Metro Manila: Your Concert and Entertainment Haven

Thinking of how to spend an enjoyable time in Manila? Why not try watching great performances here? You’re in for an unforgettable experience as the metro boasts of concert venues that stage world-class entertainment. Major concerts by local and international artists and bands; theatre plays and musicals; basketball games, boxing, tennis, and other sports activities; circuses and variety shows; and even yearly beauty pageants can be found in this side of the region. Check the list below and head out to the venue that will satisfy your night’s craving for fun and entertainment.

True to its name, Music Museum showcases concerts and musical performances from both accomplished and budding acts in the country. Aside from that, comedy acts and theater plays grace its stage as well. Despite being built in the 80’s, Music Museum definitely does not fall behind its newer counterparts. Even artists themselves attest that it still is one of those Manila concert venues that have excellent sound system.

Address: Greenhills Commercial Center, San Juan City

Why go there? Music Museum is a venue where one could watch great live acts and dine at the same time. It’s located in a complex that houses many dining and shopping opportunities. Look around the many hobby shops, fashion boutiques, and gadget stores there before watching the act you booked for. Take time to look inside the Music Museum the collection of memorabilia that pay homage to the Philippine music and entertainment industry.

This mega-structure beside Manila Bay is one of the country’s biggest concert spots and sports centers. It has a seating capacity of 15,000 while its facilities meet international standards. If you’re looking for some sports entertainment, look no further. It is one of the venues for the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), and International Premier Tennis League. International acts Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, and Cirque Du Soleil, to name a few, have already performed here.

Address: Mall of Asia Complex, Bay City, Pasay City, Philippines

Why go there? The arena’s state-of-the-art-facilities comply with international standards. Whether the event is a concert or a sports game, you’ll surely have the best viewing experience here. Also, attractions such as the Exploreum Science Center, a 55-meter-tall ferris wheel, and an esplanade (where the first World Pyro Olympics was held) are just a stone’s throw away from the arena. It’s best to go there just before night time. Catch the breathtaking view of Manila sunset while you’re there!

Housed inside Resorts World Manila, one of the country’s top casinos, the Newport Performing Arts Theatre is for concerts, theatre plays, and musicals. What more can you ask for from a venue which is equipped with the largest LED screen in Asia, a revolving stage, and high-tech digital audio system? These, along with its plush interior and other top-class facilities, have made the Newport Performing Arts Theatre the favorite stage for both Philippine theatre artists and fans.

Address: Newport Boulevard, Newport City, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines

Why go there? If you’re into major theatre productions, you’ll find yourself a home at the Newport Performing Arts Theatre. Major productions have staged plays here; The King and I, Cinderella, and The Sound of Music, to name a few.

Home of the Philippine Basketball Association, Smart-Araneta Coliseum, or the Big Dome, is also a venue for boxing and even cockfighting. Built in the late ‘50s, it’s still one of the busiest arenas in the country hosting concerts, pageants, musical shows, and circuses . It was for a time, the biggest indoor venue in Asia. Despite losing the title of largest dome in Asia in 2001, the Coliseum is still a favorite among sports organizations and entertainment companies. Fans always fill the place what with the diversity of shows and sports activities held there every night!

Address: General Araneta, Cubao, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Why go there? The Smart-Araneta Coliseum is one of the busiest venues in the country. Whether you are looking for a competitive sport to watch or a night of music entertainment it sure has one for you. Found in one of the busiest business hubs in the metro, four malls and dozens of restaurants can be found within the vicinity. Cubao Expo, a venue filled with art, thrift, and antique shops, is just a few walks away.

If you are looking for a night filled with art and culture, there’s no place to go but the Cultural Center of the Philippines. It is, undoubtedly, the home of Philippine arts and performances. It is home not only to music and dance performances, but also to theatre plays, films, art shows, and even literary events. Aside from that, if you’re into meaningful forums and fun workshops, then this is definitely the place to go! Built in the ‘60s, the CCP is a living testament to what Philippine art and culture is about.

Address: CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Magdalena Jalandoni, Malate, Pasay, Metro Manila

Why go there? There’s more than just one stage and theatre here in CCP. You can find different shows in different stages. There’s the CCP Main Theatre, Little Theatre, and Dream Theatre, to name a few. Manila’s reliable hotels are also within CCP’s reach. If your schedule is tight or if you just want to maximize your visit, you can also take advantage of CCP’s guided tour!