Looks like June is going to be an exciting month as the show entitled "Top Class: The Rise to P-POP Stardom" starts airing on KUMU and TV5. Miss Universe Catriona Gray will be hosting the show together with Albie Casino and Yukii Takahashi who will be doing co-hosting duties and the online segment of the show.
Contestants were picked from thousands who auditioned for the show and to choose the right one for the job, they've got world class mentors KZ Tandingan, Shanti Dope and Brian Puspos who will be doing training for Singing, Rap and Dance in this promising reality show.
Only 30 talented male trainees will become finalists and Filipinos will be in the front seat to see who among these aspirants deserve the top spot as they battle it out to become P-POP's best offering to the world stage.
You may follow them on TOP CLASS' official social channels like Facebook, IG, