IN the first 13 episodes of fan-favorite comedy-musical series "Glee," the ups and downs of teen life translate into melodic mash-ups and energetic covers of recent and classic pop-rock favorites, as sung by the unpopular but gifted glee club New Directions.

The weekly series created by Ryan Murphy ("Nip/Tuck") continues to click with music-loving youngsters and grownups alike, recently winning a Golden Globe for Best Television Series (Musical or Comedy), and a Screen Actors Guild award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.

New Directions' beloved underdogs aren't an ordinary bunch. While some of its members may not belong to the with-it cliques-and some of the once-popular have become outcasts by osmosis-the group is undeniably talented, and is continuously motivated by the indefatigable teacher Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison).

Menaced regularly by cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch), the young singers have survived her sneaky acts of sabotage, and even won the sectionals.

But the victory is short-lived. In the eagerly anticipated new episode, new love interests and rivalries are introduced, while the members of New Directions face the recharged villainy of Sue. Diva-in-training Rachel (Lea Michele) meets a similarly ambitious singer, Jesse (Jonathan Groff), from a rival group. Meanwhile, the other kids are still disrespected by the mean girls and bullies, but continue to prove themselves in show-stopping song-and-dance numbers.

While the Will-Sue feud has escalated and gotten quite tedious, the young misfits' all-too-familiar drama-from self-worth issues to romantic entanglements-continue to inspire pop, rock and R&B renditions that audibly flavor every episode. From timeless tunes by The Doors, Cyndi Lauper, John Lennon and Madonna, to hits by Beyoncé, Avril Lavigne and Rihanna, the song selection provides a rich, evolving soundtrack that transcends generations. An episode devoted to all-original music is reportedly in the works.

In this era of instant gratification and changing perceptions on stardom, "Glee" reiterates the importance of hard work, creativity and teamwork. The show is already a unique platform for arts awareness; hopefully, upcoming storylines will be approached more inventively. The production numbers continue to improve, and it's only a matter of time before the show truly pushes the envelope.

"Glee" airs Wednesdays, 4 p.m. (Jack TV and ETC), 8 p.m. (Jack TV), and 10 p.m. (ETC).

Comedy-variety show
"I Laugh Sabado," Q Channel 11's newest comedy-variety show on Saturdays at 8:30 p.m., brings gags, sketches, and skits that make fun of politics, show biz, and everyday Pinoy life.
It is hosted by an ensemble of comedians and character actors-Wally Bayola, Paolo Paraiso, Gee Canlas, Jana Dominguez, Jan Manual, Alfred Marquez and Archie Alemania-directed by Bibeth Orteza.

Citizens patrol

Citizen journalists from ABS-CBN's "Boto Mo, iPatrol Mo (BMPM): Ako ang Simula" election campaign join a nationwide call today to push for vigilance in the coming May 10 national elections.
The patrollers report on the current situation in their communities today, the last BMPM day of the election season, on ABS-CBN and ANC, the ABS-CBN News Channel (SkyCable channel 27).
News correspondents from ABS-CBN will also report live from Pampanga, Cebu and Davao, where booths will be set up for aspiring BMPM members.

Dating game

Patti Stanger is back for a second season of "The Millionaire Matchmaker" on Fridays at 10 on ETC.
With her business booming, Stanger is now at the top of her game as owner of Los Angeles' most notorious elite dating service.
In each episode, two wealthy clients are set up on dates handpicked by Stanger based on their beauty and intelligence.
Together with her staff, she gives big-spending clients complete transformations with the help of personal shoppers, date coaches and therapists.