Erik Santos
Given the chance, Erik Santos, who starred in the local staging of “The Little Mermaid” six years ago, said he would love to perform in musical theater again, because the experience was different from what he usually did.
“You don’t just sing. You use a different placement for your voice, and everything is measured and studied. I learned a great deal about discipline and hard work. It also made me respect the craft a lot more,” he told reporters at a recent press conference.
Does he see himself deviating from his chosen career path, like fellow singing competition graduates Rachelle Ann Go and Mark Bautista? According to Erik, he still feels that pop music is his rightful place in the entertainment biz.
“I believe that this is what I do best—performing ballads and pop tunes. But, if there’s a good project in theater, that would be a great blessing,” the 34-year-old balladeer said. “For now, the goal is to achieve longevity in this industry, where new talents are always coming up.”
Venturing into concert directing—one of Erik’s longtime dreams—is perhaps more of a possibility. And he’s starting to dabble in it with his coming solo show, “Erik Santos Sings the Greatest OPM Hits,” which will be held on April 7 at The Theatre at Solaire (call 891-9999).
The concert, he said, would be “extra-special,” because he was the one who came up with the concept, and would be calling the shots. “I’m thrilled about this project. I’m not only performing; I’ll also be directing. I’m involved in the entire process. I even wrote the spiels,” related Erik, who used to direct school plays back in high school and college.
“I have always been interested in what goes on behind the scenes during shows … However, I didn’t get the opportunity to try it after turning professional. But after becoming a mentor to budding singers in the singing contest ‘We Love OPM’ last year, I was inspired once again,” he said.
His first directorial job had been stressful but also fulfilling, he confessed. “There’s pressure. But we have to step out of our comfort zone every so often to grow as an artist,” the singer said, who recalled saving up his money when he was younger so he could attend the concerts of his favorite artists, like Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano.
Would he consider directing a show for rumored girlfriend Angeline Quinto? “That would be nice. It would be easier, because I know her so well,” he pointed out. “I’d also love to do concerts for my other singer friends, like Sarah Geronimo.”
Another first for Erik in this concert—mounted by Lucky 7 Koi Productions—is that he will be delivering an all-OPM repertoire, which includes “hugot” hits and spruced-up versions of the classic tunes of Willy Cruz, George Canseco, Rey Valera and other celebrated songwriters.