"Pinocchio" Children's Musical Opens on August 16

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In celebration of its 22 years of producing well-loved musicals for children of all ages, Repertory Philippines Theater for Young Audiences proudly announces a richly imaginative offering with the staging of
“PINOCCHIO” - the story of a familiar wooden puppet who wants to become a real boy whose nose grew when he told a lie.

Originally written as a serial in 1881, Le avventure di Pinocchio (The Adventures of Pinocchio), its popularity was given a boost when Walt Disney made it into a popular 1940 animated film. The story has been filmed many other times, including a 2002 live-action version starring 50-year-old Oscar-winner Roberto Benigni as Pinocchio.

The contemporary celebration of PINOCCHIO has been newly adapted for today’s young audiences in this award-winning musical based on the Book by Carlo Collodi, Adaptation and Lyrics by Jim Eiler; and Music by Jim Eiler and Jeanne Bargy.

Set in Italy, this version tells the beloved tale of Pinocchio, a boy-sized puppet built by the caring puppet maker, Geppetto. Knowing of his longing for a son, the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life as a reward for Geppetto's remarkably generous spirit. Pinocchio is told by the Blue Fairy that if he always obeys his father, she will turn him into a real boy. But the best laid plans can sometimes go awry and Pinocchio's boyish longings leads him away from his father and on an adventure unlike any other. From the Land of The Toys to the belly of a whale, Pinocchio learns that no love is greater than that of a parent for a child.

Ms. Joy Virata, artistic director of Repertory Philippines Therater for Young Audiences will direct PINOCCHIO. This marks her third time to direct this musical since it was produced in 1996 and 2004 respectively.

The Secret Behind Better Ingredients, Better Pizza

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Papa John’s offers sumptuous pizzas that will definitely score a high five. Do you ever wonder why Papa John’s is one of the best Pizza Restaurants?

Here are at least five reasons why:

1) The Dough - When was the last time you ordered pizza, which came with real dough (and not biscuit)? Or when was the last time you ordered pizza that wasn't oily? Minus good dough pizza isn't a pizza.

Papa John's dough is baked fresh. It's hot, it's soft, and it's chewy - nice!

2) Ingredients - Pizzas are topped with generous servings, while pastas and sides ooze with flavor - the merry mix of ingredients feel like they dance on your palate.

They say they are "Better Pizza. Better Ingredients". Must be. It really does make a difference when ingredients are fresh. You'd see and taste it.

3) Pizza Variety - "Super Papa" is Papa John's top of the line with the combination of pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, sliced mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives. This one's "all-in" so it's the first one you must try.

Ross Del Rosario Awarded as Best Choice Influential Social Media Evangelist

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I never thought your friendly neighborhood pambansang blogger will be recognized for my efforts in social media. All along I was thinking of Wazzup Pilipinas to emerge as leading and influential. The announcement came in as a surprise, and of all the days, it came on a weekend when I was so overwhelmed with many projects and deadlines. An email was going to be the one to cheer me up that day.

The email states: "Kindly see attached Congratulatory Letter from Best Choice Awards council conferring YOU as BEST CHOICE INFLUENTIAL SOCIAL MEDIA EVANGELIST. Awards ceremonies will be on July 25, 2014, 6:45PM at CROWNE PLAZA, Ortigas Avenue Ext.,Cor. Asian Development Bank Ave., Pasig City Philippines."

Was I dreaming? I've worked for several years in the IT industry for several years but I have never won an award. Recognized yes,,,,,but actually winning an award complete with trophies and plaque along with other prominent people is ...Wow!!! Fascinating!!!

After all the wards like Top Emerging Influential of 2013 down to the latest of which was the Best Filipino Community Blog Site of 2014, I never expected to wn an award that is dedicated to me instead.

Wazzup Pilipinas Bloggers as Special Guests of Radyo Inquirer

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We will be having a radio show soon at Radyo Inquirer DZIQ 990 AM. But before we set foot on that next chapter of our lives as a blogger,  we are guesting first on Vigattin Radio show to talk about our life as a blogger and to introduce our upcoming radio show that will be anchored by real life bloggers themselves.

Every blogger who is a member of the Wazzup Pilipinas online community will be given a chance to be put on the spotlight to talk about his or her blogging adventure This opportunity is a great way to promote the bloggers' advocacy and aspirations as well.

If you're not yet a member of the Wazzup Pilipinas community then this is the right time to join us and get the chance to have presence not just online but on air!

A fellow blogger has also gave us notice that we will also be invited to guest on a television show soon.

Great things are happening to Wazzup Pilipinas as we continue to level up and embrace all opportunities for media presence.

Please stay tune tomorrow between 10 to 11 am at Radyo Inquirer DZIQ 990 AM radio.

If you want to be greeted on air, just post a comment here and we will mention your names and messages.

@MsCrisAlbert : Happy Birthday to the Woman Behind FILA Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Happy Birthday to the woman of style and substance, of sole and soul,  - no other than Cris Albert, President and CEO of Fila Philippines.

Cris Albert may seem like a girl with fairy princess dreams, or perhaps a carefree sprite with tireless energy, or maybe a queen with whimsical indulgences, a playful woman with girlish tastes, bouts of whimsy and a penchant for everything pretty. But at the helm of the Fila Philippines is a woman that can blaze a trail both in the market and as an empowered woman.

Fila Philippines has ramped up not only its footwear and apparel but also its branding. Its presence is now strongly felt in elite sports such as polo and regatta, followed by rugby when they got the Philippine Volcanoes as endorsers, and then figure skating with Michael Christian Martinez, and most recently Ducati motorbike racing with the ATAT Racing Team.

