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Thursday, February 13, 2025

WICKED Returns to Singapore in 2025: The Must-See Broadway Spectacle


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Singapore is about to be enchanted once again as WICKED, one of Broadway’s most spectacular and beloved musicals, makes its highly anticipated return to the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands. Running from March 19 to April 27, 2025, this limited engagement promises to transport audiences to the magical Land of Oz with its breathtaking set design, unforgettable songs, and a timeless story of friendship, destiny, and the battle between good and evil.


With an acclaimed Australian cast, dazzling special effects, and an award-winning score, this production is set to be one of the biggest theatrical events of the year. Whether you’ve seen it before or are experiencing the magic for the first time, WICKED is a must-watch.


A Story That Has Captivated the World for Over Two Decades

Since its Broadway debut over 20 years ago, WICKED has redefined modern musical theatre, earning over 100 major awards, including three Tony Awards, a Grammy Award, and an Olivier Award. With more than 70 million audience members worldwide, it is now Broadway’s fourth longest-running show.


Based on Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the musical reimagines the world of The Wizard of Oz through a different perspective.


At the heart of the story are Elphaba, an intelligent and fiery young woman born with emerald-green skin, and Glinda, a bubbly and ambitious blonde adored by all. As fate brings them together, the two form an unlikely but deep friendship—until society forces them onto opposing paths. With powerful themes of identity, acceptance, and morality, WICKED is a spellbinding experience that inspires and resonates with audiences of all ages.


Featuring iconic songs like Defying Gravity, Popular, and For Good, this is a musical masterpiece that will leave you breathless.


Meet the Cast: A Spectacular Lineup of Talent

The Singapore production will feature a star-studded Australian cast, bringing fresh energy and emotional depth to these beloved characters:


Courtney Monsma as Glinda – The charming and ambitious young woman who becomes “Glinda the Good.”

Sheridan Adams as Elphaba – The misunderstood girl with incredible power who ultimately becomes the “Wicked Witch of the West.”

Jennifer Vuletic as Madame Morrible – The powerful and manipulative headmistress of Shiz University.

Simon Burke as the Wizard – The enigmatic ruler of Oz with a mysterious past.

Liam Head as Fiyero – The charismatic love interest caught in a dramatic triangle between Glinda and Elphaba.

Paul Hanlon, Chelsea Dean, Kurtis Papadinis, and Zoe Coppinger round out the key supporting roles, alongside a talented ensemble of performers.

With spectacular vocal performances, emotional depth, and high-energy choreography, this cast promises to bring the world of Oz to life like never before.


WICKED in Singapore: Show Details and Ticket Information

Performance Dates: March 19 – April 27, 2025

Venue: Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands


Show Schedule (Singapore Time)

Tuesdays to Fridays: 8:00 PM

Saturdays: 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM

Sundays: 1:00 PM & 6:00 PM

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission


Where to Buy Tickets

Secure your seats now through the following official ticketing platforms:


Marina Bay Sands – www.marinabaysands.com/entertainment/shows/wicked.html

SISTIC – www.sistic.com.sg/events/wicked0425

Klook – www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/124072


Ticket Prices (Excluding Booking Fees)

Prices vary depending on seating choice and performance timing:


Emerald with Souvenir Lanyard tickets are priced at SGD 258 for all performances.

VIP seats range from SGD 208 during off-peak to SGD 238 during peak performances.

A Reserve Centre and A Reserve seats start at SGD 178 off-peak and go up to SGD 208 for peak shows.

B Reserve Centre and B Reserve seats cost SGD 138 off-peak and SGD 168 during peak times.

C Reserve seats are SGD 108 off-peak and SGD 138 during peak periods.

UOB Exclusive Dress Circle and VIP Box (4 seats) range from SGD 208 to SGD 238 and SGD 832 to SGD 952, respectively.

B Reserve Grand Circle seats are SGD 138 off-peak and SGD 168 during peak times, while C Reserve Grand Circle seats cost SGD 98 off-peak and SGD 128 at peak times.

D Reserve Grand Circle seats are SGD 78 across all performances.

Grand Circle Box (4 seats) costs SGD 712 off-peak and SGD 832 during peak performances.

Restricted View seats are the most affordable option at SGD 68 for all shows.


Why You Can’t Miss WICKED in Singapore

This limited-time production of WICKED is more than just a musical—it’s a breathtaking theatrical experience that has captivated audiences across the globe. With its jaw-dropping special effects, powerful music, and emotionally moving performances, this is an event that belongs at the top of your 2025 entertainment calendar.


Whether you’re a devoted fan or discovering the magic for the first time, this is your chance to witness Broadway at its best.


Book Your Tickets Today!

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of the greatest musicals of all time. With tickets already in high demand, secure your seats now before they sell out!


For more updates, follow WICKED Singapore on social media:


Instagram: www.instagram.com/baseasia

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BaseAsia

Get ready to be spellbound—because in 2025, Oz is coming to Singapore!

