This November 2024, Tiny Beautiful Things: A Play About Life – In Letters makes its much-anticipated Philippine premiere, bringing heartfelt stories and human connections to the stage. Presented by The Sandbox Collective, this production wraps up the company’s 10th-year anniversary season, celebrating a decade of innovative theater. Directed by Gawad Buhay awardee Jenny Jamora, the play is set to deliver a powerful emotional experience for audiences of all ages.

Adapted from Cheryl Strayed’s book, Tiny Beautiful Things brings to life the stories from Strayed’s time as an anonymous advice columnist. The play draws from real-life letters, reflecting the highs and lows of human emotions, and offers thoughtful advice that touches the soul.

A Story of Life, Love, and Letters

At the heart of Tiny Beautiful Things is the character of “Sugar,” who writes under a pseudonym while responding to deeply personal letters from readers. The questions she receives range from heartbreak and grief to love, relationships, and self-doubt. Sugar’s responses are raw, real, and full of wisdom, making this play a poignant reminder of the power of empathy and understanding.

Director Jenny Jamora leads the artistic team in crafting a play that blurs the lines between fiction and reality. She shares that the set design—Sugar’s apartment—mirrors the journey of the characters, particularly the relationship between Sugar and the letter writers. “How much Sugar shares of herself is reflected in how she and the letter writers share the physical space,” Jamora explains, “The space is physically the same, but toward the end of the play the way they use it should also reflect the community this group of people has become.” Showcasing the importance of connection and community in navigating life’s challenges.

Iza Calzado Takes on the Role of Sugar

Stepping into the role of Sugar is none other than the acclaimed actress Iza Calzado. Known for her strong screen presence, Iza is sure to bring depth and emotional gravitas to this layered role. Sugar isn’t just an advice columnist—she is a guide, a friend, and a mirror for those who are searching for answers in life.

Calzado will be joined on stage by Rody Vera, Gabby Padilla, and Ketchup Eusebio, who will portray various letter writers seeking advice from Sugar. These letter writers remain anonymous, but their stories—covering the full spectrum of human emotions—will feel relatable to everyone in the audience. Additionally, Regina De Vera and Brian Sy will take on the roles of letter writers in select performances.

Together, the ensemble cast will bring these letters to life, creating a dialogue between the audience and the characters that speaks to universal experiences of love, loss, and everything in between.

An Artistic Collaboration for the Ages

Behind the scenes, Tiny Beautiful Things boasts an impressive roster of talents in its artistic team. With Jenny Jamora directing, audiences can expect a fresh and engaging take on the material. Marcel David serves as assistant director, while Kayla Teodoro handles set design, and Kiefer Sison takes charge as lighting and technical director. Arvy Dimaculangan manages the sound design, with Krystal Kane as costume stylist, and JV Rabano behind the lens as the production’s photographer.

Each member of the team has played a vital role in building the world of Tiny Beautiful Things, ensuring the play is both visually stunning and emotionally moving.

The People Behind The Sandbox Collective

The Sandbox Collective has long been a key player in the local theater scene, known for bringing innovative and thought-provoking productions to Filipino audiences. For Tiny Beautiful Things, Toff De Venecia serves as Managing Artistic Director, alongside Anna Santamaria as Finance and Operations Director, Sab Jose as Marketing and PR Director, and Maine Manalansan as Design Director. This powerhouse team has worked tirelessly to ensure that this play resonates with Filipino theatergoers.

Rounding out the production crew are Charyl De Guzman as Production Manager, Pachot Festejo as Head Stage Manager, Loreta Arroyo as Marketing and PR Manager, and Marielle Filoteo as Social Media Manager. Together, this dedicated team has shaped a production that not only entertains but also touches hearts.

Catch Tiny Beautiful Things This November

Tiny Beautiful Things will run from November 16 to December 8, 2024, at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater in Circuit Makati. The intimate venue is the perfect setting for a play that thrives on human connection and emotional vulnerability.

Showtimes:

• Fridays: 8:00 PM
• Saturdays and Sundays: 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM

Tickets are available through Ticket2Me at bit.ly/tinybeautifulmnl. Given the buzz surrounding this production, tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to grab yours before they’re gone!

The production is presented by The Sandbox Collective in partnership with Concord Theatricals and Samuel French, Inc., and is made possible with the support of MAC Cosmetics (official makeup partner), Privato Hotel (official hotel partner), and Pitchworks (official billboard partner).

For more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and ticket information, be sure to follow The Sandbox Collective on their social media channels:

Instagram: @thesandboxco Facebook: @thesandboxcollective X (formerly Twitter): @thesandboxco
#TinyBeautifulMNL #SandboxNowandTen

In a world where we often feel isolated in our struggles, Tiny Beautiful Things serves as a reminder that we are never truly alone. Whether you’ve experienced heartbreak, loss, or even the highs of love, there’s a letter in this play that will speak to you. And with a powerhouse cast led by Iza Calzado, supported by a talented creative team, this production is bound to be one of the most memorable theater experiences of the year.

So, mark your calendars and prepare to be moved by the stories, emotions, and insights shared in Tiny Beautiful Things. Whether you’re a long-time theater lover or someone who’s simply looking for an evening of reflection and inspiration, this play is a must-see.