Miss Albert explains that Fila’s marketing statement is to be both affordable and aspirational.  “We have to keep image high. Consumers should feel confident about what they wear without having to spend too much or buy fake goods,” says Albert.

Happy Birthday Miss Cris Albert!!! You are a blessing to Fila Philippines!!!

ABS-CBN Welcomes Superbook as an Official Kapamilya

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It’s official! The well-loved animated series Superbook from the 80’s and 90’s along with its new reimagined version is now a Kapamilya after the recently concluded contract signing held at the ELJ Towers, ABS-CBN Compound in Quezon City.

“Of course, we are very happy that finally Superbook is with ABS-CBN because we really believe in this animation and because we feel we have the same objective to better the lives of the Filipino, and for the kids to the best always. We feel that we are in sync and we have the same objectives. Superbook was meant to be here,” said Cory Vidanes, ABS-CBN Head for Broadcast.

“It’s really God’s timing for Superbook to be in ABS-CBN. We have always wanted to reach a new audience to share God’s love with,” added Peter Kairuz, CBN Asia President.

Superbook will air in Tagalog so that more children will be able to understand and grasp the values and lessons incorporated in the animation.

Max’s New Promos Heighten Excitement and Support for Team Gilas Pilipinas

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Mouthwatering comfort dishes and an exciting game of basketball form the perfect pair as the Philippine National Basketball Team (Gilas Pilipinas) gears up to make history at the most prestigious international basketball competition in Spain slated for August this year.

Global Filipino brand Max’s, the official restaurant of Team Gilas Pilipinas serves up exciting promos to bring the Gilas excitement to the hilt.

Max's will be giving Filipinos a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the Philippines' very own Gilas team compete against the best basketball players in the world with its Fly to Spain Promo. Customers may simply enjoy their favourite Max’s dishes at any Max’s Restaurant nationwide. For every PhP 300 food purchase made until July 12 (dine-in, take-out or delivery), customers will be entitled to one raffle coupon and inch closer to watching their favorite Gilas players compete live in Spain. They may also utilize social media by uploading a “puso to the Max” selfie (photo of oneself with right arm across the chest), posting the hashtag PusoToTheMax and sharing these on Twitter and Instagram. One winner will get the amazing privilege to fly to Spain with a companion, get free game passes for two, and be treated to free accommodations and pocket money.

As support for Gilas Pilipinas pours in, customers may also experience everything Gilas by just visiting Max’s Restaurant. They may now listen to the favorite music and sample the top 5 dishes of Gilas players while dining at Max’s. On top of the Gilas Team’s list of favorite dishes is Max's world-famous fried chicken, crispy on the outside and delectably tender on the inside. This dish is given an exciting twist and can now be enjoyed “Pinoy-Style” with 3 new dips to make each bite more enjoyable: Max's gravy, chilli sauce and Pinoy sarsa, to create a different kind of thrill for diners.

Haja Party: The 90s Pop and Kpop Clash

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A lot has happened since the last time we held an event in 2012. Now that we are better and stronger, we are bringing it all back to where we began. The date and venue is set! Welcome to Haja Party – The 90s Pop and Kpop Clash! Move over STEP OFF (Dance Pinoy Kpop), it’s time we PARTY, Playhouse style!

Haja Party: The 90s Pop and Kpop Clash is Playhouse Production's signature kpop event to be held on October 31, 2014 at CAP Auditorium in Makati City. It will have categories of kpop cover dance remix, kpop solo cosplay and kpop group cosplay with 20 slots each. The twist of the dance contest is the Kpop Cover Dance Remix (Dance Battle), as each of the groups have to mix their piece with a 90s song towards the end of their routine.

One of the main highlights of this event is the comeback stage of M3G as they perform their new song SOULMATE, which was written by their manager, Michelle Ann Rio, arranged by Exactly Four’s vocalist, Oddysseus Cabual and recorded at Impluwencia Recording Studio in Quezon City. In lieu of the song’s special promotion, the five finalists of ARE U MY SEOULMATE? will also be performing live.

Yahoo on the Road Reaches Out to Over 20,000 Students

Wazzup Pilipinas!

As part of this year’s Yahoo Celebrity Awards, Yahoo Philippines launched Yahoo on the Road, which toured various universities in Metro Manila bringing the fun and excitement to fans and students. This was extremely successful as over 20,000 students took part in the festivities at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Lyceum of the Philippines University and finally, at the Far Eastern University.

The final stop for Yahoo on the Road was a fascinating PEP rally that took place at the Far Eastern University Main campus in Sampaloc, Manila. After the PEP Rally, Yahoo Celebrity Awards Nominees for Emerging bands, Cheats, Brisom, Chocolate Grass and Yolanda Moon performed for over four thousand students at the campus. The students danced away as the evening ended on a high note with songs by one of the country’s hottest bands, Pupil!

The Yahoo on the Road bus is fully equipped with mobile phones and tablets where students experienced Yahoo’s latest products, took photos at the Flickr photobooth, and made requests for performers they want to see at the Yahoo Celebrity Awards Night to be held at the Mall of Asia Arena on July 18, 2014. The bus served as a stage where the bands performed. Aside from the emerging bands who performed, Rocksteddy and Sponge Cola brought the house down at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and Lyceum, respectively.

FILA and ART Launch Party

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Fila Philippines, Technomarine PH, Assurant BPO, IPM-CDC Waste Management, ATAT & Foil A Car Manila invites you to the official launching of the premier Superbike Team in the Philippines, A.R.T. (ATAT Racing Team)
ART (ATAT Racing Team) is the racing division of ATAT (Any Time All The Time) Motorcycle Club
Aiming to uplift Philippine Motorsports and promote safe riding. I'm excited to attend this event and to see the amazing bikes that will surely be on display at the venue.

FILA Philippines plays a huge part in this event as they are obviously a major sponsor and partner of the Superbike Team.
 The Launch party will be held on July 9, 2014, 7 pm at Jill's located at the The Fort Strip of Bonifacio Global City.

 

The event will be hosted by Fabio Ide and there will also be a special performance by The Side A Band

 

Cocktails is at 7 pm.

 

Attire: Everyone is encouraged to come at their best L’arte Nello Sport attire.

 

European Acrobats Take Resorts World Manila’s Bar 360 Stage

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The country’s premier one-stop, nonstop lifestyle destination Resorts World Manila (RWM) continues to thrill audiences with performances from some of the world’s best acts. This July, the integrated resort offers nothing short of heart-stopping moments as international acrobats take the stage at RWM’s entertainment hub Bar 360.

Catch world-class performances from renowned European acts Duo Kvas, Duo Grosu and Volkov Rukol as they perform six nights a week at Bar 360. Be mesmerized with true feats of human agility, strength, and coordination on stage. Witness these daring deeds live with a backup of rhythmic gymnasts and ballet dancers displaying equally fascinating and graceful moves.

Watch these acrobatic performances daily (except Wednesdays) at Bar 360, from 9 to 9:30 PM. The acrobatic shows are followed by some of the metro’s top musical performers such as retro band Mulatto (Thursdays), classic rock act Joey Revillame (July 5 & 26), The Voice of the Philippines finalist Janice Javier (Sundays), the Authority Band of Juan Miguel Salvador (July 12 & 19), and Aliw Award-winning rock group Draybers, fronted by 2013 The Voice of the Philippines winner Mitoy (Mondays, Tuesdays, & Fridays).

Visit www.rwmanila.com or call the Tourist/Visitor Hotline at (632) 908-8833 for more details.

Yahoo on the Road Bus Tours Metro Schools Makes Second Stop at Lyceum University

Wazzup Pilipinas!

As part of the 4th Yahoo Celebrity Awards, Yahoo Philippines brought the fun and excitement of the Celebrity Awards around different colleges and universities in the Metro. Yahoo on the Road is a special bus where students experienced Yahoo’s latest products, take photos at the Flickr photobooth, and make requests for performers they want to see at the Yahoo Celebrity Awards Night to be held at the Mall of Asia Arena on July 18, 2014.

Yahoo on the Road showcased bands which are nominated in this year’s Yahoo Celebrity Awards, a poll-based awards event that gives fans a chance to vote for their favorite stars who have trended on the Yahoo Philippines site in the past year. It has become the most anticipated event in the Philippines to honor local celebrities, emerging stars, and dedicated fans in music, film, television and even sports.

Yahoo on the Road first stopped at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in Sta. Mesa, Manila last June 9. Next on the campus visit was Lyceum of the Philippines University. During campus visits, the hottest bands in the country, led by Sponge Cola and Rocksteddy performed on the same stage as Celebrity Awards Emerging Band nominees, Cheats, Brisom, Yolanda Bloom and Chocolate Grass. The final stop was at Far Eastern University last July 4. During the school visits, students got the chance to win passes for the Awards Night.

Sandara Sends Shoutouts to Gerry’s

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Korean superstar Sandara Park, known as Dara or Sandy to thousands of fans, named Gerry’s as her restaurant of choice. Recently, Sandy who was in Singapore visited Gerry’s at Cuppage Road and on her Twitter account wrote: “Ang sarap talaga ng Gerry’s!”

Dara, who became popular in the Philippines via Channel 2’s Star Circle Quest earlier posted on Instagram: “That’s (Gerry’s) my forever favorite restaurant!” While in the Philippines, Dara brought his Korean friends including members of the K-Pop group Big Bang to feast on Pinoy favorites.

Refashioning itself with a cozier, homier ambience Gerry’s is set to open in Cauayan, Isabela; Fisher Mall in Quezon City, Robinson’s, Tuguegarao, SM Centerpoint in Sta. Mesa, Manila; Star Mall, Cebu, Aseana Mall in Paranaque City. Earlier this year, Gerry’s opened branches at the Ayala-run Fairview Terraces Mall and Iligan. The homegrown restaurant currently has more than 60 branches nationwide, with five in three locations abroad – Singapore, Qatar, and the U.S.

For more information log on to www.gerrysgrill.com

TripAdvisor Awards Resorts World Manila’s Maxims Hotel

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Resorts World Manila’s (RWM) all-suite Maxims Hotel has been awarded the 2014 Certificate of Excellence by popular international travel website TripAdvisor. The win signifies that Maxims Hotel has consistently earned outstanding feedback from TripAdvisor travelers from all around the world.

“To earn this recognition from a website such as TripAdvisor is an important achievement for us,” said RWM’s chief hotel operations officer Scott Sibley. “Today’s travelers use the Internet to research and book their accommodations and there is no better endorsement than a positive review shared on the TripAdvisor website by happy customers.”

According to TripAdvisor, the prestigious award is based on the quality of reviews and opinions earned on TripAdvisor over the past year. RWM’s Maxims Hotel consistently earned a four out of five rating amongst travelers who share their reviews and experience on the website whose content is predominantly user-generated.

For more information on Maxims Hotel, call +63(2) 908 8000 local 7770 or visit reservation@rwmanila.com.

Performance Artist Explores Female Power and Beauty Through Poetry and Visual Expression

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Performance poetry artist, advocate and educator Kooky Tuason presents a fresh look at female empowerment in her new coffee table book Picket Lines: Dialogues Between Eves, Among Eves and For Eves, which features 100 photos of women with poems written on their bodies. The book juxtaposes poetry on select women’s skin and images to make powerful statements about the lives of women.

Picket Lines is a product of the author’s collaboration with photographers Niccolo Cosme, Tabitha Fernan, Mitch Mauricio, Katrina Pallon, and Nikkorlai Tapan. It features various women, many of whom are leaders in their fields and prominent in the public arena such as Sr. Mary John Mananzan, Fides Cuyugan-Asensio, Miriam Quiambao, Shawn Yao, Andrea del Rosario, Nina Ricci Alagao, Cecile Guidote-Alavarez, Love Anover, Jodi Sta. Maria, Lilia Cuntapay, Cynthia Alexander, Kate Torralba, Michelline Syjuco, Risa Hontiveros, Sonia Roco, Twinkle Ferraren, Abby Asistio, Gaby dela Merced, Giselle Sanchez, Sanya Smith, Mocha, Karen Kunawicz, Gloria Diaz, Aimee Marcos, Anita Linda. The images reflected in the book were intensified by the contributions of highly talented make-up artists and stylists.

Tuason has studied performance art and trained under the British Council, then went on to share her craft and promote the art through conducting performance poetry workshops, performing in gigs, art exhibits, radio shows, schools, embassies and other venues.

Wazzup Pilipinas: Can You Handle Awesome?

Wazzup Pilipinas!Hindi po ako ipinanganak na mayaman ang mga magulang. Hindi rin po ako guwapo kaya kalimutan na ang pag-aartista. Hindi rin po ako pwedeng basketbolista dahil maliit lang po ako, hindi rin po ako napaka-talino para makaimbento ng isang miracle drug na cure for cancer. Hindi rin po ako marunong kumanta kaya hanggang sa banyo lang ako nagko-concert.

Sadyang simpleng mamamayan ng Pilipinas lamang po ako. Sabi ng iba ay kabilang sa nakakaraming masa. Walang lahing banyaga at purong Pilipino.

Pero pilit pong nagsumikap ako kahit kakaunti ang oportunidad para sa katulad kong simpleng tao. Isang katangiang Pilipino na aking ipagmamalaki ay ang sipag at tiyaga - pero huwag ninyo namang isipin ang isang pulitiko dahil hindi ko po gawaing maligo sa dagat ng basura.


I've been everywhere, several times, paulit-ulit sa iba't-ibang sulok ng bansa....even outside the country... Hindi pa ako blogger during those younger years. I just go where I please. I just do whatever I want.

Ngayon ko lang na-appreciate ang tunay na beauty of the Philippines dahil I now write about them. It is only recently that I've seen my efforts being rewarded and recognized. What is more fulfilling to know is that I am able to help others with my advocacy. The many thanks and gratitude towards my work are endless, enduring and touching.

Repertory Philippines Theater for Young Audiences Announces Cast of Pinocchio

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In celebration of its 22 years of producing well-loved musicals for children of all ages, Repertory Philippines’ Children’s Theater proudly announces a richly imaginative offering with the staging of “ PINOCCHIO ” - the story of a familiar wooden puppet who wants to become a real boy whose nose grew when he told a lie.

Côngratulations to the cast !!!!!

PINOCCHIO: Albert Silos, Noel Comia, Daniel Drilon, Guido Gatmaytan, Sofie Wong and Andee Achacoso

ANTONIO: Arnel Carrion and James Stacey
GEPPETTO: Oliver Usison and Nic Campos
ANGELINA: Natalie Everett, Ring Antonio and Bituin Escalante
BLUE FAIRY: Liesl Batucan, Christine Flores, Cara Barredo
COACHMAN: Onyl Torres, Raul Montesa and Bituin Escalante
FOX: Steven Conde and Steven Hotchkiss
CAT: Chino Veguillas and Dingdong Rosales
CANDLEWICK: Antonio Lane and Jay Pangilinan
GINO: Vien King and Steven Conde

ENSEMBLE: Khevin Almario, Mano Domingo, Gold Soon, Thea Gloria,
Gabri Panlilio, Ina Salonga, David Shawn Delgado, Justine Pena,
Daniel Delgado, James Perez, Kendrick Ibasco, Cristy Paredo,
Mica Fajardo, Astarte Abraham and Nicolle Cojuangco

Tanghalang Ateneo's 36th Season All Set to Open with "Middle Finger" on August 1

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Tanghalang Ateneo, the longest-running theater company of the Loyola Schools of the Ateneo de Manila University, celebrates its 36th season with the theme “Navigating Identities”. The company aims to stage plays that center on man’s exploration and need to find himself and his place in the world.

The season opener will feature Han Ong’s ‘MIDDLE FINGER,’ an adaptation of the famous German play ‘Spring Awakening’ by Frank Wedekind.

Featuring a bilingual script using the original by Han Ong and a Filipino translation by Ronan B. Capinding, MIDDLE FINGER is a coming-of-age story centered on two Filipino teenagers, Jakob Rodriguez and Benjamin Lunga, studying in a Catholic school in America. In a world dominated by adults and social constructs, they attempt to find control and establish themselves as individuals.

Guelan Luarca shall play the role of Jakob Rodriguez, a headstrong and rebellious adolescent boy trying hard to break away from the boundaries set for him by the adults in his life.

Joe-Nel Garcia shall play the role of Benjamin Lunga, the best friend of Jakob, this average student only wants the good and simple things but is suddenly faced with the hard reality of life.

Jean Marc Cordero as Apolinario Mabini in "La Revolucio Filipina"

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Jean Marc Cordero discovered dance through theater arts. As a Theater Arts major at the Philippine High School for the Arts, he performed the lead in the dance-drama Ang Hatol ng Guhit na Bilog, which was collaborated on by Agnes Locsin, Shamaine Buencamino, and Biag Gaongen, and performed at the 8th Asian Arts Festival in China. With Tanghalang Pilipino, he performed in The Slanting Dance of the Buluklik Hawks directed by Fernando Josef and choreographed by Agnes Locsin.

At age 18, he joined BP as a scholar with Noordin Jumalon as his teacher, and was promoted to apprentice a year later. He became a company member in 2007, and his training continued under Augustus Damian III and Alan Hineline. He has since performed in all of BP’s productions including principal roles in La Revolucion Filipina, Coppelia, The Nutcracker, Peter Pan, Crisostomo Ibarra, and Don Quixote among others. He has a Bachelor of Performing Arts Major in Dance from De La Salle—College of Saint Benilde.

He competed at the 2007 New York International Ballet Competition and became the first Filipino male to reach the semifinals at the 2010 USA International Ballet Competition. He won the 2010 Gawad Buhay Outstanding Male Lead Performer in a Modern Dance Production for his work in Crisostomo Ibarra and the award for Outstanding Male Featured Performance for Sleeping Beauty in 2011.

Kleptomaniacs Rap Musical Opens on July 11

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Wow ! A rap-through musical ? Yes, yes, yes .....

Presented by the CCP and Tanghalang Pilipino, this original Filipino musical is inspired by the Napoles scandal. This will highlight the struggle of a group of young Filipino student leaders to check and police their own ranks against their own early inclination and natural lust for power and the strong temptation toward materialism, corruption and dishonesty. A reality search for the future President, senators and congressmen of our country, hopefully, all of a different breed from all those in our midst right now.

All songs are in the form of the rap song, all dialogue happen like a fliptop battle. Taking from local hiphop culture, the dance and movement that are part of this story’s telling is distinctly of the present, even as it refuses to fall into the trap of foreign mimicry.

Working with local hiphop culture’s roots in speaking out against oppression and creating a community, and inspired by the songs of Gloc-9 and its ability to critically engage with issues that are important and relevant, Kleptomaniacs is the story of our common and current struggle against the need and hunger that corruption breeds.

Dani Girl All Set to Open on July 11

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Sandbox Collective will be mounting the Off-Broadway musical, Dani Girl, a heartwarming and uplifting tale of a young girl’s battle with leukemia.

Told from a child’s perspective, this provocative new musical by Michael Kooman and Christopher Dimond, winners of the 2010 Jonathan Larson Grant, explores the universal themes of life in the face of death, hope in the face of despair, and the peerless power of a child’s imagination.

Far from sitting back and letting her condition take over her, nine year-old Dani Lyons embarks on an imaginary adventure alongside her teddy bear Mr. Fritz, her guardian angel Raph, and her geeky roommate Marty to win back her beloved hair and find the answer to the question, “Why is cancer?”

The show has played successfully Off-Broadway, as well as in fringe festivals and regional theatres across Australia, Canada, and the United States. Dani Girl will be making its Asian premiere through The Sandbox Collective. Toff de Venecia directs.

Dani Girl runs up to July 27.
Carlos P. Romulo Theater, RCBC Plaza.
Call TICKETWORLD 891-9999.

See you at the theater !!!!!

Celia Diaz Laurel's "The Colors of My Life" Coffee Table Book Launch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Celia Diaz Laurel is an artist par excellence, prolific stage actress, writer, poetess, set and costume designer for more than six decades.

Just recently, a treasure trove of her artworks on different subjects were launched via a coffee table book aptly titled ‘The Colors of My Life Celia Diaz Laurel – Painter’ at the Executive House, U.P. Diliman, Q.C.

The book was launched by the UP College of Fine Arts Alumni Foundation Inc. (UPCFAAFI) headed by its President, Romeo Carlos.

Special guests of honor were UP President Alfredo Pascual who delivered the keynote address and his wife Menchu Pascual, who led the ribbon cutting ceremonies together with noted visual artist Araceli ‘Cheloy’ Dans and world-class sculptor Ramon Orlina.

Manhid: The Pinoy Superhero Musical

Wazzup Pilipinas!

What price is our freedom? The Ballet Philippines season ends with the cult dance rock musical Manhid, co-presented by Tanghalang Pilipino. Set in an alternate present day Philippines where the EDSA revolution failed, this musical features heroes and villains with superpowers, and a people sick with Kamanhiran (Apathy). Celebrating a nation of heroes, Manhid promises to be a must- watch event for 2015.

Manhid is a dance rock musical written by Auraeus Solito, Vincent de Jesus, Carina Evangelista, and the Eraserheads. It is choreographed by Paul Alexander Morales and Alden Lugnasin.
“Ballet + superheroes + the music of Eraserheads (back when they were in UP)” sums  up Manhid: The Pinoy Superhero Musical. This will surely be something interesting to watch as all elements of the the musical are the things that really catches my attention.


CCP Main Theater | February 20-28, March 1-8, 2015


You may purchase tickets in the following options:
1. Ticketworld: Visit www.ticketworld.com.ph or call (02) 891-9999
2. CCP Box Office: (02) 832-3704
3. Ballet Philippines: (02) 551-1003 | (02) 551- 7919

Recommended for group buys (10 or more), show buys, and subscriptions.

Vigan as New 7 Wonders Cities

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The 21 Official Finalists that have been voted through to the next round of the New 7 Wonders Cities campaign are: Bangkok, Barcelona, Beirut, Chicago, Doha, Durban, Havana, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, La Paz, London, Mendoza, Mexico City, Mumbai, Perth, Quito, Reykjavik, Saint Petersburg, Seoul, Shenzhen and Vigan.

I am encouraging everyone to vote for Vigan - that historic city in Ilocos Sur- more popularly known for
Calle Crisologo, the nerve center of the city's historic district.

No less than Vice President Jejomar  Binay says that “Vigan reflects our country’s rich culture and history. As Filipinos proud of our own heritage, let us help make Vigan our very own world wonder.”

As the lone nominee from the Philippines, Vigan aims to duplicate the success of the Puerto Princesa Underground River, which was named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2012.

We can do it! Pause for a while doing selfies, groupies, chats, status updates, shares, likes, rants, hate posts and tweets, it's time to make our country proud by making Vigan one of the New 7 Wonders Cities.

Put Down the iPad and Spin the Globe

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Any dad knows the challenge of trying to come up with new bedtime stories for his children. After exhausting every variation of bunny, frog, knight and princess stories he could come up with, Edward Moldenhauer took notice of the globe on a dresser. He got the idea of asking his kids to help him with a story topic by spinning the globe.

Edward’s children would use their finger to stop the globe, and wherever their finger landed, their dad had to tell them an impromptu story about that particular country or area. And that’s how the Frederick von Wigglebottom book series was born.

Spin the Globe: The Incredible Adventures of Frederick von Wigglebottom is book series where Frederick is transported to a new and exciting country to explore in each edition. The first story of the series and takes place in Australia, the second one takes readers to Norway.

“My goal is to instill in young children the desire to learn and experience the many wonders of our world,” says Moldenhauer. “Unfortunately, many children and adults will never be able realize or visit these locations in person, so this book can open their minds to new and exciting topics.”

Chef Jessie's Top of the Citi: Fine Dining That's Truly Meant to Be On Top

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Last time I've met Chef Jessie was at her 100 Revolving Restaurant in Eastwood. My family and I had a wonderful time dining on the sumptuous buffet dishes at her restaurant while enjoying the spectacular 360 degree view of Metro Manila.

My family and I will often laugh at each other when we find ourselves located at another part of the restaurant and desperately trying to figure out where the buffet table was now located. I would get lost and would sometimes miss our table going back, but my kids were having the best time going back and forth enjoying mostly the dessert.

This time, I got to try Chef Jessie's Top of the Citi restaurant located on top of the Citibank Tower. Just like at 100, many of her dishes at this Makati restaurant also boasts of the same superior quality dishes but this time the presentation were works of art beginning with the Appetizers, the Salads, the Soups, the Main Entree, all the way up to the Dessert.

I ordered one for each category so I could really sample how it is like at the Top of the Citi. Many have been missing on these wonderful feasts since some people think that the restaurant above the Citibank Tower is exclusive for the building tenants, and some even thought it's exclusive for Citibank employees. Oh, boy! They were all wrong. It is such a shame they haven't discovered this awesome restaurant right at the top of Makati. get on your feet guys and instead of going to fast-food restaurants killing yourself with oily fried foods filled with cholesterol, spend a little more on healthy foods that's reasonably priced.

Fluid: A Reinterpretation of Palanca Award-Winning Play All Set to Open on July 24

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s Technical Theater Program Batch 111 proudly presents a reinterpretation of the Palanca Award-winning play, “ FLUID ”.

Written and directed by Floy Quintos, the comedy is about young Filipino contemporary artists struggling to make a name for themselves as they negotiate the tricky terrain between Love, Art and Compromise.

“ FLUID ” is set to open on July 24 and shall continue to run on July 25 and 26 (1:00 pm and 7:00 pm) at the 5/F SDA Theater, School of Design and Arts Campus, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, 950 P. Ocampo St., Malate, Manila. A press preview is set on July 23 at 7 p.m.

“ FLUID ” is written as a series of scenes in different locations featuring three pairs of characters who seemingly have nothing to do with each other. Amir is a struggling and frustrated young painter whose life is about to be changed by Mira a wealthy art collector who dreams of discovering new talent. Jom and Alben are passionate theater actors torn between their passion for their craft and the lure of fame. Renata is a seemingly batty orchestra coordinator out to defend the dignity of her orchestra when it is hired to play at a society wedding by the overbearing events coordinator, Simone. All these unique and clashing characters come together unexpectedly at an art exhibit where their impulses lead to joyful mayhem.

Epson Supports 'Portraits of Love' Event For Kids With Cancer

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Last June 27, a group of volunteers brought smiles to the faces of children afflicted with cancer through the “Portraits of Love” charity event. Organized by renowned photographer Pilar Tuason and in cooperation with the Kythe Foundation, the event gave the children a magical day full of laughter and love.

“This year, I wanted to do something with Kythe. I asked them if they had something set up and they said they didn’t have anything. If I wanted to come up with something then I’d have to do it on my own. They said that if I want, I could just take pictures in the ward. But it’s not the same. In the ward they’re getting their treatment. They’re sad, they’re lethargic. So I said I’ll do it. I have a lot of good friends, volunteers. We can’t call this as my project – I think it’s everyone’s project,” said Tuason.

When asked why she initiated this activity, Tuason replied, “They’re having a great time; for them, it’s a huge party. Everyone is a celebrant here. And for the parents, it’s a good break from being in the room, waiting for treatment every Friday. This is something different for them.” The kids enjoyed several attractions, including a magic and puppet show, a dancing Jollibee, and a football tutorial by Team Socceroo Football Club from the United Football League (UFL). Pilar Tuason took portraits of the children and with their parents, which were printed with Epson’s L800 genuine ink tank system photo printer.

My MINI and Me: Driving the MINI Cooper S in Metro Manila

 
Wazzup Pilipinas!

I was destined to drive the MINI. That's for sure! Of all the luck in the world, I had to be given the opportunity to be among the first ones to test drive the Mini for more than 24 hours around the streets of Metro Manila. I took it home with me on the night of the first day, and drove it again the following day on a road trip with my wife and kids.

My wife and I were comfortable upfront, but my three kids felt crowded at the back. It seems the MINI is not meant for a family of five. My kids are almost as big as us so that's where the problem lies. They just grew up to fast for us to realize they are of adult size already.

If they were still on their elementary years, they would have fit very nicely, but the particular MINI that I got was just too small for them. But we did manage to go around the Metro with very little complaint form them - that is after a few hours of driving.

From its location in the Bonifacio Global City showroom, I took it with me in Makati to meet up a blogger friend for a restaurant review. I was a given a chance to review Top of the Citi, one of the three famous restaurants of renowned Chef Jessie. I think it took me three hours before we were done so I paid for three hours of parking near the Citibank Towers.

“Dancing In The Light” Multi-Media Concert All Set on July 24

Wazzup Pilipinas!

“Dancing in the Light” is a multi-media concert that interprets profound truths through the arts. The words of wisdom of spiritual leader and life coach Dadi Janki come alive through theatre, dance, music, video and sculpture. This one-woman show is performed by Marge Enriquez, directed by Bart Guingona and choreographed by Douglas Nierras. The videos were shot on location at Avellana Art Gallery by Galileo Te of Indioboy productions.

“Dancing in the Light” will be shown on July 24 at 7:30 pm at Onstage, Greenbelt 1. The free concert is made possible through Calata Corporation, Piandré, Belo Medical Group, Century Properties, Fila, Neurobion, Penshoppe, Prestige Brands, Manila Broadcasting Company, Natimars Foundation, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., Vonotec and Watsons.

For details, contact 0917-980-3541.

Bambike Ecotours of Intramuros: The Coolest Way to Tour Intramuros

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Bambike Ecotours Intramuros is an exciting and educational ecotourism activity in the heart of Manila’s old walled city of Intramuros. Guests will be riding through the streets on bamboo bikes that have been handmade by Gawad Kalinga villagers here in the Philippines. Tourists will be led around the area, getting to cover more ground than if on a walking tour and having a more interesting experience than if going around on a calesa.This ecotour will both teach visitors about Philippine history and make them feel like kids again."

I agree to their Facebook page description. The tour will make you feel like a kid again. That's for sure. I saw these in the faces of my fellow bloggers before they proceeded with the actual tour. Yes! I mean "they" for I had to miss the opportunity to ride with them and Bryan, the proprietor and brains behind "Bambike" because I had to pick up a Mini Cooper S at the Bonifacio Global City Mini showroom. The guys at Mini scheduled the pick-up the same time I was supposed to be riding with the Wazzup Pilipinas community.

It was between riding a Bambike and a Mini...I would have chosen the Bambike but Bryan made it easier for me - he gave me another opportunity to join them in any schedule tour. Thus after taking a group photo with them, I ran off to the Mini showroom all eager and excited to drive like there was no tomorrow (joke). Seriously, I was very careful in driving the Mini since it was not mine to begin with.

Icon Manila 2014: Makes Me Wish I Followed My Dreams

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I am a frustrated artist. I loved to draw during my younger years. I even had my own line of characters similar to the popular groups back when I was still studying. Name all the cartoons and I had my own version patterned after them. My own superhero team, my own transforming robots, my own creations with their distinct personalities, costumes and personal backgrounds.

I could have been a Fine Arts student, but my parents said there was no future in the arts. They were implying, but obviously stating, that there's no financial assurance in drawing, sketching, painting, or whatever form it may be.

I ended up taking an Engineering course from one of the reputable colleges in Manila. But even until now after graduation and several employments with top-notch multi-national corporations and organizations, I somehow still feel incomplete and empty. I keep longing for opportunities to apply my artistry and creativity. Some could probably see it in my past works - I was always appointed as the presentation master since I was great at Powerpoint,, the one who draws for the assignments or homeworks of my cousins, and the one who prepares announcement posters for the company. They chose me because they can see that I know how to match colors that will look good. I have an eye for beauty as I lay-out posters and ads, - in other words - the desire to be creative always shines out in almost everything that I do.

Attending the Icon Manila 2014 event made me realize that these guest artists share a common story with me. Not all of them intended to be an artist. Most of them ended up at their work because the passion was there. It seems noone really can be stopped if there is passion inside still burning and yearning to get out. No amount of opportunity will be reason enough if there was no passion. For them, when the opportunity came, they grabbed it. Some may have worked for it all of their life, but it would have not lasts if there was no passion.

NBA 3X Philippines: DeMar DeRozan, Wesley Johnson, Raptors Dance Pak and Slamson the Lion

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Basketball fanatics had another awesome NBA experience with the return of the NBA 3X here in the Philippines. Presented by Sprite, boys and girls of all skill levels - with an open division for men and women - were able to participate and vie for top honors and bragging rights at the SM Mall of Asia and Philippine International Convention Center from July 4 to 6, 2014.

At a press conference held at the NBA Cafe of SM Aura located in Bonifacio Global City, members of the media had the opportunity to interview popular personalities like Toronto Raptors' DeMar DeRozan, Los Angeles Lakers' Wesley Johnson, the Raptors Dance Pak, and Sacramento Kings' Slamson the Lion.

Coco-Cola executive Adel Tamano was there to represent Sprite, and joined the organizers from NBA Philippines in a photo ops, along with the celebrity guests.

Aside from the competitive 3x3 tournaments, the NBA 3X Philippines 2014 celebrates basketball and the NBA with many free fan activities like a slam dunk contest, basketball clinics, 3-point shoot-outs, skill challenges, autograph sessions, live bands and DJs,  NBA merchandize giveaways, and appearances of local celebrities at a celebrity division 3x3 tournament.

International Film Expo 2014: Opportunities for Partnership and Growth for Filmmakers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The International Film Expo 2014 with a theme of  "Your Film Corridor to Asia" was held at the SMX Convention Center of the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City last June 27 to 29, 2014. The event is one of the premier film expositions that brought together the world’s most prominent players in the film industry and showcased the best and the latest trends surrounding the global film market.

The expo features several exhibitors from all over the world and a series of symposia covering a wide array of topics about the state, challenges, and opportunities surrounding the film industry worldwide. The conference brought together international stakeholders in film that discussed critical issues affecting the film industry worldwide, present technological advances and promote education as a tool towards a future-ready film industry.

Primarily brought to us by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the expo aims to make the Philippines a central hub for international film providers eying the Asian market through co-productions, partnerships, and other mutually beneficial arrangements. The expo featured reputable local and international production companies, film schools, film equipment suppliers, and other organizations like RSVP Film Studios, Black Magic Design, Array’s Technology, Inc., CMB Film Services, Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation from South Korea, just to name few. The FDCP hopes to continue developing more opportunities for partnership and growth for local and international filmmakers.

Tanghalang Ateneo Proudly Presents 36th Season Line-Up of Productions

Wazzup Pilipinas!



Tanghalang Ateneo’s repertoire of plays is daunting: world classics, Filipino originals, and documentary texts turned into theater pieces. Its productions are noted for thought, generosity, and energy, while its lingua franca on stage is both Filipino and English. 

The longest-running theater company of the Loyola Schools, Ateneo de Manila University uses theater to foster eloquentia, sapientia, and humanitas – the pillars of Jesuit pedagogy. It sees itself as a theater company in the service of student formation, and by extension – given the Jesuit ideal of magis – a theater in service of the nation.

Since its founding in 1972 (and formally recognized five years later), Tanghalang Ateneo has grown from a fledgling band of student players to one of the country’s leading school-based theater companies.

Tanghalang Ateneo proudly announces its 36th season line-up for the school year 2014-2015 consisting of three productions with the theme “Navigating Identities” revolving around man's need to define himself and his significance in the world.

Nominate Wazzup Pilipinas to the Globe Tatt Awards as Best Lifestyle Blog

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Please nominate our blog to the Globe Tatt Awards 2014 as the Best Lifestyle Blog/Microblog. Please vote for Wazzup Pilipinas and let us all share the recognition - because we are a community, and our community is one! We are Wazzup Pilipinas!

Nominations are open until July 10, and voting starts on July 15. Why nominate for Wazzup Pilipinas? Aside from its already existing awards as Top Emerging Blog of 2013, Most Outstanding Filipino Community Blog Site of 2013, Best Filipino Community Blog Site of 2014, and Top Filipino Community Blog Site of 2014, the blog is a merging of uber creative and passionate correspondents of mixed age, specialties and background - as young as high school students to as experienced as professional bloggers, writers and employees that are all sharing their stories to the world in support of the It's More Fun in the Philippines program of the Department of Tourism.

Its founder, Ross Flores Del Rosario, was also awarded as Best Choice Influential Social Media Evangelist of which formal awarding ceremonies will be held on July 25, 2014 at the Crowne Plaza located in Ortigas, Pasig city.

Please click on the link below to take you to the voting site:

http://www.tattawards2014.com?kid=3G03P

Cebu BRT Hailed by Foreign and Local Advocates

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) push to modernize urban mobility by introducing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to the country has garnered praises from foreign and local advocates of democratized, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly transport systems.

“The goal is not simply to modernize transport facilities and improve commuter experience, it is also to provide the public with a better quality of life. Due to the fast, efficient, and convenient features of BRTs, they save passengers the time normally wasted in traffic jams. BRTs allow people to be more productive and to have better access to opportunities,” remarked DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

The Cebu BRT project of the DOTC, recently approved by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), was first conceptualized as early as the 1990s. This P 10.6-Billion project is financed by the World Bank through its Clean Technology Fund.

Nigel Paul Villarete, who was City Administrator and later City Planning Officer of Cebu, was in charge of project development. Villarete says that: “The fulfillment of the Cebu BRT will change the face of Metro Cebu forever, and will auger well for the metropolis to become a people-oriented, humane, sustainable, and livable city in the future, where the rich share the same ride with the poor. The BRT is not just a transportation project, it’s an urban improvement project.”

DOT Partners with Cruise Lines International Association to Develop Cruise Ports, Itinerary, and Guest Experience

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Tourism (DOT) sees strong interest from international cruise lines increasing their ports of call and expanding visits to more islands in the country.

Speaking before guests and industry stakeholders during the Philippine Cruise Industry Workshop held last week at the Makati Shangri-la, Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. said that cruise arrivals in the Philippines grew by 48 percent in the last two years since 2011 amounting close to 20,000 in 2013. And while the country’s cruise infrastructure is being developed, international cruise lines calling in the country have increased substantially, with 16 cruise vessels last year from just 10 in 2011.

“We are expecting some 18 cruise ships this year that should bring in more than 20,000 tourists. Our country’s proximity to major cruise source markets like China, Japan, and Hong Kong positions us at a competitive and comparative advantage in the Asia-Pacific region. This should give industry stakeholders greater prospects and our local communities new jobs and opportunities,” the tourism chief added.

Secretary Jimenez believes that what is now considered a niche market will see an increase in demand in the years ahead. “Preparation is absolutely essential. And that is what this workshop precisely calls for—to formulate a national cruise development plan that will chart the Philippines’ role in the cruising business in Southeast Asia,” he further explained.