Our Story
In Cebuano, Bantawan means “stage”. Our journey began with a mission to create a dedicated platform where storytelling, cultural authenticity, and live experiences could connect communities through production excellence. What started as a deep-rooted drive to highlight meaningful narratives, from community performances to vital benefit initiatives like the Healing & Harmony events, has evolved into a full-service creative production company. Now operating as a DBA of Hanz LLC in New York City, we seamlessly blend our rich modern Filipino identity with high-octane NYC creative energy. From technical production and media strategy to artistic direction, we provide the execution needed to elevate every performance, ensuring that culture, creativity, and community always take the stage.
Our Vision
To create impactful productions that connect communities through music, culture, storytelling, and live experiences.
Our Values
Guided by a commitment to creativity, collaboration, cultural authenticity, professional execution, and community impact.
The Creative Core
We are a dedicated collective of artists, technical specialists, and cultural advocates united by a shared vision. Rooted in the spirit of the Cebuano word Bantawan, meaning stage , we combine professional execution with artistic direction to bring authentic narratives to life. Driven by community impact, creativity, and collaboration , our team bridges cultural roots with world-class production standards to deliver unforgettable live experiences.
Hannah Suarez
Director
Hannah Suarez is an internationally trained performer and director whose artistic journey began in the Philippines with NAMCYA and Dulaang UP under legendary mentors Tony Mabesa and Behn Cervantes, eventually earning a Top 10 British Chevening Scholarship nomination. In New York City, she expanded her repertoire as a Soprano 1 with Nashir: The Jewish-American Chorale and as a musical theater soloist in Oh La La Filipinas on Broadway at Symphony Space. Combining her extensive stage experience with a global perspective from graduate studies in International Relations and Healthcare, Hannah now serves as the founder, producer, and director of BANTAWAN Productions under HANZ LLC, where she creates culturally resonant, community-driven performances that celebrate heritage and inspire audiences.
Jean Suarez
Producer
A musician, multi-instrumentalist, software engineer, and entrepreneur. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and a Master of Science in Software Development, with five years of experience developing enterprise-scale technology solutions at Voya Financial. He is the founder of DataGrid New York, a data engineering startup, and serves as Chair of the Board of the New York Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund (NYDRRF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Jean is a proud father to his four daughters—Zee, Ani, Zara, and Huni.
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