Often hailed as the “First Lady of Philippine musical theater,” Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo has spent decades shaping the local stage with her commanding presence and emotional depth.

She began her theater journey at just 15, and from that moment, the stage became her sanctuary. Over the years, she has taken on a wide range of iconic roles, from Mrs. Lovett in “Sweeney Todd” to Diana Goodman in “Next to Normal” and Liesl in “The Sound of Music.” Each performance has added another layer to a career defined by versatility and dedication.

This year, Menchu steps into yet another demanding role as she portrays Maria Callas in the local staging of “Master Class” by Terrence McNally. The play follows the story of the American-born Greek soprano, famously known as La Divina (The Divine One), who revolutionized opera by merging powerful vocal technique with intense dramatic expression.

The production marks the 25th anniversary of the Philippine Opera Company and will be directed by Jaime del Mundo. During the play’s launch on April 21, 2026, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle spoke with Menchu about her life in theater, her evolving craft, and the challenge of taking on one of opera’s most formidable figures.

Beyond the spotlight or roles I play, I am just a mom, really. Very different from some of the roles I have played. But that’s why it’s so wonderful being on stage. You get to escape into a whole different world and become a whole different person.

When I did roles I never thought I’d be able to do. Roles like Evita, which was a range I was not comfortable with. And great acting roles like Diana in “Next to Normal,” Mrs Lovett in “Sweeney Todd,” Fosca in “Passion,” etc. In life, of course, it was having my two children. That made me a better person and a better actress.

It’s perfecting the craft. I can never say I know it all. If I did, then I would stop growing. With each play or musical, there is a chance to learn and step into the character's shoes. In directing, it becomes about: What story do I want to tell?

To always give your all. Always approach each role with passion and dedication. Discipline is also very important. The theater makes me a better person.

I have had many nights of frustration, particularly in difficult roles. I love being challenged, and I am very hard on myself. But I just work hard and do my best. Sometimes I conquer it, and sometimes I don’t. But that’s how it is. It’s always a learning experience.

I think the challenge of stepping into Callas' shoes. Everything she tries to teach is also what I tell students or my cast when I am directing. I stand by her ideals.

I have given several master classes, and I find myself echoing Callas even before I studied this script. I also think about the text, what the words mean, my own deep feelings, and my experiences. That's important as an actress.

Never take the craft for granted. Always give your all. Always give an honest performance and work hard. Never compromise and give a mediocre performance. Always seek to tell the story. Prepare your mind and body and focus yourself.