‘King’ of the world

staging of “Saigon”; Valdez played the Engineer in a succeeding production.)

He is also reunited with stage director Freddie Santos in this play. “He is one of the hardest working directors I know. I’m delighted to work with him again so soon after ‘Broadway Showstoppers,’ my concert in Resorts World last year.”

The kids in the show have also charmed Valdez. “They’re adorable on- and off-stage. They blew me away. Not one kid is a fraction off when they sing together. They are so smart. The kids alone are already worth the price of admission.”

Precious advice

He offered precious advice to budding performers. “It is the love of the craft that will see them through. There are no small roles as everyone is part of a whole. If they become a big star, they should never forget why they went into the performing arts in the first place.”

He added: “Also, they should respect coworkers, big or small. Lastly, talent will out, but to achieve excellence, there is absolutely no substitute for hard work.”

Although he has performed all over the world, nothing beats a “rousing ovation” from his countrymen, he said.

“Filipinos are among the best (if not the best) audiences in the world. You have to up your ante because Filipinos are musically discerning. It’s challenging, but rewarding if you’re able to impress the local crowd,” he asserted.

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