Led by acclaimed actor-director Andoy Ranay in the emotionally complex role of Mary Girard, 13th of September is set to showcase Filipino theatre on the global stage (Photo: BOGT Philippines)
Cover Led by acclaimed actor-director Andoy Ranay in the emotionally complex role of Mary Girard, ‘13th of September’ is set to showcase Filipino theatre on the global stage (Photo: BOGT Philippines)
Led by acclaimed actor-director Andoy Ranay in the emotionally complex role of Mary Girard, 13th of September is set to showcase Filipino theatre on the global stage (Photo: BOGT Philippines)

BOGT Philippines announces that its production of ‘13th of September’ will head to Monaco, marking a significant milestone for Filipino artistry on the global stage

The Insanity of Mary Girard dramatises the true, tragic story of Mary Lum Girard, a Philadelphia woman institutionalised by her husband, and unreasonably held in an asylum for 25 years. Through psychological symbolism and ritualised staging, the play explores themes of control, identity and the silencing of women. 

BOGT Philippines reimagines this narrative in their adaptation, 13th of September, offering a powerful Filipino perspective on Lanie Robertson’s original work.

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Tatler Asia
The official poster for BOGT Philippines' '13th of September'
Above The official poster for BOGT Philippines’ ‘13th of September’
The official poster for BOGT Philippines' '13th of September'

Led by acclaimed actor-director Andoy Ranay in the emotionally complex role of Mary Girard, 13th of September is set to showcase Filipino theatre on the global stage. After successful appearances at festivals in Canada (2019) and Germany (2021, 2022), BOGT Philippines will make its highly anticipated debut at the prestigious 18th Mondial du Théâtre in Monaco, taking place from August 20 to 27, 2025. 

This marks the first time the Philippines will participate in this esteemed quadrennial festival since its founding in 1957.

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Lao Rodriguez as First Fury in 13th of September (Photo: BOGT Philippines)
Above Lao Rodriguez as First Fury in ‘13th of September’ (Photo: BOGT Philippines)
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Drew Espenocilla as Second Fury in '13th of September' (Photo: BOGT Philippines)
Above Drew Espenocilla as Second Fury in ‘13th of September’ (Photo: BOGT Philippines)
Lao Rodriguez as First Fury in 13th of September (Photo: BOGT Philippines)
Drew Espenocilla as Second Fury in '13th of September' (Photo: BOGT Philippines)

13th of September is an adaptation by three-time Palanca awardee Eljay Castro Deldoc. The production features a groundbreaking reimagined staging under the direction of ALIW and LEAF awardee Riki Benedicto, whose internationally recognised work has garnered multiple awards.

The play explores profound and timely themes, addressing empowerment, injustice, power dynamics and the complexities of mental health. Motivated by genuine passion, the BOGT Philippines delegation is eager to share this work with audiences worldwide.

The nine-member delegation includes producers Katreen Dela Cruz (Production and Stage Manager), JayLo Conanan (Production Designer), Roldan Lozano (Lighting Designer) and Ces Valera (Projection Designer), all of whom will join the team travelling to Monaco this August.

BOGT Philippines is an independent, non-profit theatre company founded in 2019 by a group of professional theatre, events, and film practitioners from Manila. Its mission is to create and produce performances for international festivals and to amplify the visibility of Philippine theatre on the world stage.

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Jove Moya
Senior Feature Writer, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets. 

When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.