MAKATI CITY — The classic Greek tragedy Oedipus Rex is receiving a modern local twist in an upcoming theatrical production by De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. Titled REX, the staging will run from November 12 to 22, 2026, at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati. Written by playwright Joshua Lim So and directed by Tuxqs Rutaquio, the narrative centers on the influential Po family in the fictional city of Tebes. The drama unfolds against a backdrop of public infrastructure failures and catastrophic flooding, transforming ancient themes of power, hidden truths, and civic accountability into a story relevant to contemporary Filipino theatergoers.
A Star-Studded Reunion with Local Realities
Moving away from a traditional period piece, REX anchors itself in a corporate disaster scenario involving a prominent construction dynasty navigating the aftermath of a deadly flood. Headlining the ensemble are seasoned actors Eula Valdez and Martin del Rosario. The production marks their first joint theatrical project in 12 years, following their acclaimed collaboration in the 2014 film Dagitab, for which they received Gawad Urian recognition. The production also brings together established theater performers Bong Cabrera, Sheryll Ceasico, Emilio Macabantad, and EJ Jallorina, alongside student actors from Benilde’s Theater Arts program. This combination of experienced performers and emerging talents creates an opportunity to bring different generations of Filipino theater practitioners together onstage.
A Multidisciplinary Academic and Professional Effort
The staging also serves as a collaborative undertaking involving various creative disciplines at Benilde. Beyond the cast, students, faculty members, and alumni contribute to the production through Production Design, Dance, Music Production, Multimedia Arts, Photography, and Creative Industries Management. Their participation highlights the range of artistic and technical work involved in mounting a theatrical production, extending the learning experience beyond performance itself. Running for approximately one hour and 45 minutes, REX opens on November 12 at 7 p.m., followed by a gala performance on November 13. Additional evening shows and weekend matinees will continue through November 22. Tickets are available through Ticket2Me, priced at PHP2,700 for VIP/Patron, PHP2,300 for Deluxe/Premiere, and PHP2,000 for Standard seating.
