MAKATI CITY — A haunting legend of a serpent-crowned woman whose gaze turns the living into stone has found its way to the Proscenium Theater, giving theater lovers a fresh reason to visit Makati this May. Studio A Productions stages “Makara: The Musical” on May 23 and 24, 2026, at 7:30 pm, transforming the Rockwell Center venue into a dark fantasy world rooted in original Filipino storytelling. The horror-musical follows the tragedy of Makara, a lonely figure torn between her supernatural nature and her longing for a lost sister. For tourists and locals alike, the show offers a compelling after-dark cultural experience right in the heart of Makati’s upscale business and lifestyle district.
A Myth Reborn on the Philippine Stage
“Makara” blends local folklore, love, and suspense without relying on imported fairy tales. Writer Danna Bernardino wanted a monster that could stand on its own, one that “carries a completely original soul”. Although the character’s appearance may remind audiences of Medusa, her roots run deeper into Hindu-Buddhist mythology, and her heart beats with a distinctly Filipino sense of longing. The story is set in a small coastal town where everyday life collides with the supernatural, and where love is not only romantic but also familial and sacrificial.
Cherry Morena steps into the lead role as Makara, channeling the regal, misunderstood nature of an anti-hero while keeping a serpentine physicality. The cast also includes Abbey Romero as Seraphyra, a role that calls for both power and vulnerability.
From RCBC Plaza to Rockwell Center’s Newest Theater
The production had a preview run in April at the RCBC Plaza in Makati before moving to the more spacious and more prestigious Proscenium Theater. The 780-seat theater, located along Estrella Street inside Rockwell Center, is the first major performing arts venue to rise in the area. For visitors staying in or exploring Makati’s business core, the theater is easily reachable and sits just a short walk from Power Plant Mall and its dining and retail options.
Tickets are priced from PHP2,000 to PHP5,000 and can be purchased through the Studio A Productions website. With only two shows scheduled, the run is short, which adds a sense of urgency for anyone planning a cultural evening out in Makati.
A Theater Company That Embraces Original Horror
Studio A Productions was founded in 2023 and has quickly become known for its dark, immersive horror musicals. “It’s risky, honestly, because it’s hard to scare people without looking like you’re trying too hard,” Bernardino told Rappler earlier in May. But “Makara” marks a slight evolution; it still carries the company’s signature dread, but this time it is anchored by a love story that runs through families, friendships, and betrayal. The team works on unusually tight schedules, sometimes rehearsing for only two weeks before opening night, yet they have drawn overwhelmingly positive reactions from audiences.
Why Tourists Should Catch the Show
For travelers who want to experience Makati beyond its malls and restaurants, a night at “Makara” adds depth to any itinerary. The performance showcases original Filipino talent and storytelling, and the venue itself is a new cultural landmark worth seeing. The musical also runs during Heritage Month, making it a timely stop for those interested in how local artists continue to re-imagine Philippine mythology.
