Actress Janella Salvador is set to fulfill a lifelong dream as she makes her theater debut in “The Art of Breaking Up,” an upcoming stage adaptation of George de Jesus III’s bestselling book “Kung Paano Maghihiwalay.”
Speaking during the production’s media conference, Janella admitted she is both excited and grateful for the opportunity, describing it as a childhood dream.
The actress will portray Lou in the play, which will run from November 6 to December 6, 2026, at the PETA Theater Center.
The role carries special significance for Janella, whose mother, actress-singer Jenine Desiderio, built an acclaimed career on the stage. Jenine portrayed Yvette and later Kim during the original West End run of “Miss Saigon,” giving Janella an early appreciation for theater.
‘Honestly, I’m so excited to begin the process because this has been a dream of mine for more than a… since I was born! I was exposed to my mother doing theater so I really have been waiting for this. It’s a dream come true and hopefully after this I can do more,’ Janella said.
With the play revolving around love and heartbreak, Janella was also asked whether she believes there is a way to make breakups less painful.
The actress offered an honest perspective, saying heartbreak is something people have to experience instead of avoid.
‘That’s possible? Who knows? Honestly. I feel like breakups are meant to be painful. You’re meant to go through it, you’re meant to feel every emotion, and the more you avoid the pain, I think you’re gonna feel it in the end. That’s my take on it,’ she said.
Aside from its emotionally driven story, “The Art of Breaking Up” promises a unique theatrical experience through its theater-in-the-round staging, allowing audiences to watch the performance from every angle.
Director Dudz Teraña said the intimate set-up, combined with George de Jesus III’s dialogue and storytelling, presents both an exciting and demanding challenge for the cast.
Tickets for “The Art of Breaking Up” are now available through TicketWorld.