UMVA has learned that a vibrant wave of artistic events is sweeping Manila, igniting the city’s cultural pulse with unforgettable exhibitions, performances, and competitions.
Renowned painter Celeste Lecaroz unveils “Many Marias: Callas,” a striking nine‑work cycle that blends five oil paintings with four pen‑and‑ink drawings, each capturing the haunting allure of opera legend Maria Callas. The collection hangs in the lobby of the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Tower, and will stay on view until May 30, coinciding with a dazzling production of the Tony‑winning play Master Class.
At the same time, the Asia Society Philippines and Manila House host an intimate afternoon of storytelling on May 27, where emerging voices Quintin Pastrana and Darwin Mariano read from their latest books and discuss the evolving landscape of Filipino literature.
Salcedo Auctions throws open its doors for the “Finer Pursuits” vernissage on May 28, showcasing a curated selection of Philippine masterpieces and rare collectibles that will soon be auctioned. The evening features a breathtaking pas de deux by Ballet Philippines, echoing the legacy of National Artist Leonor Orosa Goquingco.
Visual artist Joel Reglos presents his fifth solo show, “Reminiscence,” at Gateway Gallery in Quezon City. The exhibition reflects a personal pilgrimage through his artistic evolution, marrying bold aesthetics with a quiet spiritual resilience.
In June, the National Museum of Fine Arts will open “SANSÓ: Pusong Filipino,” a monumental tribute to the late contemporary master Juvenal Sansó, displaying a hundred of his most iconic works.
National Artist for Dance Agnes D. Locsin will share the story of her neo‑ethnic choreography in a lecture at the Ayala Museum on June 11, revealing the cultural roots and innovative steps that have defined her celebrated career.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the theater collective 9 Works Theatrical announces a bold new production, “Yemaya,” a Filipino translation of Quiara Alegría Hudes’s play. The show, directed by Ed Lacson Jr., reimagines a young boy’s epic journey through a vibrant fusion of Latin American rhythm and island heritage, running every weekend from June 13 to July 5.
The SinagLarawan Photo Contest opens its 2026 edition with the theme “Pagbubunyi,” urging photographers nationwide to capture everyday triumphs and the many ways Filipinos celebrate victory.
Finally, the Philippine Textile Council launches the 9th Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition and the 5th Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Weaving Competition, inviting artisans to showcase the finest hand‑woven textiles at the 16th Likhang Habi Market Fair in October.
