Shakespeare returns to the stage as Repertory Philippines (REP) revives its long-standing Shakespearean tradition with a new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Directed by REP Artistic Director Jeremy Domingo, the classic comedy will run for three weekends from September 12 to 27, 2026, at the historic Saint Cecilia’s Hall, a National Cultural Landmark located inside St. Scholastica’s College in Manila.

Known for its English-language productions, Repertory Philippines is bringing Shakespeare back to Filipino audiences ahead of its 90th season. The production highlights the enduring appeal of William Shakespeare’s works, particularly his ability to explore love, human relationships, humor, conflict, and the complexities of the human experience through language.

The return to Shakespeare also marks an important moment in REP’s history. According to REP President and CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio, Shakespeare has played a significant role in the company’s more than six-decade history. The company’s last Shakespearean production was Hamlet in 2008, making A Midsummer Night’s Dream a highly anticipated return to the Bard’s works.

For Domingo, the production will remain faithful to Shakespeare’s original text and themes while allowing the cast to bring the language to life for a contemporary theater audience. The director aims to highlight the wit, double entendres, sarcasm, and theatricality that have helped make Shakespeare a lasting influence on English-language theater.

Leading the cast is Leaf Awardee for Best Featured Actor Randy Villarama, who takes on the dual roles of Oberon, the fairy king, and Theseus, Duke of Athens. Lesley Leveriza Lina and Giannina Ocampo-Van Hoven will alternate in the roles of Titania, the fairy queen, and Hippolyta, Queen of the Amazons and Theseus’ fiancée.

The young Athenian lovers are portrayed by Dani Roque and Isabelle Prado, alternating as Helena, alongside Sevee Eslabra as Hermia, Luis Marcelo as Lysander, and GK Diola as Demetrius. Joey Cosio-Mercado plays Puck and Philostrate, while Joel Parcon portrays Egeus, Hermia’s father.

Adding to the production are the Mechanicals, with Tristan Bite as Nick Bottom, Alexa P. Sandiego as Peter Quince, Rico del Rosario as Francis Flute, Ysh Bautista as Robin Starveling, Robert Bradly Hao as Tom Snout, and Bella Alejandro as Snug. The Fairy ensemble includes Alejandro as Peaseblossom, Dana Lee as Cobweb, Rosea Ansay as Moth, and Lorrie Figueroa as Mustardseed.

The creative team features Andie Villegas as Assistant Director, Jay Pangilinan as Musical Director, Jomelle Era as Choreographer, Ohm David as Set Designer, and Meliton Roxas as Lights Designer. 2026 Gawad Buhay winner for Best Costume Design Carlos Siongco serves as Costume Designer. Production Manager Bojo Barnes leads the production team, joined by Assistant Production Manager Phalie Medina, Stage Manager Nicole Chua, and Deputy Stage Manager Marta Muñoz.

With its return to Shakespeare, Repertory Philippines gives theatergoers an opportunity to experience one of the world’s most celebrated works of drama while witnessing a new interpretation shaped by Filipino theater artists. A Midsummer Night’s Dream is set to run from September 12 to 27, 2026, at Saint Cecilia’s Hall in St. Scholastica’s College, Manila.

Tickets are available through Ticket2Me and TicketWorld. Audiences may also contact REP at 0966-9054013 or 0962-6918540, or email promotions@repphil.org and sales@repphil.org. Updates and show schedules are available through Repertory Philippines’ official website and social media channels.