RIEHATA and SB19 Lead "STELLA DANCE JAM" for 70 Years of PH-Japan Friendship

© Cinegeeks Podcast/Concertgeeks PH/Roy Remorca

The intersection of world-class choreography and P-pop royalty is coming to Manila. To commemorate the 2026 Japan-Philippines Friendship Year, the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) has officially announced STELLA DANCE JAM (SDJ)—a landmark dance performance featuring Japanese dance sensation RIEHATA and the Philippines’ own SB19.

The event marks the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. Under the theme "Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, and Possibilities," this collaboration aims to deepen the cultural affinity between the two nations through the universal language of movement.

A Powerhouse Collaboration

Fans have long awaited a formal stage collaboration between RIEHATA and SB19.

RIEHATA, known globally for her work with icons like Chris Brown, BTS, and BLACKPINK’s Lisa, has been a pivotal force in the international dance scene. Joining her is SB19—the multi-awarded quintet (Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin) that has consistently broken global records, including their historic Billboard Music Awards nomination and their recent chart-topping EP Simula at Wakas.

Nurturing the Next Generation

Beyond the main headliners, STELLA DANCE JAM is a platform for emerging talent. Young dancers—referred to as "Stellas" (rising stars)—selected through rigorous auditions in both Japan and the Philippines will share the stage with these world-class artists.

Audition Schedule:

• Davao: April 25, 2026

• Manila: April 26, 2026

  
  

Event Details & Ticketing

The two-day event will take place at The Theatre at Solaire, featuring a stacked lineup of special performers:

• Dates: Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21, 2026

• Venue: The Theatre at Solaire, Manila

• Performers:

• June 20: SB19 & RIEHATA (with RHT*)

• June 21: XONARA / J2X & RIEHATA (with RHT*)

• RHT is a dance collective trained by RIEHATA.

Admission: This is a ticketed event (Paid Admission). Ticket purchase is limited to individuals aged 18 and above. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale via TICKETWORLD on May 23, 2023 (subject to change).

Project Partners

STELLA DANCE JAM is organized by The Japan Foundation, Manila, co-organized by the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, and supported by JTI Philippines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and 1Z Entertainment. Production support is provided by Nippon Television AX-ON Inc., with photo and video co-production by First Light Studios (FLS).

Stay tuned to Cinegeeks for more updates on this historic cultural crossover!