And just like that, I am back at work.
A couple of corporate gigs are scheduled this week and a couple more next week, plus preparations for “The Voice Kids.” Needless to say, I’m excited about all of these. I get to work with some amazing people, and meet some amazingly talented children for our little TV show.
But first, a little diversion and fun.
My family received an invitation from young Bella Alejandro to attend her “Frozen”-themed birth anniversary party. Bella is the daughter of Nino and Michelle Alejandro. Nino was on my team in the last season of “The Voice of the Philippines.”
The invited girls had the option of dressing up in costume; Nicole chose to wear a T-shirt, leggings and very sensible sneakers. I asked why, and she replied, “There are going to be games.” That’s one smart girl who wouldn’t be encumbered by silk and taffeta.
It was a wise decision, as several activities required participants to get up and move, like a “Frozen” storytelling and sing-along session (everyone knew the lyrics of “Let It Go” by heart), a scavenger hunt, a trampoline and a swimming pool. As soon as I saw the pool, I had a feeling Nicole would end up in it.
Thank goodness our house wasn’t far away; I had extra clothes brought over mid-party.
To the Alejandros and Katigbaks, thank you all so much for having us over. We all had a wonderful time!
Kids, too
Speaking of kids… “The Voice Kids Season 2” starts a new search for amazing voices at the end of this month, when we begin taping.
I’ve stayed in touch with a few staff members, and they tell me that the kids (ages 7-13) in this batch are impressive.
After the experience of our maiden season, I hope they’re right.
They’ve gone into far-flung areas of the country in the pursuit of talent. Not staying within the confines of the metropolis is a good thing; the talent pool needs to be expanded. I am excited to meet the kids at Blind Auditions. I have a feeling this will be one great season.
To everyone who auditioned and made it to Blinds, congratulations! To those who still have to try out, I wish you the best of luck. Most importantly, have yourself a great time, no matter what happens.
Heavy hitters
And finally… it’s not often that I find myself in a gig, sharing the stage with amazing performers. This week, we are celebrating
Oscar M. Lopez’s 85th birth anniversary with some heavy hitters: Audie Gemora, Joanna Ampil and the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra (under the baton of Gerard Salonga).
Audie and I have worked together a few times before. The first show we ever did was “The Best of Broadway” revue by Repertory Philippines, followed by “The Rose Tattoo,” “Annie,” and “The Sound of Music.” Most recently, we performed at the opening of The Theatre at Solaire (where he serves as director for entertainment).
As for Joanna, we’ve worked in the same shows before, but we’ve never actually sung together. Needless to say, I’m very excited to finally do so. Jo is currently in rehearsals for the film version of “Larawan” (also starring Rachel Alejandro as Paula to Jo’s Candida). This should be quite a feat, and I’m looking forward to seeing it.
This week’s show features other theater mainstays such as Mayen Bustamante, Stella Cañete, Fred Lo, Jun Ofrasio and Topper Fabregas, as they perform excerpts from “Undaunted,” a musical based on Oscar Lopez’s life and work.
To everyone participating in the show, let’s all break some legs and have ourselves a fantastic time!