Many firsts met him through “Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10: Celebrity Edition,” but his love for theater began after watching “Ang Huling El Bimbo” online during the pandemic.

"That's the only full theater production that I've ever watched online during the pandemic. I just manifested to be a part of it," he said.

He later auditioned and became an understudy. Although he never got to perform in the production, the experience opened the door to theater. His first major stage role came through “Tabing Ilog: The Musical,” where he was paired with Sheena.

"The rest is history,” Benedix said. “Since then, I continue working in the theater. It's so addicting and it just really gives me that particular joy that you can't find elsewhere."

Their journey to “The Notebook” began with an unexpected phone call. Neither initially knew what production they were being considered for. When Sheena learned she had been cast as Young Allie, she was stunned.

“I knew the song ‘My Days.’ It was really popular when ‘The Notebook’ was released on Broadway. And then I got the role. I’m like, 'Is this true?'"

Unlike many productions adapted for local audiences, “The Notebook: The Musical” will stay faithful to the original Broadway version while featuring a Filipino cast.

As they prepare for the role, both actors have discovered personal connections with their characters. Sheena relates to Allie's determination and maturity.

"She's a hardworking girl. A very smart girl. Even if she's privileged, she knows how to live life." Having balanced work and studies from a young age, Sheena sees similarities in Allie's grounded outlook.

Benedix, meanwhile, identifies with Noah's dreamer spirit. "The young Noah is such a dreamer. Some people would think that my dreams are just really too small. But to me, it means the whole world,” he said.

Both are excited about the growing appreciation for Philippine theater and hope to inspire aspiring performers to keep learning, gain confidence, and trust the process.

"You don't really have to be perfect," Sheena said. "Because it makes it human. It makes it real."

This September, audiences will once again witness Noah and Allie's unforgettable love story. For Sheena and Benedix, however, “The Notebook” represents more than a romantic musical. It is another chapter in careers shaped by passion, perseverance, and a love for storytelling.