STAR-STUDDED CONCERT
Spearheaded by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab and hosted by Jon Santos, the nearly two-hour event featured veteran artists and the new generation of theater stars performing hopeful song pieces to encourage generous hearts to donate for the cause
After months off-stage, the country’s golden voices reunited under the spotlight for At Home with PLDT, a concert fundraiser to equip students, educators and schools for new normal in learning.
Spearheaded by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab and hosted by Jon Santos, the nearly two-hour event featured veteran artists and the new generation of theater stars performing hopeful song pieces to encourage generous hearts to donate for the cause.
Fusing physical and virtual stages
Highlighting the power of strong Internet connection, the well-produced concert rose above prior virtual shows by fusing physical and virtual stages in one event.
The opening salvo was a powerful rendition of “We Are Family” with socially-distanced theater stars. The set design was inspired by a home set up with couches and cozy lighting.
Unleashing the girl power are lovely leading ladies of theater Gab Pangilinan, Larah Maigue, Yanah Laurel and Shiela Valderrama with a zestful rendition of “You’ve Got a Friend.” This was followed by an uplifting version of “Leaves” by theater gents Gian Lacsamana, Arman Ferrer, Floyd Tena and David Ezra.
Lovely duo Gian and Lara also performed I’ll be there which was complemented by Gab’s “With A Smile” from the hit musical Ang Huling El Bimbo.
Meanwhile, the veterans dominated their respective virtual stages starting from Pops Fernandez’s free-spirited version of “Best of My Love.” Fans were thrilled to see a full-blown production with multi-camera and radiating backdrop of Pops’ gorgeous home.
Slaying his hit songs “You Are My Song” and “Forever” was a simple Martin Nievera who performed in front of his home’s wooden staircase.
The two music royalties took the viewers to the memory lane with their soulful duet of “Pagdating ng Panahon.”
Apart from serenading the audience, the stars also took their time to tell their personal lockdown stories and spread awareness on the current situation of the unfortunate individuals with no access to the new normal setup of learning.
And as a cherry on top, real-life couple and music legends Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez graced their own virtual stage with songs “Kailangan Kita,” “On the Wings of Love” and “Hanggang Ngayon.”
Lockdown filled with love
The stars also took time to tell their personal lockdown stories and spread awareness on the current situation of the unfortunate individuals with no access to the new normal setup of learning.
For Mr. C, “This pandemic brought out the best in people. What has emerged is that love still prevails,” which performers unanimously agreed to as they also shared how they appreciate their loved ones more during the pandemic.
Keeping its empowering tone, the event concluded with an inspiring performance of Diana Ross’ “Home” joined by Jon Santos and Mr. C.
Donations for the cause can be made through PLDT Smart Foundation’s PayMaya and bank accounts.