#TheaterPH - Behind the Curtain: Why Theater Critics Are the Unsung Heroes of Philippine Stage
Most of us have a love-hate relationship with critics. They’re the ones who can make or break a show with a single review, right? But what if I told you there’s a whole other side to the story, one that’s less about tearing things down and more about building something up?
That’s exactly what PalabasTayo.com is exploring in their new two-part video series, “Critic on Critic.” Instead of the usual spotlight on actors and directors, this time the focus is on the people who watch, think, and write—the theater reviewers. Vincen Gregory Yu and Ryan Robert Flores, two names you might recognize if you’re a regular in the local theater scene, are stepping out from behind their laptops to share what it’s really like to be a critic in the Philippines.
What I love about this series is how it flips the script on what we think critics do. Forget the stereotype of the grumpy reviewer with a red pen. These guys are allies to the craft, offering insights that help artists grow and audiences see things in a new light. It’s not just about pointing out what went wrong—it’s about celebrating what went right, and sparking conversations that make the whole theater community stronger.
The show doesn’t shy away from the real stuff, either. Vincen and Ryan talk about everything from being banned from shows (yes, that happens!), to covering marathon three-hour productions, to the thrill of discovering hidden gems in university and community theaters. There are games, memorable lines from past reviews, and candid stories that reveal just how much heart goes into every critique.
And it’s not just the critics weighing in. Playwright Luna Griño-Inocian shares how honest feedback helps her grow as a writer, while Broadway World’s Oliver Oliveros reminds us that reviews should inform and uplift, not just criticize. Stage designer Joey Mendoza points out how important it is for reviews to be timely—because let’s face it, nobody wants to read about a show that closed last month. And Philippine Star columnists Ricky Toledo and Chito Vijandre highlight how critics spark conversations that deepen our appreciation for both the play and the human condition.
So, next time you read a theater review, remember: it’s not just about the show. It’s about the people behind the words, the artists who put themselves out there, and the community that grows stronger with every honest conversation. “Critic on Critic” is your backstage pass to the world of Philippine theater criticism—and trust me, it’s a ride worth taking.
Catch the series on PalabasTayo.com’s official Facebook page starting November 3, and follow them on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for more updates. Who knows? You might just find yourself seeing the stage—and the critics—in a whole new light.
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