A Filipino musical adaptation of the romance-fantasy play “Ondine” by Jean Giraudoux will be staged in April 2025.

The UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe is set to make a grand stage entrance on their first-ever contemporary dance musical on April 10 and 11 at the Albertus Magnus Auditorium.

Apart from the traditional dance performances that Salinggawi presents, “Ondine: Ang Nimfa ng Lawa” brings a Filipino twist to the story of a water nymph who falls in love with a knight and experiences magic and pain.

“This year’s concert transforms that timeless story into a contemporary dance musical set in a Filipino context…It’s Ondine but with Pinoy soul and Salinggawi’s signature flair,” Salinggawi representatives told TomasinoWeb.

The dance troupe’s artistic director Robert Biadoma envisioned staging the musical while he watched a performance at the Philippine High School for the Arts over 20 years ago.

They revealed that the musical is about love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams in a world that often feels unforgiving.

“Through the power of dance and music, “Ondine” brings to life the beauty of love, the pain of unfulfilled desires, and the inner conflict we face when our dreams collide with the harshness of reality,” Salinggawi shared.

Renowned Tanghalang Pilipino senior company member, JV Ibesate, is the dramaturg, while Daniel San Miguel is the composer adding a “distinct cultural flavor” and “emotional depth of the narrative,” respectively.

Salinggawi said they were challenged to create an adaptation that reflects the Thomasian identity.

“The challenge lies in creating a Filipino adaptation of Ondine that stays true to the original while making it uniquely Thomasian,” they said.

“It’s a bold experiment in melding theater, dance, and music, and we are proud to present a truly original production that celebrates both our heritage and creativity,” Salinggawi added.

Performances are scheduled for 9 a.m., 1 p.m., and 5 p.m. on April 10. On April 11, the first two shows will follow the same schedule, with the final show being a gala night at 6 p.m.