Maja-Cat showdowns, more guest interactions on ‘Sunday Noontime Live’
Beyond song and dance performances that are a staple of Sunday noontime shows, the hosts of Brightlight Productions’ “Sunday Noontime Live” promise a different flavor by spotlighting not only the talent of their guests, but also the stories behind their craft and artistry.
Debuting 12 noon today on TV5, “Sunday Noontime Live” is directed by ABS-CBN star-maker Johnny “Mr. M.” Manahan who assembled Kapamilya A-listers Piolo Pascual and Maja Salvador, along with Miss Universe 2018 and recording artist Catriona Gray, Donny Pangilinan and Jake Ejercito to host a musical variety show that will go head to head with ABS-CBN’s “ASAP Natin ‘To” and GMA Network’s “All-out Sundays.”
“Sunday Noontime Live” can also be viewed on its same day catch-up airing at 8 pm on Colours Channel 202 HD and Channel 60 SD on Cignal TV.
“I’m excited because if in previous shows, viewers saw more of my dancing, this time they’ll get to see my other hidden talents. So may mga showdown kami ni Miss Catriona,” said Maja, who remarked in jest that she was glad how Catriona, Donny and Jake were considerate of the limitations of her English speaking skills.
The comparisons to her former show “ASAP” are inevitable, but Maja gets comfort from the fact that these competing programs have the same goal of providing diversion for people at home.
“At the end of the day, we just all want to entertain and give happiness which we need in this time of a pandemic,” said Maja during a virtual media conference. “It’s also good that viewers have more choices.”
If the dance floor diva is feeling any sort of pressure, it’s the thought of the production asking her to do song numbers.
For Catriona, she is looking forward to getting up close and personal with the guests. “This will be one of my challenging undertakings this year, and I think that’s a very good thing as an artist. I feel it’s super important to put yourself in positions where you are greatly challenged because that’s how growth happens. So yes, I’ve been researching, also studying different songs since I’m not only hosting here. But I’m also looking forward to getting to know the guest artists. I really enjoy that aspect, having that opportunity to get to know other people.”
Donny, who began as a MYX VJ and had hosting stints for ASAP Chill-out and iWant ASAP, he sees “Sunday Noontime Live” as a new platform to showcase his talent and hone his hosting. Describing the show as fun, energetic, and youth-oriented, he feels blessed “that I get to be with this amazing group. I’m very open to learn from those who came before me.”
As for Jake, the offer to join the show was a surprise for him, and he is treating his first try at hosting a variety show as a challenge.
“To be able to work with such talented and brilliant artists is such a thrill for me. I’m in good company and the fact that it’s directed by no less than Mr. M, I’m just looking forward to having a fun experience,” said Jake.
“Admittedly it’s been a long road that’s led me here. Both my parents were in the industry and like anyone, as a kid, I always wanted to be like my dad. But I’ve always been reluctant and I was based abroad. I was doing stuff before and the timing was never right. Now that I’m back home, everything’s in place and I’ve found the right balance. That’s how I found myself here now.”
Another Brightlight Productions block timer debuting today is “Sunday Kada,” a comedy show directed by Edgar Mortiz featuring Jayson Gainza, Ritz Azul, Wacky Kiray, Miles Ocampo, Daniel Matsunaga, Jerome Ponce, Josh Colet, Sunshine Garcia, Jhen Maloles, and Badji Mortiz. It will air 3-4 pm after the romancedrama series “I Got You.”
Premiering tomorrow is “Lunch Out Loud,” a noontime variety show hosted by Billy Crawford, Alex Gonzaga, Wacky Kiray, K Brosas, Bayani Agbayani, KC Montero and Macoy Dubs. It will air Mondays to Saturdays, 12 noon to 2 pm.
Then from 4-5 pm on Saturday, Oct. 24, Korina SanchezRoxas’ “Rated Korina,” a long-running news magazine and lifestyle show, will begin airing stories from various walks of life.– VAB