Filipino-Canadian community brings biblical epic ‘The Ten Commandments’ to the stage in Burnaby

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 28, 2026

The Filipino-Canadian community in British Columbia brought a biblical story to life through a stage production of The Ten Commandments, presented by the Philippine Historama Society of BC at the Michael J. Fox Theatre in Burnaby on October 24, 2026.

Led by producer and director Carmelita S. Tapia, the production offered audiences a theatrical retelling of the story of Moses, combining live drama, music, dance and visual elements to revisit one of the Bible’s most enduring narratives.

Tapia and Noel Trinidad directed the production, with choreography by Jehnel Wong and Trinidad. Irene Yatco provided the voice-over narration, while Lawrence portrayed Moses alongside a community ensemble that included members of the Richmond 55+ers.

The production was also supported by the Philippine Canadian Inquirer, which served as a media sponsor and community partner. Through its community coverage and promotional support, PCI helped bring attention to the theatrical event and its role in showcasing Filipino talent in Canada.

Beyond its biblical theme, the staging highlighted the contribution of Filipino community organizations in preserving cultural identity and creating opportunities for artistic expression among immigrants and succeeding generations.

For the Philippine Historama Society of BC, the production was an opportunity to bring people together through a shared cultural and theatrical experience. By combining storytelling with music and choreography, the group offered a community-based interpretation of a familiar religious narrative.

The staging also underscored how Filipino-Canadian performers and organizers continue to sustain the arts outside the Philippines, using theater to strengthen community ties and pass on creative traditions.

With the support of community partners such as PCI, productions like The Ten Commandments demonstrate how local theater can serve not only as entertainment but also as a platform for cultural preservation and Filipino-Canadian storytelling.