We’re often told that our lives have seasons. Periods of new beginnings, of growth, of flourishing, and, along with it, periods of challenges and time to pause, rest, and reflect.
This second half of the year marks a flourishing once again for the local theater scene, with a number of shows running this month and gearing up for premieres throughout the quarter. Ushering in the uptick of theater’s busy season is Trumpets’ “Joseph the Dreamer,” taking the stage again after three years.
This 2025 production sees the beloved story of hope and faith in God’s timing in a new space, now at the RCBC Theater, with fresh faces and movement filling the stage. In “Joseph the Dreamer,” we witness not just Joseph’s journey as a seer of dreams but also that of his family’s—their growth, spiritually and emotionally through the experiences God has faced them with.
“Learning the story of Joseph from Rachel’s point of view, seeing the jealousy that drives Joseph’s brothers to do a cruel act, and then witnessing Joseph’s ultimate forgiveness really highlights how crucial understanding and letting go of grudges are,” says Julia Serad, who takes on the role of Joseph’s mother Rachel. “It’s a message that I understand deeply. It shows that healing relationships starts with empathy, not anger.”
For Naya Ambi, who alternates with Kayla Rivera as Asenath, becoming part of “Joseph the Dreamer” was a reminder of God’s perfect timing. “When we don’t understand why things don’t happen the way we wanted it to be, just looking into Joseph’s story will prove that what the enemy meant for Joseph’s life, God will turn it for good. For me, this is a story of redemption and trust on the One True Author of our lives,” she says.
Aicelle Santos, returning to the stage (we last saw her in her compelling reprise of her role Elsa in “Isang Himala,” the musical turned MMFF film), adds that the show has become a reminder for her: “I am where I’m supposed to be, doing the thing I love and blessing others through this show.”
In this 2025 run, the titular character Joseph is played on certain dates by Jordan Andrews. Filling in Joseph’s shoes has been a fulfilling experience, he shares, where he’s been encouraged to give the character his own unique take. “I’ve been helped so much by the creative team and this cast. The best part is being encouraged to bring my own version of Joseph to the table.”
And in the same way Joseph’s journey has brought him back to those dearest to his heart—his family—Ken San Jose, who alternates for the role of Benjamin, shares how becoming part of “Joseph the Dreamer” has been a full-circle moment for him. “It’s actually one of the first shows I ever did as a kid with my older brother,” he says. “I feel like it came at the perfect time in my life. [I’ve learned] to trust myself more, especially in areas like acting and singing. I’ve always loved performing, but this show reminded me that I’m capable of growing beyond what I thought were my limits.”
But aside from the nuances new cast members add to their portrayals of the time-loved characters, the creative team shared that though this story is still essentially the “Joseph the Dreamer” we’ve all loved over the years, tweaks to the performances can be expected.
Director Paolo Valenciano and musical director Myke Salomon both highlight the ensemble’s strength, which will be showcased through updated choreography. Choreographer MJ Arda notes how the music has greatly influenced the movement, leaning more into an interpretative style to move not just the characters across the stage, but the emotions of each song, too.
“Joseph the Dreamer” runs until July 20 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.
