MANILA, Philippines—Ogie Alcasid’s 20th anniversary concert at the Big Dome had the right mix of fun and sentimentality. He exactly knows the kiliti of his audience.
Even in such a huge venue, it seemed like an up-close and personal encounter. Ogie has a way of reaching out to every single person watching him. His sincerity cuts through each song. His spontaneity makes you feel instantly at home so you don’t notice time passing by. The Alcasid charisma puts you on a daze.
I particularly enjoyed Ogie’s number with Janno Gibbs. The “Small Brothers” reminisced about their friendship and partnership in crime through their wacky yet heartwarming version of Apo’s “Awit ng Barkada.”
Rufa Mae Quinto, Michael V and Ogie brought the house down with their ’80s medley as they impersonated Madonna, Prince, Wham, Cyndi Lauper and Michael Jackson. Pandemonium broke loose when Piolo Pascual sang. He thanked Ogie for being his vocal coach and mentor in singing.
Highlighting the night was Ogie’s song for his parents which he composed and his touching rendition of “I Will Be Here” for his daughters. The eldest, Sarah, joined him onstage but his bunso Leila was too shy to do so. Ogie’s ex Michelle Van Eimeren couldn’t hold back her tears while Ogie was serenading their kids.
“Thank you, Michelle, for being there when I’m not,” he said. They are living proof that there can be friendship after marriage.
Ogie also thanked Michelle’s BF Mark Murrow who was with her. “You’re now tabloid material, Mark,” Ogie ribbed. He introduced Regine Velasquez as his leading lady for life. She had no dramatic message for Ogie. Their sweet photos flashed onstage already said everything she could not say.
If only all celeb ex-couples could be like Ogie and Michelle, then show biz would be a more peaceful place. Even non-show biz couples could learn a thing or two from them about the art of letting go.
I congratulated Ogie after his concert via text. His reply: “It’s the happiest day of my life! I’m thankful to God for making everything fall into place.”
He will set aside time to bond with his kids before they fly back to Australia.
Ogie has truly lived LOVE to the fullest. It shows in his songs. His “20/20” sold-out concert made my heart have 20/20 vision.
Concert repeat
Some good things are worth repeating. Just like premier classical balladeer Bo Cerrudo’s “Love … Around the World,” which will be staged once again at the Captain’s Bar of Mandarin Oriental on Oct. 3 and 4 (750-8888 loc. 2446). His special guest is Sen. Chiz Escudero’s lovely wife Christine.
Together with the rhythm ensemble of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, they will perform well-loved songs from different countries. Let Bo take your heart on a trip. Fasten your heartstrings!
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