What Makes Yemaya’s Story Feel So Familiar to Filipino Audiences

Bituin Escalante shares why the play’s themes of home, sacrifice, and hope feel deeply familiar to many Filipino families

Many Filipino families dream of building a better future for themselves and their children. For some, that journey means leaving home and starting over in another country—a decision that often comes with both opportunities and challenges.

This June, 9 Works Theatrical brings Yemaya to the stage, a Filipino adaptation of Yemaya’s Belly by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes. Veteran singer and actress Bituin Escalante takes on the role of Yemaya/Inay, a character whose story she believes will resonate with audiences, particularly Filipino families here and abroad.

A Story That Familiar for Many

During a media tour in May, Bituin shared what drew her to the production. She recalled speaking with playwright Ed Lacson before deciding to join the project and immediately connecting with the material.

“There was never a need to adapt it to the Filipino experience,” she said. “Something as alien as a Cuban immigration experience moves you deeply, speaks to you so much that you sign up for this obscure project.”

For Bituin, the story’s power lies in its universality. While the play is rooted in a specific cultural context, its themes transcend borders and backgrounds.

When members of the media pointed out how relatable the story feels, especially in today’s economic climate, she agreed.

“With this economy, with this crisis, you sign on without thinking about the bottom line,” she said.

As an artist, Bituin considers it a privilege to help bring Yemaya to life.

“I’m not even going to pander to an audience because, luckily, with what I’m seeing, these young people are so thirsty for something new,” she added.

Finding Common Ground Through Storytelling

Speaking further about the play’s emotional impact, Bituin reflected on why the story affected her so deeply.

“It just speaks to me emotionally without trying,” she shared. “Ewan ko. It just told the story. Bakit ganoon ‘yung effect sa akin? Kasi tao tayo eh.”

She explained that regardless of culture or circumstance, many people share similar experiences—whether it’s pursuing a dream, leaving home behind, or redefining what home truly means.

“Kahit ibahin mo ‘yung context, we all go through the same experiences of chasing a dream, losing home, coming to terms with what is home. Pare-pareho tayo ng experience.”

For many Filipino families, these themes may feel especially familiar. Millions of Filipinos have lived through migration, long-distance family relationships, and the sacrifices that often come with seeking better opportunities.

Bituin also pointed out how stories like Yemaya can bridge divides at a time when people often feel disconnected from one another.

“And then you have material like this that brings people together,” she said. “That’s what I love about this material. It speaks to our common humanity.”

Why Families Should Watch Yemaya

When asked why audiences should see the play, Bituin encouraged theatergoers to embrace the unexpected.

“This is something new. You come in, you don’t know what’s going to hit you. And I hope it hits you,” she said. “That’s the experience I want people to have. Come in, take a risk. Take in a story that you don’t know.”

Yemaya opens on June 13 at The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati.

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