Manila Philharmonic Orchestra Celebrates 25 Years with ‘Lights, Camera, Encore’ Concert Featuring Hamilton and Studio Ghibli

Manila Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is delighted to announce its spectacular 25th anniversary concert, “Lights, Camera, Encore,” which will take place at The Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Ayala Malls Circuit Makati, on October 29, at 7 p.m. From the soaring harmonies of Broadway classics to the heart-wrenching themes of iconic movie and television soundtracks, “Lights, Camera, Encore” will provide listeners with a captivating musical experience to commemorate the over two decades of Manila’s premier orchestra.

Audiences can expect a loaded setlist featuring songs from Hamilton, A Star is Born, Star Wars, La La Land, Les Misérables, Game of Thrones, and select Studio Ghibli films.

The MPO will perform these compositions with an orchestra of over 80 members, including both current and former members. Musical guests Bituin Escalante, Lara Maigue, Arman Ferrer, the Philippine Madrigal Singers, and the University of Santo Tomas Singers will accompany them.

Maestro Rodel Colmenar, the orchestra’s founder and music director, is a distinguished conductor who is recognized for his ability to motivate audiences through the beauty and force of music. He will be the one to lead the orchestra that evening. Colmenar has collaborated with a number of exceptional local and foreign classical performers in his capacity as a conductor, such as French pianist Alexandre Tharaud and Filipino OPM legends Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Lani Misalucha, and Regine Velasquez.

The MPO was established in 1998 with the objective of bringing the symphony closer to Filipino audiences by performing both classic and contemporary music. It has since become a prominent orchestra in the Philippines, renowned for its world-class performances.

Marijo Colmenar, Vice President of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, expresses a sense of profound achievement and fulfillment as she contemplates the orchestra’s voyage to its 25th anniversary. “What was initially a “sideline gig” has evolved into a fundamental component of the Philippine music scene.” We are delighted to have had the opportunity to influence so many lives through our music, and ‘Lights, Camera, Encore’ is a commemoration of MPO’s dedication to its mission.

The orchestra’s contribution is symbolized by the concert. PARCaralan, an initiative of MPO and the PARC Foundation, will receive the proceeds from the event. This organization functions as a creative hub for underprivileged youth and struggling local artists, enabling them to achieve success in the performing arts.

Additionally, a portion of the funds will be allocated to the musicians who are members of MPO, a significant number of whom experienced financial and health-related challenges during the pandemic. “We are sincerely optimistic that this event will enable us to offer our musicians the necessary support and alleviate some of the hardships they have experienced,” Colmenar continues.

Manila Philharmonic Orchestra Lights, Camera, Encore Ticket Prices and Seat Plan

The orchestra’s voyage has reached a significant milestone with “Lights, Camera, Encore,” and the evening is expected to be unforgettable. Don’t overlook this chance to commemorate the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra’s 25th anniversary of musical excellence.

Tickets for “Lights, Camera, Encore” will be available for purchase on August 17 through Ticketworld. Ticket prices commence at ₱2,500. Access the comprehensive seating and pricing chart by clicking here. Follow the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra on Instagram and Facebook to receive event updates and additional information.