Bela, Gabby Padilla to alternate as lead in 'People, Places, and Things'

Actresses Bela Padilla and Gabby Padilla will alternate in the lead role of Emma in The Sandbox Collective’s staged reading of Duncan Macmillan’s acclaimed play “People, Places, and Things,” set for a limited run this August.

Directed by Sab Jose, the production follows Emma, a successful actress whose carefully constructed life unravels as she enters a rehabilitation center and confronts addiction, memory, and the difficult process of recovery.

The production also marks Bela Padilla’s theater debut. The actress is known for her work in television and films, such as "100 Tula Para Kay Stella" and "Meet Me in St. Gallen."

Gabby Padilla, meanwhile, returns to the stage after appearing in productions including "I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change" and "Tiny Beautiful Things."

Joining the two actresses is an ensemble of theater and screen performers led by Jake Cuenca, who returns to the stage as Mark after previously appearing in The Sandbox Collective’s "Lungs."

Veteran stage actors Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo and Audie Gemora also join the cast. Lauchengco-Yulo will portray the Doctor, Therapist, and Mom, while Gemora will play Paul and Dad.

Completing the cast are Robbie Guevara as Foster, Reb Atadero as T, Brian Sy as Shaun and Mark (understudy), Mariella Laurel as Laura, Pamela Imperial as Charlotte, Miel Abong as Jodi, and Salve Villarosa van Schoonhoven as the Narrator.

Widely regarded as one of the most acclaimed contemporary plays of the past decade, "People, Places, and Things" explores addiction, rehabilitation, identity, and the often painful journey toward healing.

The Sandbox Collective said the production continues its commitment to staging contemporary works that challenge audiences through timely and thought-provoking stories.

The staged reading of "People, Places, and Things" will run for four performances only on August 15 and 16 at The Blackbox at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati. —Sherylin Untalan/CDC, GMA News