#TheaterPH - A New Chapter for The Sandbox Collective: Toff De Venecia Steps Back, Sab Jose Steps Up
After more than a decade of shaping the local theater scene, Toff De Venecia is taking a well-earned pause from his role as Managing Artistic Director of The Sandbox Collective. Known for his bold vision and cultural advocacy, Toff is heading abroad to pursue postgraduate studies—leaving behind a legacy that has redefined what it means to create meaningful, socially relevant theater in the Philippines.
His final directorial bow? Side Show: The Musical, opening July 26 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Black Box Theater in Circuit Makati. It’s a full-circle moment for Toff, who directed the same show over 15 years ago at the start of his career.
Enter Sab Jose: Actress, Director, and Now Artistic Director
Stepping into the spotlight is Sab Jose, a familiar face both on and off stage. With a Master’s degree in Musical Theatre from the UK and over a decade of experience as Sandbox’s Marketing & PR Director, Sab brings a unique blend of artistic flair and strategic vision to her new role.
She’s no stranger to the stage—having starred in productions like Lungs, Eto Na! Musikal nAPO!, Shrek, and RENT, among others. But beyond the spotlight, Sab has also made her mark as a director, educator, and grief consultant, most recently lending her expertise to Next to Normal.
What’s Next for Sandbox?
Sab is already hard at work shaping the company’s next season, with plans to expand its repertoire while staying true to its roots in advocacy-driven theater. “Sandbox has always been about telling stories that matter,” she shares. “I’m excited to build on that legacy and create a space where new talent and fresh ideas can thrive.”
She also hints at a deeper focus on arts education—something she’s passionate about and eager to champion in her new role.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
For Toff, this isn’t goodbye forever. “This is farewell—for now,” he says. “I’m off to learn more about innovation, public policy, and public value, and I hope to bring those lessons back home.”
Side Show: The Musical runs from July 26 to August 17, 2025. It’s more than just a show—it’s a celebration of a remarkable journey and the beginning of an exciting new era for The Sandbox Collective.
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