Insider Spotlight
Through a partnership with GMG Productions, the bank is giving its credit and debit cardholders first access to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The Musical,” reinforcing its push beyond traditional banking into premium entertainment perks.
The presale runs from Jan. 12 to 15, 2026, giving UnionBank cardholders a 10-percent discount on tickets ahead of the general public.
The show is scheduled for a July 2026 run at The Theatre at Solaire, one of the country’s premier venues for large-scale productions.
Why it matters
Banks are increasingly competing on lifestyle relevance, not just financial products. By anchoring its presale around a globally recognized musical, UnionBank positions its cards as access tools to experiences that are otherwise limited or harder to secure.
The big picture
The musical gained worldwide attention during the pandemic after becoming a viral hit on TikTok, eventually launching a multi-year international tour spanning Asia, North America, Australia, and Europe.
Bringing the production to Manila allows UnionBank to tap into pent-up demand for live entertainment while aligning with globally popular cultural moments.
What they’re saying
“We’re committed to giving our customers exclusive access to more world-class theatrical productions with our partnership with GMG Productions. We’re delighted to open the new year with an exclusive pre-sale access to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The Musical, as part of the lineup of shows our cardholders can look forward to this 2026," the bank said in a press release on Jan. 12, 2026.
By the numbers
Cardholders receive 10 percent off ticket purchases during the presale window, using either UnionBank credit or debit cards. The offer is positioned as a value-added perk rather than a mass discount, underscoring its exclusivity.
What’s next
This presale builds on UnionBank’s entertainment collaborations in 2025, which included productions such as “Come from Away and Dear Evan Hansen.”
Looking ahead, the bank has flagged more large-scale shows, including “Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular” and “Jesus Christ Superstar,” as part of its upcoming slate.
For UnionBank, the presale is less about a single show and more about strengthening its curated experiences ecosystem—using early access, priority booking, and exclusive privileges to keep cardholders engaged well beyond everyday transactions. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
