The Playbook Club presents "Napapanahon" and "CoR (Commission on Relationships)" at The Mirror Theatre Studio, Makati - A Double Feature Exploring Young Love Against All Odds
Manila's vibrant theater scene is set to witness another groundbreaking production as The Playbook Club (PBC) presents their highly anticipated twinbill featuring two original works by playwright Rafael Jimenez. Running at The Mirror Theatre Studio in Makati on June 20 and 22, 2025, this double feature promises to deliver compelling narratives about young love, resilience, and finding hope in challenging times.
Napapanahon weaves a captivating tale of time travel and second chances. Set in 2032, successful and recently engaged Ruby uses a newly invented time machine by Kinabukasan Corporation to travel 12 years into the past. Her mission: to reconnect with Arthur, her high school sweetheart who dreams of becoming a musician. When Ruby attempts to reveal why she traveled all this way to see him, Arthur remains unconvinced. The play serves as "an ode to being a student, playing guitars in classrooms, and making up for lost time."
CoR (Commission on Relationships) presents a dystopian vision of the Philippines where the government passes the Commission on Relationships act, outlawing unregistered romantic relationships and imposing heavy taxes on love itself. In this "not-so-distant future," Lau meets Luna at a wedding, and over a year of friendship, they develop feelings for each other while attempting to start a hidden relationship. The play follows the couple as they navigate a loveless Philippines, challenging an oppressive system that commodifies human connection.
Both plays showcase Rafael Jimenez's sharp understanding of how external forces—whether personal regret or governmental control—can interfere with young people's aspirations and relationships. These themes resonate powerfully in today's world, making the production both timely and timeless.
The production showcases an impressive lineup of emerging Filipino theater talent, reflecting The Playbook Club's commitment to nurturing the next generation of performers.
Napapanahon Cast:
• Arthur: Los Akiyama
• Ruby: Erika Rafael
CoR Cast:
• Luna: Dippy Arceo
• Lau: Rafael Jimenez (also the playwright)
• Aris/Clerk: Cholo Ledesma
• Officer/Senator: JV Fulgencio
Notably, Dippy Arceo brings significant experience to the production, having been featured in major Manila productions including PETA's upcoming "One More Chance" musical adaptation. The cast represents the fresh voices and perspectives of rising theater artists who are reshaping Philippine performing arts.
The production benefits from a stellar creative team that ensures professional quality across all elements:
• Playwright: Rafael Jimenez
• Director of Napapanahon: Pia Ysobel Cruz
• Director of CoR: Zoë De Ocampo
• Intimacy Director: Missy Maramara
• Lights Designer: G Roi Reyno
• Sounds Designer: Uriel Tibayan
• Technical Director: Francisco Yabut
• Makeup & Styling: Fifi Santelices
• Photography: Jaennina
The Playbook Club has established itself as a vital force in Manila's independent theater scene. This grassroots production house operates as a comprehensive artistic collective, staging theater productions, producing short films, and hosting weekly script reading nights that serve as a creative laboratory for emerging artists.
Beyond production work, PBC provides casting services for films, music videos, theater productions, and commercial advertisements, supporting their pool of talent across multiple entertainment mediums. Their most recent major success was the 2023 sold-out run of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," directed by Nelsito Gomez and featuring an all-female cast—a production that demonstrated their commitment to innovative interpretations of classic works.
The organization serves as a free and safe space for artists to discover, explore, and practice theater, embodying the grassroots spirit that has made them a launching pad for emerging Filipino talent.
Venue: The Mirror Theatre Studio, Makati Performance Dates:
• Friday, June 20, 2025: 7:00 PM
• Sunday, June 22, 2025: 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Ticket Information:
• Price: PHP 850 per ticket
• Limited Weekend Run: One weekend only!
• Purchase: tinyurl.com/FLLLTicketForm
This twinbill represents exactly what Philippine theater needs: bold original content that addresses contemporary issues while providing platforms for emerging talent. The Playbook Club's track record speaks for itself—their sold-out productions and commitment to nurturing young artists make this a significant cultural event.
The themes explored in both plays offer audiences both entertainment and meaningful reflection. "Napapanahon" questions whether we can truly change our past decisions, while "CoR" asks what happens when love itself becomes a crime. In an era where authentic human connection faces increasing challenges, these stories feel essential.
For theater enthusiasts, this production offers the opportunity to witness rising stars before they move to larger stages. For newcomers to independent theater, it provides accessible entry into contemporary Filipino storytelling with universal themes that resonate across audiences.
This is theater that dares to ask difficult questions while entertaining, challenges while comforting, and ultimately reminds us why love—in all its forms—remains worth fighting for.
The Playbook Club's twinbill production of "Napapanahon" and "CoR" runs June 20-22, 2025 at The Mirror Theatre Studio, Makati. Tickets are PHP 850 and available through their online form. This limited weekend run supports independent Filipino theater and showcases the next generation of Philippine performing arts talent.