#TheaterPH - A Carnival Of Talent: My Personal Take on The Sandbox Collective's Side Show
Last night, I stepped into a world where the strange becomes spectacular and the misunderstood take center stage—and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since. Side Show, The Sandbox Collective’s latest musical masterpiece, is not just a show—it’s an experience. And on VIP Preview Night, we were lucky enough to witness the magic unfold before the rest of the world.
From the moment I entered the Power Mac Spotlight Theater, I knew this wasn’t going to be your typical night at the theater. The space had been transformed into a carnival tent, complete with immersive set pieces and a layout that made us, the audience, feel like part of the freak show. It was intimate, eerie, and electric. You could almost smell the sawdust and popcorn.
A Clever Use of Technology
One of the most memorable scenes was when the production used live camera footage from the stage, following the characters into the dressing room. The footage was projected in real time, giving us a behind-the-scenes glimpse while the action continued seamlessly. It was smoothly and cleverly executed, adding a layer of intimacy and realism that made the moment unforgettable.
The Music, the Lights, the Magic
Ejay Yatco’s musical direction was nothing short of brilliant. Every note was intentional, every silence meaningful. Paired with Mark Dalacat's set design and Gabo Tolentino’s lighting design, the production kept us on the edge of our seats—sometimes literally. One standout moment was the number “Tunnel of Love”—a hauntingly beautiful sequence that used flashlights, sound engineering, and choreography so cleverly, it felt like we were inside the ride with the characters. It was spine-tingling.
Choreography That Speaks Volumes
JM Cabling’s choreography was a masterclass in storytelling through movement. Each number was crafted to reflect the characters’ inner turmoil and desires. The ensemble moved as one, yet each performer had a distinct presence. The choreography in “Come Look at the Freaks” was especially powerful—sharp, synchronized, and unsettling in the best way. It captured the tension between spectacle and humanity that lies at the heart of Side Show. Cabling’s work made every transition feel organic, and every emotion resonate through movement.
A Cast That Shines Bright
Let’s talk about the stars. Molly Langley and Krystal Kane were mesmerizing as Violet and Daisy Hilton. Their chemistry was so natural, their movements so in sync, that you’d believe they were truly conjoined. Krystal Kane, in particular, delivered what I believe is her best performance to date, even topping her roles in The Sound of Music, Spring Awakening, and Once On This Island. Her Daisy was bold, vulnerable, and unforgettable.
Jon Santos as the Ringmaster was, as always, a delight. Watching him is like attending a master class in character work. His quirky portrayal brought both menace and humor, making his character one of the most memorable of the night.
CJ Navato has truly found his home in theater. His charisma, vocal control, and emotional depth make him a standout. And Vien King as Buddy? Absolutely phenomenal. He brought the same charm and complexity that made Buddy such a compelling character in the Broadway revival—equal parts showman and conflicted lover. Vien’s performance was nuanced, heartfelt, and vocally strong, making Buddy’s internal conflict all the more compelling.
But the scene-stealer of the night? Joshua Cabiladas as Jake. I’ve always known Joshua could do comedy and drama, but I didn’t know he could hit those high notes while crying. His rendition of “You Should Be Loved” was raw, emotional, and vocally stunning. He poured his soul into every line, and the audience felt every bit of it. Jake’s character has always been a quiet powerhouse in the Broadway versions, and Joshua elevated that to new heights. His ability to balance vulnerability with strength was breathtaking.
The Unsung Heroes
The ensemble deserves a standing ovation of their own. Pitch-perfect harmonies, tight choreography, and boundless energy—they were the glue that held the show together. It’s a powerhouse cast through and through.
And of course, Toff De Venecia—what a way to close your directorial chapter (for now)! His vision tied everything together beautifully. The adaptation was seamless, heartfelt, and bold. We’ll be counting the days until your return after your postgraduate studies.
Final Thoughts
This is, without a doubt, The Sandbox Collective’s BEST musical production to date. It’s daring, emotional, and unforgettable. If you see one show this season, make it Side Show.
Catch Side Show at the Power Mac Spotlight Theater!
Playdates: July 26 to August 17
Tickets available via Ticket2Me or The Sandbox Collective’s official channels.
Step right up and witness the extraordinary. You won’t regret it. As early as now, I am hoping for a rerun! It is that GOOD!
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