Waynehart Claire Geonzon
For her charming rendition of the Michael Jackson classic, “Ben,” Waynehart Claire Geonzon, a contestant in the third season of the reality-based singing contest, “The Voice Kids,” has been invited to perform in the “The Ellen De Generes Show” next year.
The 7-year-old singer’s mother, Marie, said one of Ellen’s assistants called her about three weeks ago asking if Claire, who was in judge-coach Lea Salonga’s top eight, could perform the same song for the American television host-comedian in March or April 2017.
“I was speechless…The staff member told me that Ellen really watched ‘The Voice Kids’ and monitored other viral videos of Filipino talents. The assistant added that Claire’s performance touched Ellen’s soul,” Marie told the Inquirer at a press conference for the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp 5, an online talent development program.
The “Ellen” show originally set Claire’s appearance for this month, but had to reschedule because she did not have a passport. “Fortunately, they gave us another slot…A program representative will fly in to help us with the process,” said Marie, who first noticed her daughter’s knack for music during the child’s kindergarten graduation.
Asked how she felt that Ellen wanted to see her in person, Claire said she was “surprised and very happy.” “My mom cried. I watch ‘Ellen’ every day…I will say, ‘Thank you!’” said the young performer.
“I hope she likes my singing,” added Claire, also an alumna of the “i-Shine” competition and who will join the growing list of Filipino artists that have guested on “Ellen,” like Charice, Arnel Pineda, Rhap Salazar and Zendee Rose Tenerefe.
Although Claire was eliminated after the Sing-offs of “The Voice Kids,” her participation in the talent search opened many doors for her. “She was offered a scholarship by OB Montessori in Greenhills. She’s set to have a covers album soon, as well as a solo show next year,” Marie said. “In our hearts, Claire is a winner, too.”