Lola Basyang Is Back, and She Wants the Kids to Talk Back
“Reviving a classic does not mean reproducing it exactly as it was.”
PETA’s Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang at iba pa… is back with a new story about phones, vlogs, and fake news. This time, it’s made for kids raised on screens.
A Century-Old Storyteller, Reimagined
Lola Basyang first appeared in Liwayway Magazine through the pen of Severino Reyes. In 2005, PETA brought her stories to the stage. Now, 21 years later, she’s back at the PETA Theater Center until September 30, with a longer run coming in February 2027.
Two Classics and One New Tale
The show pairs two Reyes classics adapted by Christine Bellen. Ang Prinsipeng Mahaba ang Ilong follows a prince who learns that worth goes beyond looks. Ang Binibining Tumalo sa Hari follows a young woman who beats power and prejudice with wit and courage.
The standout, however, is J-mee Katanyag’s new story, Ang Bantay ng Huling Buwan. It follows Uriel, a curious girl navigating phones, vlogs, and endless questions. Her story mixes folklore with science and digital culture to explore fear, critical thinking, and misinformation.
Why the Lola Basyang Revival Feels Different
Director Phil Noble returns with a new cast, plus fresh visuals, music, and choreography. His mission: make live theater thrilling for kids who grew up scrolling. “I want them to discover another kind of world, the world of live theater,” he says.
The secret is the format. Lola Basyang breaks the fourth wall, asks the children questions, and actually listens. As a result, young viewers make choices and even help the characters solve their problems.
Stories live because they are able to speak to changing generations.
For Maribel Legarda, who directs the touring excerpt version, that’s the whole point. “As PETA always does, we take the time to finesse certain elements so they can speak more meaningfully and responsibly to children and audiences today.”
Permission Slip
You’re allowed to talk back to the stage. Theater doesn’t have to be quiet and still. Bring a kid, or your inner kid, and answer when Lola Basyang asks you a question.
The Story Keeps Going
This isn’t a carbon copy of the Lola Basyang you remember. Instead, it’s a space where generations meet, imagine, and listen to each other. And that’s exactly what keeps a classic alive.
What Lola Basyang story do you still remember from childhood? Tell us in the comments.
Catch the show: Performances run until September 30 at the PETA Theater Center. Tickets cost ₱1,000 to ₱1,800. Message King Joshua Nalupa on Viber at +63 993 643 6018. For school bookings and touring, email kingjoshuanalupa@petatheater.com.
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