QUEZON CITY, Philippines (June 2026) — What happens when one of Philippine cinema’s most beloved satires jumps from the big screen to the stage? Expect bigger laughs, even messier drama, and a sharp look at the realities of creating art.
The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) has officially opened “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live sa Cheter!,” the first live theatrical adaptation of the hit satirical franchise. The production runs from June 19 to Aug. 16 at the PETA Theater Center in New Manila, Quezon City.
The latest installment keeps the franchise’s trademark blend of comedy, absurdity and self-aware humor while turning its attention to the world of live theater.
A play within a play
This time, the story revolves around an ambitious production of Aurelio Tolentino’s classic play “Kahapon, Ngayon at Bukas,” first staged in 1903 and regarded as one of the country’s most important theatrical works.
That serious historical piece unexpectedly collides with the chaotic universe of “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank,” creating a production filled with celebrity antics, backstage drama and questions about power, resistance and artistic ambition.
Leading the madness is Eugene Domingo, who returns as an exaggerated version of herself. She assembles the “Ugeng-gengs,” a troupe of aspiring performers, and gathers an eclectic creative team to stage a production that quickly spirals beyond anyone’s control.
Still funny, still asking difficult questions
Despite its outrageous comedy, the production continues the franchise’s tradition of examining difficult issues in Philippine arts and culture.
Playwright Chris Martinez said the show intentionally avoids offering easy answers.
“The play doesn’t try to resolve that. It just puts it onstage,” Martinez said, inviting audiences to wrestle with the questions long after the curtain falls.
Marlon Rivera, who directed the first three “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank” films and now joins the cast, said the production also asks viewers to examine their own role as audiences.
He posed the question: “Once the tyrant is expelled and the star is covered in shit, does the audience walk out clean, or are they left holding the ticket stubs of their own complicity?”
Strong audience response
Interest in the production has been strong since tickets went on sale. PETA said the show’s first two weeks sold out, with several additional performances also reaching full capacity.
Performances are held at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. through Aug. 16 at the PETA Theater Center.
Ticket prices are:
- VIP: PHP 3,500 (approx. $61)
- Orchestra Center: PHP 2,800 (approx. $49)
- Orchestra Side: PHP 2,500 (approx. $44)
- Balcony Center: PHP 2,800 (approx. $49)
- Balcony Side: PHP 1,800 (approx. $31)
The cast includes Eugene Domingo, Melvin Lee, Andoy Ranay, Meann Espinosa, JC Santos, Stella Cañete-Mendoza, Joshua Lim So and Marlon Rivera, together with the “Ugeng-gengs” ensemble.
Tickets remain available through TicketWorld and Showbuyers while selected performances still have seats.
