Daily Tribune
(FROM left) Paul Mansfield, chief operating officer, GMG Productions; Jillian Gatcheco-Cantada, vice president (Major Categories head) UnionBank; Eina Garrido Wong, assistant vice president (Program Lead), UnionBank and Carlos Candal, chief executive officer GMG Productions.
Photograph courtesy of Avzea Studios
UnionBank is changing the way Filipinos experience culture by making top international musicals available locally. In partnership with GMG Productions, the bank has helped bring some of the most celebrated stage shows to Philippine audiences.
Since April 2023, UnionBank has backed 15 major productions at prominent venues nationwide, including hits like Hamilton and Miss Saigon with GMG Productions. This move shows its commitment not only as a financial institution but also as a gateway to premium entertainment.
One highlight in the 2025 lineup is Come From Away, an award-winning musical with global recognition. This show continues UnionBank’s tradition of delivering exciting experiences that go beyond everyday banking.
UnionBank cardholders enjoy perks that make attending live performances more rewarding. From early ticket presales to special discounts, holding a UnionBank card opens access to prime seating and exclusive offers.
For Come From Away, cardholders received early ticket access last February, plus a 15 percent discount. These benefits reflect UnionBank’s focus on adding value to customer relationships through meaningful opportunities.
Running through 29 June at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Come From Away is one of this year’s most anticipated shows. It tells the true story of the Newfoundland town of Gander, where 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 passengers were unexpectedly grounded during the 9/11 attacks — four coordinated Islamist terrorist suicide attacks by al-Qaeda against the United States in 2001. The town’s population nearly doubled overnight, and what followed was a remarkable story of compassion and generosity.
Created by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, who wrote the book, music, and lyrics, the show premiered on Broadway in 2017 after successful runs in San Diego, Seattle, Washington D.C. and Toronto. It went on to win acclaim in London’s West End and Dublin.
Come From Away has received widespread recognition. At the 2017 Tony Awards, it earned seven nominations including Best Musical, Best Original Score, and Best Book of a Musical. The production won Best Direction of a Musical, awarded to Christopher Ashley. That same year, it also won Outstanding Musical at the Drama Desk Awards.
In 2019, the London production was named Best New Musical at the Laurence Olivier Awards. The musical has been celebrated across Broadway, the West End, and Canadian theaters. It has since become one of the most successful and beloved shows in recent years.
“Through our partnership with GMG Productions, we’re proud to give our cardholders access to world-class entertainment that goes beyond the transactional,” said Mukul Sukhani, head of Cards and Consumer Loans at UnionBank. “Come From Away is a powerful, timely production that embodies the kind of relevant storytelling we want to bring closer to Filipino audiences, now made even more special by its talented Filipino-led cast.”
The Manila staging features a Filipino cast, which includes Cathy Azanza-Dy, Caisa Borromeo, Garrett Bolden, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Becca Coates, Steven Conde, Mayen Cadd, Rycharde Everley, Topper Fabregas, Sheila Francisco, Carla Guevara Laforteza, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Gian Magdangal, George Schulze and Chino Veguillas.
The production is led by director Michael Williams, with Rony Fortich as musical director and Delphine Buencamino as choreographer. Other key creatives include Kayla Teodoro (production design), Harry Tabner (lighting), Luke Swaffield (sound), Myrene Santos (hair and makeup), Hershee Tatiado (costumes), and Joel Goldes, the dialect coach from the original Broadway show.
The partnership between UnionBank and GMG Productions continues to boost live entertainment in the Philippines. GMG has brought musicals like Cats, Matilda the Musical, and The Phantom of the Opera to Manila, with Dear Evan Hansen and Wicked on the horizon.
Through this collaboration, UnionBank expands its role beyond banking into arts and culture. The brand embraces creativity and connection by supporting events that foster shared experiences and enrich Filipino lives.
Come From Away held its gala night on 6 June, drawing theater enthusiasts, media personalities, and local celebrities. The show’s heartfelt story and commendable performances earned a standing ovation.
UnionBank cardholders still have the chance to see this production, whether you are a longtime theater fan or attending your first major musical. With a UnionBank card, you secure a seat at one of this year’s most meaningful shows.
