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Royal MTC celebrates Filipino culture on stage through song

DAANRoyal MTC is thrilled to present Daan: A Journey Through Song at the John Hirsch Mainstage, starring two of musical theatre’s most celebrated divas, Stephanie Sy and Ma-Anne Dionisio. Showcasing Broadway’s most beloved hits, contemporary works from Filipino Canadian musicals, and a sneak peek at a new work in development at MTC, Daan is sure to delight any fan of musical theatre.

Daan is Tagalog for “the road” and Sy and Dionisio, backed by a live band led by Larry Roy, have created a stunning selection of music to showcase their journey through the past, present and future of musical theatre.

The idea to celebrate Filipino culture on stage was born around the development of Rizal, a new musical commissioned by MTC about the life and legacy of José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, written and composed by Winnipeg’s own Joseph Aragon.

Sy is a favourite on Winnipeg stages, most recently at MTC she captivated audiences as Jenna in Waitress. She returns in the 2026-27 season in the iconic role of Roxanne in Cyrano de Bergerac. This marks Dionisio’s debut performance at MTC, who rose quickly to fame as Kim, in the Canadian Premiere of Miss Saigon and has since graced stages around the world including Broadway and the West End in London.

“I am so excited to present this gorgeous evening of song led by Stephanie and Ma-Anne. Their talent is truly world class, and we are so lucky that they’ve chosen Royal MTC as a home to share this remarkable celebration with our community.” says Artistic Director, Kelly Thornton.

Daan: A Journey Through Song takes place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the John Hirsch Mainstage at 174 Market Avenue. Ticket information is available by visiting the Royal MTC website or by calling Royal MTC Box Office at 204-942-6537.

About Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre

The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre produces 10 plays on two stages, a regional tour, a wide range of youth programming and two festivals: Pimootayowin: A Festival of New Work and North America’s second-largest Fringe, the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Kelly Thornton and Executive Director Evan Klassen, Royal MTC remains Manitoba’s flagship theatre.

Photo and Wardrobe by Caroline Mangosing