Vlad Bunoan

Article (news)

Shiela Valderrama. Handout

Jude Cartalaba

For Shiela Valderrama, stepping onto the Tanghalang Pilipino (TP) stage isn&#x27;t just another performance on a long resume but a fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.The theater veteran is set to make her official TP debut in Juan Ekis&#x27; upcoming stage adaptation of &quot;Sayaw ng mga Ilaw,&quot; inspired by the moving short story by Cheeno Marlo Sayuno. Taking on the pivotal role of Nanay Lucia, Valderrama brings her signature grace and emotional depth to the resident theater company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1785733532212IMG_0756.JPG" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/></div>“I’ve always admired the company’s commitment to telling meaningful Filipino stories with excellence and integrity,” said Valderrama, who won the Aliw Awardee for Best Lead Actress in a Musical in 2025.“So when they called and offered me this opportunity, I immediately said ‘yes.’”&quot;Sayaw ng mga Ilaw&quot; weaves a poignant narrative centered on young Laya (alternately played by Jem Yana and Annika Co), who dreams of mastering the traditional pandanggo dance with the help of her older sister. But when their father — a hardworking construction worker — fails to return home, their world is suddenly plunged into uncertainty and heartbreak.As the family navigates the heavy waters of grief, Laya discovers that true light isn&#x27;t merely found in the steps of a dance, but in the enduring strength and love of family.<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1785733632320Shiela Headshot.PNG" style="width:633px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Shiela Valderrama. Handout</div>As rehearsals progress, Valderrama finds her own lived experiences as a mother echoing through her character’s emotional journey.“What resonates with me most is the story’s poignant reminder that even in life’s darkest moments, there is always hope,” she explained. “As a mother, that speaks to me deeply. Family has always been my greatest source of strength, and I understand the innate instinct to protect the people you love and to keep moving forward, even through uncertainty and heartbreak.”The musical is Tanghalang Pilipino’s 40th anniversary season opening salvo and will be staged at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, Pasay City from September 18 to October 11. Tickets are available <a href="https://bit.ly/SayawNgMgaIlawTickets">here</a>.

For Shiela Valderrama, stepping onto the Tanghalang Pilipino (TP) stage isn't just another performance on a long resume but a fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.

For Shiela Valderrama, stepping onto the Tanghalang Pilipino (TP) stage isn't just another performance on a long resume but a fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.

Shiela Valderrama makes Tanghalang Pilipino debut in ‘Sayaw ng mga Ilaw’

News

Entertainment

Lifestyle

Sports

Metro.Style

More

BINI

Sudoku

Word of the Day

Lotto

Horoscope

People, Culture, and Events

Shiela Valderrama makes Tanghalang Pilipino debut in ‘Sayaw ng mga Ilaw’

Jude Cartalaba

Published August 03, 2026 01:24 PM PHT

Read More:

Shiela Valderrama

Tanghalang Pilipino

Sayaw ng mga Ilaw

ABS-CBN Newsletter

Your go-to source for the latest news, entertainment highlights, exclusive interviews, and updates on your favorite Kapamilya stars.

ABS-CBN Newsletter

Your go-to source for the latest news, entertainment highlights, exclusive interviews, and updates on your favorite Kapamilya stars.

Sign Up

I have read and agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.

Haven't received our newsletter?

Check your inbox to verify and confirm your subscription.

ABS-CBN is the leading media and entertainment company in the Philippines, offering quality content across TV, radio, digital, and film. Committed to public service and promoting Filipino values, ABS-CBN continues to inspire and connect audiences worldwide.

Corporate

Investors

Governance

International Distribution

Corporate

Governance

Investors

International Distribution

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

AI Policy

Terms of Service

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.