Why Poppert Bernadas chose coach Sarah

BERNADAS AND GERONIMO. Tough decision

He has since landed coveted roles in the stage musicals, “Lorenzo,” “Katy!” and “Rak of Aegis,” which is being restaged at Peta from Dec. 5-14.

This year, Poppert is facing another exciting challenge—as a contestant in the second season of “The Voice of the Philippines.”

Why did he choose Sarah Geronimo over Lea Salonga, Bamboo or Apl.de.ap for his coach? Poppert explains, “To be honest, it wasn’t easy. True, my decision to choose Sarah over Lea surprised a lot of people, because of my theater background (he debuted in the 2010 revival of “Magsimula Ka,” playing its male lead).

“I’m sure I would’ve learned a lot from Lea—but, then again, I already have similarly formidable mentors like Sir NUT, Isay Alvarez and Robert Seña guiding me in the field of theater, and Mr. C (Ryan Cayabyab) in music. With Sarah behind me, I could broaden my performing horizons even more!

“I chose Sarah because I’ve seen her grow as a performer—from ‘Star for a Night,’ to her impressive transformation into the confident singer-actress she is today. With the help of young and dynamic composers like Yumi and Thyro, may sarili na s’yang tunog!

“I admit I watch her movies, and I’m a fan. I have actually worked with her twice (in events)—but, during the Blind auditions, when she turned her chair and faced me, I was star-struck—not because of how big a star she has become, but because she has remained humble and down-to-earth in spite of it!”

What has he learned from “The Voice,” so far? Pop’s quick reply, “A good warm-up is crucial, because you’re only given one shot to impress the coaches. I get to interact with people who have interesting stories to tell—nakakatuwa!

“The show has also taught me to believe in myself. The other contestants are just as talented—so, if you aren’t confident about what you set out to do, your worst enemy could be—yourself!”