Through the Bamboo (2026)
Produced by
Playwrights: Byron Abalos and Andrea Mapili
Director: Chantelle Han
Venue
Run
July 9th, 2026 – July 19th, 2026
Synopsis
In Through the Bamboo, twelve-year-old Philly is pulled into an action-packed adventure while mourning the loss of her lola (“grandmother” in Tagalog) when she opens an old book and finds herself tossed into the fantastical land of Uwi.
Similar to The Wizard of Oz, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Alice in Wonderland, this imaginative Filipinx-Canadian folktale adventure invites audiences into a magical world brought to life through inventive object puppetry, immersive storytelling, and audience participation. Inspired by Philippine mythology, the production weaves together themes of grief, love, and legacy, offering a rich theatrical experience rooted in intergenerational wisdom and a vibrant celebration of culture. (eventbrite.ca)
Cast
| Olivia Sgambelluri | Performer |
| Ann Paula Bautista | Performer |
| Jainee Fernandez | Performer |
| Jude Baris | Performer |
| Neil-Erine Palmaria | Performer |
Creative Team
| Byron Abalos | Playwright |
| Andrea Mapili | Playwright |
| Chantelle Han | Director |
| Olivia Wheeler | Set Designer |
| Olivia Wheeler | Puppet Design |
| Echo Zhou 周芷會 | Lighting Designer |
| Miquelon Rodriguez | Sound Designer |
| Jung A Im | Costume Designer |
| Michelle Urbano | Puppetry Director |
Production
| Heather Bellingham | Stage Manager |
| Carlos Varela | Production Manager |
| Nathan Gregory | Technical Director |
| Stephon Smith | Sound Technician |
| Eryn Carpenter | Technician |
| Motzie Dapul | Movement Advisor |
| Mandy E. MacLean | Access Coordinator |
| Lili Robinson | Marketing |
| Lili Robinson | Outreach |
| Catie Thorne | Front of House and Volunteer Coordinator |
| Emily Jung | Poster & Illustrations |
| Amira de Vera | Publicity |
