National Artist Ricky Lee’s acclaimed novel Para Kay B is set to make its theatrical debut this March 14-30, 2025, at the Doreen Fernandez Theater in Ateneo de Manila University.
The highly anticipated stage adaptation is penned by Palanca-winning playwright Eljay Castro Deldoc and directed by Yong Tapang Jr. The production is a collaboration between Fire & Ice Live and Tungo at Liwanag sa Teatro Inc.
First published in 2008, ‘Para Kay B’ is a compelling narrative that interweaves the love stories of five women—Bessie, Ester, Irene, Erica, and Sandra—each grappling with different struggles in love and relationships. The novel also introduces Lucas, a writer attempting to control their fates through storytelling.
During a press conference for the production, Ricky Lee expressed his excitement over the adaptation, admitting that he initially envisioned ‘Para Kay B’ as a film rather than a stage play.
“I always imagined that the novel would become a movie, but not a stage play. It is difficult and challenging to adapt Para Kay B for the theater. I am glad that it’s finally happening,” Lee shared.
The play will feature an ensemble of seasoned theater and film actors, including: Liza Diño-Seguerra as Ester, Nicco Manalo as Lucas, Gold Aceron, Jay Gonzaga, Wency Vencilao, Divine Aucina, Yesh Burce and many more.
Diño-Seguerra, who is also co-producing the project, expressed her deep connection to the story.
“Being part of this production—both as an actress and a producer—feels like coming home to a story that has touched so many hearts,” she said.
Staying true to Lee’s signature storytelling style, the stage adaptation will explore the complexities of love, heartbreak, and fate through diverse and sometimes controversial narratives. Among the themes tackled in the play are:
- A lesbian mother with a gay son
- An incestuous affair
- A struggling actress searching for true love
- A woman from a fictional place seeking to define her identity
Known for its raw and unfiltered portrayal of relationships, ‘Para Kay B’ also serves as a social commentary on the intricacies of love and the human experience in Philippine society.
The production will run from March 14 to 30, 2025, at the Doreen Fernandez Theater, Ateneo de Manila University.
Ticket prices:
- PHP 1,800 (free seating)
- PHP 2,000 (reserved seating)
Tickets are available at ticket2me.net.
