Veteran singer and actress Celeste Legaspi will take on the role of Older Allie in the Philippine staging of The Notebook: The Musical, Theatre Group Asia announced on Sunday, during Mother’s Day.

The 76-year-old performer, widely regarded as a pillar of Philippine performing arts, joins the production as it prepares for its local run, bringing decades of experience across television, music, and theater to the role.

The production team described Legaspi’s casting as a defining addition, noting her ability to convey “warmth, wisdom and quiet strength” — qualities central to the character of Older Allie, who anchors the story’s emotional core.

Best known for her iconic song “Mamang Sorbetero,” among others, Legaspi said she is drawn to the complexity of the musical’s characters.

“The characters in ‘The Notebook’ are interesting, how it shows their growth and learnings,” she said.

She acknowledged the demands of portraying the role, adding: “To be able to portray that is a challenge.”

Legaspi also highlighted the musical’s score, describing it as both contemporary and emotionally intricate.

“As I study the music of Older Allie, I learn that the music is modern and exacting; at the same time, I will need to get to the heart of her,” she said.

Based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, “The Notebook” follows the enduring love story of Allie and Noah across decades, exploring memory, devotion, and the passage of time.

Legaspi is joined by OPM icon Morissette Amon as Middle Allie, with Sheena Belarmino taking on the role of Young Allie.

The Philippine staging anticipated in September marks the latest international adaptation of the popular romance, with Legaspi’s casting expected to draw audiences familiar with her longstanding contributions to the local arts scene.