Star Powerhouse

Lukas Graham has released his latest single, “Good Times,” the heartfelt title track and opening song from his upcoming 13-track album of the same name, arriving August 14 through Virgin Music Group and Universal Music. Blending Celtic influences, folk traditions, and Lukas Graham’s signature soulful storytelling, “Good Times” introduces listeners to a deeply personal chapter in the Danish artist’s musical journey. The uplifting track celebrates connection, memories, family, and the meaningful moments that shape a person’s life. The official music video for “Good Times” complements the song’s nostalgic spirit by featuring archival footage from Lukas Graham’s journey before and during his rise to international fame. The visual tribute highlights the friendships, family bonds, and experiences that have influenced his career and artistic identity. Lukas Graham Returns to His Musical Roots With “Good Times” Album The upcoming album Good Times represents a return to Lukas Graham’s earlies...

For Serena Magiliw, the camera and the stage are both platforms for performance and battlegrounds for visibility. The Manila-based independent actor, director, and cultural worker recently completed the highly competitive program The Master Series: Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Acting Workshop for Filipino Talents 2026.  While the selection marks a significant milestone in her career, it also underscores Magiliw’s evolution into a multidisciplinary force disrupting traditional power structures through raw, queer, and trans-centered storytelling. Her artistic foundation is deeply rooted in academic and cultural exploration. She studied Filipinology at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and has blended transmedia narrative techniques with institutional critique. Magiliw’s portfolio features critical performance research, including her piece “Rampa” for the Asian Performing Arts Camp 2021 and a directorial stint for the Tokyo Festival Farm 2022 Farm-La...

Laguna’s homegrown theatrical production is heading to Quezon City. Following a successful launch in Biñan last December, “Mapanakit! Mga Dulang Bittersweet” will be staged at the KAL-IBG Theater, University of the Philippines Diliman, marking a major landmark for YPC Stage as the group officially brings its maiden touring production outside its home province. Audiences can catch the regular weekend runs at either 2 p.m. or 7 p.m. on July 25 (opening) and July 26, August 1, 2, 8, and 9. A special gala performance is also scheduled for August 7 at 7 p.m. The production weaves together three distinct one-act plays exploring themes of love, boundaries, and hidden truths. Directed by BJ Borja and penned by acclaimed playwright Eljay Castro Deldoc, “Mapanakit!” explores the complex textures of shared human experiences such as heartbreak, longing, and healing. Emerging regional performers and seasoned veterans collaborate in the production. In “Ang Liknayan ng Ating mga Katawan,” a tense ...

  The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), through its Artist Training Division under the Arts Education Department, once again opens applications for Batch 14 of the CCP Kabataang Gitarista (KG) Program until August 25, 2026. An initiative designed for young musicians, the program provides FREE weekly classical guitar training that fosters understanding of the instrument and its repertoire. Open to public high school students in the National Capital Region (NCR), the CCP KG program seeks aspiring classical guitarists in Grades 7, 8, or 9 who are eager to develop their skills. Applicants must be willing to commit to weekly training sessions on Saturdays at the CCP Annex Building and to dedicate time to self-practice on weekdays outside regular training hours. They must also be able to bring a nylon-stringed guitar to the lessons. Interested applicants may complete and submit the online application form (through this link: https://tinyurl.com/ApplicationFormB14 ) on or before A...

Two student film projects from Far Eastern University Department of Communication have been selected as finalists in the 38th Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Gawad Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video or Gawad Alternatibo. “Ibong Yabi” and “Kahel” represent two distinct styles, spanning compelling documentary storytelling and inventive musical narratives. Directed by Mark Jomil Reyes, “Ibong Yabi” is a short documentary that delves into the lived realities of Mangyan Alangan women who assume the role of primary breadwinners for their households. Through the personal narratives of Lybelyn and Diana, the film exposes the systemic hurdles and restricted economic avenues available to the community. The documentary covers their daily survival strategies, ranging from traditional “kaingin” farming and crafting “walis tingting” to taking on irregular manual labor. Ultimately, the film serves as a testament to empowerment, highlighting the strength and aspirations of Mangyan w...

Cup Of Joe made a historic mark on the international stage at the second annual MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN (MAJ) 2026, held on Saturday, June 13, at the prestigious Toyota Arena Tokyo. Cup of Joe receives Special Award: Philippine Popular Music at MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026 Representing the Philippines, the band was nominated for the major Best Song Asia category for their hit single "Multo" and took home the Special Award: Philippine Popular Music. Adding to the milestone, Cup Of Joe delivered a captivating live performance of "Multo" during the afternoon’s Premiere Ceremony, earning massive praise from the international crowd. Organized by the Japan Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA), MAJ 2026 was guided by its mission of “Connecting with the World and Illuminating the Future of Music.” This year's event spotlighted a highly sophisticated regional scene, celebrating standout entries from Southeast Asian artists alongside the Philippines, inc...