Into the Woods Experience: Chasing Dreams and Fairy Tales

It’s two days before the date I chose for the much-awaited musical here in the Philippines. After browsing numerous Into the Woods reviews, I ended up here. I don’t know why. Maybe I am just that excited.

Been a fan of musicals but I only watch them in movies, as watching musicals in theatres are expensive. The first play I watched in a theatre was a gift from my late husband, which I went to with him. It was at RCBC Makati, a musical play with Nikki Gil in it called Sweet Charity. But yeah, I will be finally watching again in a theatre, this time, alone.

I am so excited for the show. Forgive me, but it’s not because of the story that I booked Into the Woods, but because it was Lea Salonga. THE GREAT LEA SALONGA! It’ll be the first time I’ll see her perform face-to-face. **insert happy dance** But seeing posts and reviews from those who attended the first runs and knowing the amazing casts who will perform, I know that it will be an amazing show.

Bought the ticket at TicketWorld, they sent the voucher to my email which will serve as my ticket. I read that you can have a physical ticket printed at the venue for P50. Do you need it? No, but for full Into the Woods experience, yes. haha There’s also a printed program which costs P750??. Do you need it. Again, no, but for full experience… **wink**

The show will be held at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater at Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati.

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**will update this post once done watching. And may I just add, I’ve been sick for two days now, so please please, let me be okay before Sunday, Lord. I can’t lose this opportunity and the money I’ve paid for it. hahaha Super nakakahiya and istorbo for the audience if I’m coughing and sneezing. 😀

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And so I went (August 10). Thank you, Lord, for healing.

After our church morning service in Batangas, I traveled to Manila and went straight to Ayala Circuit Makati. The last time I was there, it was nothing fancy—just a spot where friends would spend time together. You know, tambay, kwento, food trip. But when I arrived, I thought naligaw ako. haha The place has transformed into this posh, lively mall with well-known brands, restaurants, and even a theatre. And not just any theatre—the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre! Honestly, I couldn’t believe I was standing in the same spot I used to chill in years ago.

And what brought me there this time? Into the Woods!

What is the musical about?

Into the Woods is basically this fun mashup of all the fairy tale characters we grew up with—Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel. Each one has their own wish or dream they’re chasing — finding love, becoming rich, or starting a family, etc. At first, it feels like they’re all just living in their own little fairy tale bubbles, but once they step into the woods, their stories start crossing paths in ways you wouldn’t expect. And that’s where things get interesting.

As they journey deeper into the woods, it’s no longer just about happy endings. The characters are forced to face their fears, anxiety, regrets, and the consequences of the choices they make. Some moments are funny, some are heartbreaking, and some really make you think. What struck me is how relatable it all feels—because who hasn’t wished for something, only to realize later na hindi pala ganun kasimple?

By the end, you see that the woods aren’t just a place of magic, but also a symbol of life’s twists and turns. The big takeaway? Wishing for something is easy, but living with the outcome is a whole different story. And sometimes, the things we think will make us happy bring challenges that change us in unexpected ways.

A Night to Remember: Watching Into the Woods

But let me tell you the moment that truly made it unforgettable: seeing Ms. Lea Salonga live on stage. THE Ms. Lea Salonga!!! 🤩 I’ve admired her for as long as I can remember, and to finally see her perform in person—it felt like a dream. Hearing her sing right there in front of me gave me so much joy. It’s one of those experiences I know I’ll be talking about for years. Big thanks to Theatre Group Asia for bringing this production to the Philippines!

The whole show was just amazing! The set looked fantastic—very Pinoy with the capiz, the orchestra nailed every note (as if I know every note. hahaha), and the story really hit hard in the best way. Of course, Ms. Lea was incredible, no doubt! But, I also have to say—Arielle Jacobs really stood out, and Ms. Eugene Domingo? Total revelation! I know that she’s an amazing actress but I didn’t know that she can sing, too. The Bakers, Nyoy Volante and his wife, made me feel all the emotions, the two comedic princes had us laughing nonstop, and Jack (Nic Chien) with his cow, Milky White? Sobrang cute and nakakatuwa! Honestly, everyone on that stage brought something special. It was one of those performances where you just want to clap until your hands can’t anymore.

Walking out of the theatre, I felt so full—of joy, awe, and a little bit of pride that a production like this was staged here in the Philippines. It wasn’t just a night at the theatre; it was a memory etched in my heart.

So, what should I watch next? Les Mis? 🤔

PS. I had my physical ticket printed. 😀 I checked their merch, too. Ang gaganda! But, a bit pricey for me so didn’t buy. Also, can’t stop reading Into the Woods reviews the whole month of August. haha