‘Pinocchio’ cast challenges star power culture, asks audiences to support talent

Ephesus Teatron Group urges audiences to support genuine talent over big-name celebrity connections.

For the cast of Ephesus Teatron Group Inc.’s “Pinocchio the Musical,” the biggest challenge in independent theater is not simply putting up a show, but it is convincing audiences to watch one without a familiar name on the poster.

Sweet Samaniego Buchanan, who plays the “Blue Fairy” and directs the production, did not hold back on the issue.

“Ang daming bumibili ng tickets dahil may pangalan ito, anak ito ni ganyan,” Buchanan said, questioning a culture where connections can seemingly sell more tickets than talent. With ticket prices ranging from ₱500 to ₱1,000, she admitted that their production struggles to sell when it does not have a “big star.”

“I’m very vocal about this. Naiiyak ako,” she said, stressing that the cycle should be broken.

Buchanan said the cast members were discovered through auditions, emphasizing that what she wants audiences to support is genuine talent. “Ang dami talagang starving artist sa atin,” she added.

Meanwhile, social media has changed how productions reach audiences. Buchanan recalled that during her Repertory Philippines days, theater groups had to personally visit sponsors and audiences to promote shows. Now, social media allows productions to reach people instantly.

Jay Paulo Danganan, who plays Signore Volpone, raised another concern about accessibility.  “We want theater to be more integrated,” he said. 

While NCR audiences have relatively accessible theaters, he asked, “Very thankful ang mga NCR kasi very accessible ang mga theater but what about sa mga nasa provinces? People who do not have television o internet, wala silang kaalam-alam that theater arts exist.” 

Danganan also highlighted the lessons and experience that live performances can offer. “Iba rin sa feeling ‘yong makikita mo ang performers on stage rather than on videos.”

“Pinocchio: The Musical” runs from October 9 to 11, 2026, at the Activity Center, 2nd Floor, Ayala Malls Feliz. Ticket prices were not listed and may be confirmed when booking.

READ: