About the author It feels great to be onboard CarouselPinoy.Com! And I’d like to share this great feeling to all the loyal followers of this widely-read Pinoy Entertainment Portal in the US! For the past 12 years, I’ve been writing, handling public relations (PR) projects, and even teaching the science of PR to prospective practitioners at De La Salle University-Manila. It started out really serious for me as young professional to be handling corporate PR accounts for Pepsi Philippines, Dao Heng Bank, PICOP Resources, and some land and investment holdings in the first 8 years of my practice. I definitely learned a lot from the experience. But, hey, I feel I needed to let my hair down! Heaven-sent Philippine theater stalwarts Bart Guingona (Actor’s Actors Inc.) and Audie Gemora (STAGES) came into the picture to “rescue” me. I tried it out first as a freelance publicist to Guingona and Gemora’s theatrical production of Off Broadway hit “The Last Five Years.” The theater bug finally bit me and ‘til now I’m handling a huge slice of the pie of the biggest theater shows in the Philippines like Trumpets’ productions of “Mr. Noah’s Big Boat,” and “Joseph the Dreamer;” Actors’ Actors Inc.’s productions of Broadway shows “Oleanna,” “Art,” “Once On This Island,” and “Death and the Maiden;” Dulaang UP’s grand production of “St. Louis Loves Dem Filipinos;” and of course my homebase – STAGES’ production of hit Broadway musical “Footloose,” and the upcoming full stage production of Disney’s “High School Musical.” Moreover, my post in STAGES as resident publicist and PR consultant, has been paving the way for me to work on the publicity needs of big mainstream artists such as Christian Bautista, Gary Valenciano, “Little Big Star” grand prize winner Sam Concepcion, Heart Evangelista, Rachelle Ann Go, Bituin Escalante, Lara Fabregas, Franco Laurel, Philippines’ premier rock band The Dawn, among others. The chance to also work on the much-needed publicity for independent films like Clodualdo del Mundo's “Maid In Singapore,” and “Pepot Superstar,” Denisa Reyes and Mark Gary’s “Sandalang Bahay, and more recently Adolf Alix’s “Donsol,” and Mike Sandejas’ “Tulad Ng Dati came into my way. PR works for marine resources and whale shark (butanding) conservation in partnership with Greenpeace Philippines, and underwater cinematographer Carina Escudero have definitely fueled in more passion into my practice. When Carousel Pinoy’s publisher Terry Badiola offered me a column space on his highly popular portal, I just couldn’t say no. I firmly believe that the Philippines has been blessed with amazing talents, arts and culture, travel destinations and marine resources; and the rest of the world must know that. Sadly, most of our kababayans in the US are not even aware of these amazing tidbits about the Philippines. I hope that my column “STAGESCOPE” will be a worthy expanded avenue for our kababayans in the US and for that matter all over the world to appreciate more of the Philippines. The Philippines is not as bad as what you read in the papers or watch on TV. Allow me tell you the other side of the story. I urge you to read on, and the great wonders of the Philippines will unfold. God Bless. I love the Philippines. Oliver Oliveros stages_pr@i-manila.com.ph RP wins top prizes in Hollywood Olympics Aug. 5, 2007 11-year old Aria Clemente, ABS CBN's "Little Big Superstar" finalist, emerged as Over-all Grand Champion of the World (Junior Division) in the recently concluded 11th World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Hollywood, USA. The young singer hurdled three rounds of competitions in 5 vocal categories, which included Broadway, Pop, Latin, Rock and Gospel, to get into the grand finals. As Over-all Grand Champion, she bested around 5,000 entries, which included dance, acting and modeling acts, coming from 50 other countries from Armenia to the USA. Aria sang an abridged version of "Don't Rain On My Parade" from the musical "Funny Girl" that also won her the Grand Champion Junior Vocalist of the World award in the contest. She competed against 4 junior vocalists representing South Africa, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago and Russia. Reymond Sajor, ABC 5's "Philippine Idol" Season 1 finalist is another big Pinoy winner in WCOPA. Reymond clinched the Grand Champion Senior Vocalist of the World award with his rendition of 1 minute-long "Anthem" from the musical "Chess." He competed with fellow Pinoy singer Raki Vega, and 3 other vocalists from Haiti and South Africa. The panel of judges in this year's WCOPA is composed of prominent entities (casting directors, talent agents, magazine editors, music composers and arrangers from Broadway, record producers, and TV and film producers) from Hollywood and Broadway mainstream industries namely LA models agency, Nickelodeon, Disney Theme Parks, Paramount Pictures, and various Broadway theatre companies. Judging is based on entertainment value, and marketability of talent in the mainstream entertainment industry in the US. WCOPA is often cited as the "Hollywood Olympics" for performers and entertainers. After 11 years of incredible growth, it has become the only premier international talent and modeling competition of its kind annually held in Hollywood, the entertainment capital of the world. Similar to the Olympics, only invited and qualified competitors (called Worldstars) representing countries compete each year in a fierce competition for Grand Champion of the World titles. Filipino recording and concert artist Jed Madela was named Over-all Grand Champion of the World (Senior Division) in 2005. All Kids Talent Management Group, based in Los Angeles, has had talks with Aria and Carlo Orosa, WCOPA National Director for the Philippines, regarding representation of the young singer in Hollywood. On the other hand, Reymond and Raki have had one-on-one meeting with Shelley Sondheim, nephew of famed Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim, of what Hollywood and Broadway have to offer to them. "Team Philippines to this year's WCOPA has once again proved to the world that our singing talents are exceptional and world-class. Everybody is a winner. Doors have opened for these talents to explore and expand to mainstream Hollywood and Broadway," says Orosa. Aria and Reymond have been trained in Trumpets Playshop, and endorsing Trumpets Musicademy in the Philippines. Aria will soon star in the Manila debut of Off Broadway hit musical "Children's Letters to God." Reymond is currently working on his debut album. Both new World Champions are managed by STAGES, same management group handling Filipino mainstream artists Christian Bautista, and Sam Concepcion. WCOPA grand finals night, held at Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles, was taped for television for distribution worldwide. Team Philippines to WCOPA has been supported by STAGES, Trumpets Musicademy, PLDT MyDSL, Outland, Pagcor, Francis Libiran, Rodriguez de Alba Bespoke, Sen. Bong Revilla, German Moreno, Genesis Entertainment, and friends. For any queries, you may contact Oliver Oliveros, Senior Public Relations Officer/Consultant, STAGES, at tel. no. 818-1111 loc. 225, mobile no. 0928-7725254, email add. stages_pr@i-manila.com.ph, or web site http://oliverpublicist.blogspot.com ‘KADIN’ premieres at the 3rd Cinemalaya Film Festival July 17, 2007 Adolfo Alix Jr.'s new film, "KADIN" (The Goat), will premiere as one of the competing films in the 3rd Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) this July 20-29, 2007. “KADIN” (The Goat) was shot entirely in the picturesque island of Sabtang, Batanes. Capturing the beauty of the Chavayan village, which is nominated as one of UNESCO's world heritage sites, “KADIN” also features non-professional actors and natives of the island. The film's two lead stars, Rico Mark Cardona and Monica Joy Camarillas were cast after a series of auditions from about 150 Ivatan children. The film deals with Peping who wakes up to find out that their kadin (goat), is missing. His family makes a living out of the milk provided by the goat. He hides the truth from his grandmother. His father is also arriving the next day so he needs to find the goat before it’s too late. Together with his younger sister, Lita, the two go on a seemingly impossible search for the goat in the landscape of the island. A series of frustrating episodes mark the day, tension and desperation growing as natural and human forces conspire to frustrate them at every turn. The odyssey teaches the boy about the true meaning of life- where kindness and cruelty can be found in close proximity. "It's a very simple film. I was watching an Oprah episode one late night where she was giving out cows to a small village in Africa. She told the members of the community that she's not giving out money because she wants a continuous source of income for them. That sparked an idea in my mind to develop a concept. In this age where people are more concerned with technology- iPods, cellphones, laptops, I wanted to confront the basic issues of living. What if a family's only source of income gets lost? At what lengths would you go to find it? I did my research and found out how goats are very important in Batanes. That's how I decided to set ‘KADIN’ in Batanes," reveals Director Adolfo Alix Jr. "Kadin" (The Goat) is Alix' second film. His first foray as writer and director, "Donsol" was a finalist in the 2006 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival where it won Best Actress and Best Cinematography honors. The film was screened in several international film festivals abroad and garnered Special Jury prizes in the Asian Marine Film Festival in Japan and in the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival in the U.S.A. KADIN's gala premiere will be on July 21, 2007 at the CCP Main Theater, 6 p.m. The film is produced by Bicycle Pictures and Ignite Media, Inc. Bituin Escalante releases third studio album, 'Ur Luv Thang' July 10, 2007 When a brilliant performer releases a new album in the market, it is always a cause for celebration. "Neo-Soul diva" Bituin Escalante has finally released her independently produced third studio album titled "Ur Luv Thang." After some time spent concentrating more on her other love – the theater, Bituin returns with a soulful, heartfelt album filled with emotion and artistry. Collaborating with Dan Gil, who wrote and produced all the tracks on the album, Bituin skillfully works her way through various musical styles in the way only she can. Long renowned as one the Philippines' best, most powerful and expressive vocalists, Bituin does not disappoint. From the sultry pulse of "Last Tango in Manila" to the brooding, soul-flavored reggae of "Inconsiderate," she shows she can do it all. Featuring guest performances by Dan Gil, Johnny Alegre, Artstrong, Ill-J and Alvin Cornista, among others, Bituin dishes out some serious ear candy. "Ur Luv Thang" is a powerhouse collection of diverse materials; and Bituin takes charge from the very first note. Believe the hype. And let the celebration begin. Kalila Aguilos handled the album design. Bituin photographed herself for the album. For more album queries, contact The Thirdline Inc. at tel no. 426-0103 or 426-5301 or email thirdline@pacific.net.ph. "Ur Luv Thang" is presented by Crossover and Liquid Post. Album track listing: 01 Each Time We Say Goodbye: Bituin works this sensual groove with confidence. Heartbreak, fear of loss, and accountability are the themes this song runs through. 02 Hurts So Bad: Guitar driven and lilting, this sweet lament sees Bituin in a confessional frame of mind. The track features an introspective tune and an uplifting bridge. 03 Inconsiderate: A slow-sizzling blend of soul and reggae, this brooding piece features an irresistible groove, and some of Bituin's sweetest singing. An album highlight. 04 Just Let Go: One of the album's more urban-flavored tunes, featuring Dan Gil's groovy electric piano. This song is a relaxed R&B number with some laid-back organ riffs cooking in the mix. 05 Kung Wala Ka: The only Filipino track in the album, this heartbreaking ballad should remind everyone just what a formidable Bituin Escalante is - effortless phrasing and amazing control. The track features Alvin Cornista on alto sax. 06 Last Tango in Manila: Latin and hip hop meet in this fresh, dancy tune, featuring Ill-J. 07 Ur Luv Thang: Soul-flavored, funk-tinged and easygoing, this track features Bituin showing off her soul and blues influences, going through the entire range of dynamics. 08 Not A Care in the World: Sexy and thick as molasses, this song rolls along at a sensual pace with Bituin riding a wave of pure soul. 09 Right About You: This track plods on with a syncopated insistence and a strong R&B determination. 10 There's No Single Thing: Featuring the jazz guitar of Johnny Alegre, this is the album's fun offering. Bituin weaves her phrases through the sticky groove, trading lines with the guitar all the way. 11 What You Do: On this, Bituin's Neo-Soul tour de force, she shows everybody how it's done. Dan Gil's tenor sax and electric piano take the song to the heart of '70s soul; and Bituin lighthearted, celebratory singing makes this song another album highlight. DANCE and FILM in ‘Love Potion No. 9’ July 8, 2007 Airdance marries dance with film in ‘Love Potion No. 9’ premiering on July 14 at 8pm at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). Staged by dancer and filmmaker Paul Morales, the work takes a whimsical look at the idea of romance as seen from the vantage of Filipino movies. Live cameras, songs with singer-dancer AJ Bautista, and a short film are incorporated into the show highlighting the idea of how film experience affects our notions of love. Dance converses with film in this thought-provoking contemporary dance “gayuma.” “Love Potion No. 9” is based on the acclaimed recording of “PELIKULA at Pundaquit” which features classic and well-known musical scores for the stage and film by Cruz, Canseco, Bolipata and Abelardo as brought to life by siblings Alfonso and Chino Bolipata. “Love Potion No. 9” showcases the dancing of Jethro Pioquinto, Vincent Egido, John Phillip Martir, Ava Villanueva, Marielle Alonso, Clarissa Mijares, Honey Brendia-Moraga, Mia Cabalfin, Jed Amihan, Rhosam Prudenciado Jr., Victor Sy, Carlos Deriada, Johnny Amar, Paula Bautista and the choreographer Paul Morales. This production is part of the Wi-Fi Body2 Contemporary Dance Festival running July 12 – 15 at the CCP. This festival aims to celebrate and strengthen independent contemporary dance by encouraging new explorations in dance like “Love Potion No. 9,” presented on the choreographers’ platform. The festival site is at www.geocities.com/wifibody. “Love Potion No. 9” tickets are at PhP300 (PhP150 for students and senior citizens). For inquiries and tickets call Airdance at (632) 3733567 or TICKETWORLD at (632) 891-9999. You can also log on to http://www.airdance.com.ph High School Musical On Stage: A must-see musical for the whole family June 28, 2007 With a wholesome, entertaining plot dashed with memorable songs, an inspired direction from Audie Gemora, jaw-dropping choreography by Chinnie Nepomuceno, and startling performances from the cast led by teen heartthrob Sam Concepcion, STAGES and Trumpets Playshop's production of Disney's High School Musical (HSM), which runs weekends until July 15 at the Meralco Theater, proves to be the year's must-see musical for the whole family. "It was fantastic to see such young faces, all 40 of them, ruling the stage with so much enthusiasm," says music VJ Iya Villania, who watched the premiere of HSM. "It is definitely a great watch for the whole family." Indeed, celebrity parents like Jamie Rivera, Anthony and Maricel Pangilinan, Yayo Aguila, Vicky Belo, among others, enjoyed watching HSM with their children. Singers Bituin Escalante, Karylle, Raki Vega, Reymond Sajor, Carlo Orosa, Aaron Agassi, Khalil Kaimo, Paolo Valenciano and young TV hosts Princess Ryan and Edgar Allan Guzman were also spotted at the premiere. 14-year-old Sam Concepcion, who plays basketball jock-turned-stage actor Troy Bolton, delivered a solid performance by showing his mettle as an actor, singer, and dancer. He was exceptionally good in the song and dance spot cum basketball routine Get'cha Head in the Game. He also shared romantic moments with his leading lady Cheska Ortega, who, with her apparent charm and crystal clear voice, is perfect to play the role of the brainiac-turned-campus figure Gabriella Montez. Together, they sang beautiful duets like When There Was Me and You, Breaking Free, and I Can't Take My Eyes Off You. Alex Godinez, niece of Martin Nievera, proved that performing is truly in her genes as she exhibited her acting prowess taking on the role of the bratty Sharpay Evans, while TV personality PJ Valerio made an impressive theater debut as musical fanatic Ryan Evans. Celebs at the premiere     Iya Villania Carlo Orosa & Vicki Belo Jamie Rivera Maricel Laxa Raki Vega and Reymond Sajor Bituin Escalante Princess Ryan & Edgar Allan Guzman Yayo Aguila Karylle Theater actress Sheila Francisco, who received acclaims for her portrayal of Bloody Mary in the London staging of South Pacific, was sensational as the Drama Club Moderator Mrs. Darbus, while Jeff Arcilla dished-out a very sensitive, realistic performance as Coach Bolton. Greatly appreciated by the showgoers are the dance spots like Start of Something New, Stick to the Status Quo, We're All in this Together, and most especially, the mega-mix cum curtain call. Catch STAGES and Trumpets Playshop's production of Disney's "High School Musical On Stage" at the Meralco Theater weekends until July 15. For tickets, call Ticketworld at 891-9999 or STAGES at 818-1111 loc 209 or 225. Disney's "High School Musical On Stage" is made possible through special arrangement with Music Theatre International, and is presented by PLDT MyDSL and McDonald's, in cooperation with Alaska Yamoo, The Philippine Star and Bench. Major sponsors are Ponds, Studio 23 and Myx. Minor sponsors are Skechers, Purefoods, Bed Head, Papermate, SYSU, Oishi, Kiseki, K Zone, Total Girl, Hit FM, Magic 89.9, NU 107, Crossover, Click the City.Com and Yehey.Com. You may reach the writer at email: stages_pr@i-manila.com.ph or blog site: http://oliverpublicist.blogspot.com