PHLPost Releases "Perfect Match" Valentine's Stamps of 2025


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



PHLPost’s "Perfect Match" initiative is turning heads and warming hearts this Valentine’s season with a dazzling celebration of Filipino heritage and romance. In a spirited event held at the Lucky Chinatown Atrium on February 12, 2025, at 2:00PM, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) unveiled a special set of stamps and souvenirs that not only commemorate the day of love but also pay homage to the country’s rich tradition of courtship.


The newly released stamps are a visual delight, featuring vibrant illustrations that fuse traditional Filipino courtship practices with beloved local delicacies. Each stamp tells its own love story: from the tender “Liham ng Pag-ibig” (Love Letter) represented by the pairing of Sorbetes and Monay, to the melodic “Pagbigkas ng Tula” (Poetry Recital) symbolized by Kape and Pandesal. Further, the culinary duo of Puto and Dinuguan captures the spirit of “Paninilbihan” (Servitude), while the charming combination of Champorado and Tuyo embodies the essence of “Harana” (Serenade). These creative depictions serve as a nostalgic reminder of the time-honored customs that continue to influence modern Filipino romance 





Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos, speaking at the unveiling, emphasized the enduring role of PHLPost as more than just a postal service. “Our letter and delivery services are a bridge that connects hearts across the globe. Every letter carries a story of love, memories, and unforgettable connections,” he remarked. His words resonated with many, underscoring PHLPost’s commitment to preserving the art of communication, even in today’s digital age.


The significance of this release extends beyond its artistic appeal. PHLPost’s “Perfect Match” stamps are not only collectibles; they are a celebration of Filipino identity and the timeless rituals of courtship. By pairing iconic local foods with classic romantic customs, the stamps encapsulate a unique cultural narrative that appeals to both the young and the young-at-heart. This initiative encourages Filipinos to rediscover and cherish traditional expressions of love—reminding us that in a rapidly changing world, some traditions remain evergreen.


Further amplifying the event’s impact is the thoughtful pricing and accessibility of the stamps. With 10,000 copies printed and sold at an affordable P16 each, this move ensures that the art of love and cultural heritage is accessible to a broad audience. The creative design by in-house graphic artist Ms. Anne Dannielle Gozon adds an extra layer of charm to the stamps, making them prized keepsakes for collectors and romantics alike.


Moreover, as PHLPost continues to evolve its services—bolstering offerings like the Express Mail Service (EMS) and Postal ID—the release of these stamps symbolizes a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. It serves as a testament to the organization's role in not just delivering mail, but also in fostering meaningful connections across the archipelago.


As the buzz from this launch spreads, local media outlets and cultural enthusiasts are celebrating the revival of cherished courtship customs through modern art. PHLPost’s initiative is a heartening reminder that while technology may redefine communication, the sentiments behind a handwritten letter or a thoughtfully designed stamp remain as potent as ever.


In a celebration where tradition meets creativity, the "Perfect Match" Valentine's stamps invite everyone to embrace love in its many forms—a true celebration of Filipino spirit and enduring romance.

DepEd outline strategy to sustain key USAID education programs


Wazzup Pilipinas!?


In response to the recent suspension of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding, the Department of Education (DepEd) of the Philippines has outlined a comprehensive strategy to sustain key educational programs. This move aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted learning for Filipino students.


Background on the Suspension

The suspension of USAID-funded projects, totaling $94 million (approximately Php 4 billion), stems from a broader directive by the U.S. administration to halt foreign aid. This decision has led to significant disruptions in various countries, including the Philippines. In the Philippines, the freeze affects critical initiatives such as ABC+ (Advancing Basic Education in the Philippines), ILO-Ph (Improving Learning Outcomes in the Philippines), and Gabay, which support early-grade literacy, comprehensive assessment frameworks, and specialized assistance for learners with special needs, respectively. 


DepEd's Proactive Measures

To mitigate the impact of the funding suspension, DepEd is implementing a multi-faceted approach:

Resource Optimization: DepEd has requested the proper turnover of project materials from USAID to efficiently utilize existing resources.

Alternative Funding: The department is exploring other funding sources, including engaging with existing and new partners, to support the affected programs.

Curriculum Integration: Strengthening the capacity of the Curriculum and Teaching Strand to incorporate key project interventions into the existing educational framework.

Accelerated Procurement: DepEd has expedited the procurement of textbooks for Grades 2, 5, and 8 to ensure timely delivery for the upcoming school year.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized, "We will exhaust all means to sustain these programs, ensuring that the education of our learners is not disrupted."


Broader Implications of the USAID Suspension

The suspension of USAID funding has had far-reaching consequences beyond the Philippines. Globally, numerous health, education, and humanitarian programs have been halted, affecting millions. In Southeast Asia, for instance, healthcare centers in Myanmar have closed, and demining efforts in Vietnam have been suspended. Analysts warn that this move could diminish U.S. influence in the region, potentially allowing other nations to fill the void left by the withdrawal of aid. 


The Path Forward

Despite these challenges, DepEd remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality education. The department is hopeful that considerations will be made to mitigate the impact of the suspension and is committed to ensuring that educational reforms continue unabated. By leveraging internal resources and seeking alternative partnerships, DepEd aims to uphold the standards of education and support the nation's learners during this transitional period.

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