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Life Lessons from Side Show: Why This Musical Hits Home for Parents and Kids

by Alexa Villano
July 31, 2025

The musical dives into the story of conjoined twins Daisy and Violet, and how they navigate being different and making life-altering decisions in a world that often sees them as a spectacle

Surviving in a judgmental world is never easy, especially when you’re born different. But in the case of Daisy and Violet Hilton in Side Show, their difference becomes their strength. Instead of shrinking into what the world expects of them, they boldly show who they truly are, even when others view them as little more than a circus act.

The musical opened last July 26 at Power Mac in Circuit Makati, with theater fans, families, and friends showing up in support of director Toff de Venecia and the talented cast. This production marks De Venecia’s final directorial work before he heads abroad for further studies.

Photo courtesy of the Sandbox Collective

More than a tale of identity, Side Show explores universal challenges — from trust and heartbreak to chasing dreams and reclaiming your voice. Here’s why it’s a meaningful experience for both parents and kids:

Taking the Risk

Violet and Daisy, once the headlining act of a side show, are gifted with beautiful voices and an even bigger dream. When Perry and Buddy offer them a shot at stardom, the sisters are thrilled — but not everyone around them is supportive. The Boss (Jon Santos) and even some close friends resist the idea of change. Why leave something that already works?

Still, the twins decide to leap. Despite Jake’s warning — their closest friend — they choose to embrace the unknown.

Photo courtesy of the Sandbox Collective

Out of the Comfort Zone

When we get too comfortable, we often stop growing. Daisy and Violet long for more than applause; they dream of a life beyond the sideshow. And they know they won’t get there if they stay where it’s safe.

As parents, we often urge our kids to stick to the familiar. But Side Show reminds us that growth happens when we give them space to take risks, even if the outcome is uncertain.

Trust Matters

The sisters place their trust in Buddy and Perry, and for a while, things go well. But soon, their emotional bonds are tested. Violet falls for Buddy, who claims to love her back — until he admits he doesn’t have the courage to marry her. Daisy, meanwhile, proposes to Terry to secure a movie deal, only to face rejection when he refuses to admit his feelings for her in public.

These emotional setbacks remind us how fragile — and essential — trust is.

Photo courtesy of the Sandbox Collective

When Trust Is Broken, Everything Falls Apart

When someone opens up to you, they’re offering something precious: time, vulnerability, and belief. Breaking that trust isn’t just hurtful — it can unravel everything you’ve built.

Whether between parents and children, siblings, or friends, trust is the foundation of relationships. And rebuilding it once it’s broken is never easy.

Taking Your Power Back

Throughout the show, Daisy and Violet are pulled in different directions — by Terry, by Buddy, by the Boss. But when Daisy finally rejects Terry’s offer and insists on choosing her and Violet’s path forward, it marks a turning point.

She’s done following other people’s ideas of what’s best. She’s ready to choose for herself, and that’s a lesson every family can learn from.

In the end, advice will come from everywhere, loved ones, mentors, even well-meaning strangers. But the decision has to be your own. And for our kids, learning that early is powerful.

Photo courtesy of the Sandbox Collective

Why Side Show Sticks With You

At its core, Side Show isn’t just a musical about being different — it’s a story about survival, decision-making, love, and the power to define your future.

It reminds us that behind every “unusual” face is a story worth telling. For families, it’s a moving conversation starter on what it means to be brave, to be true to yourself, and to step into the world, not as someone else’s idea of you, but as who you really are.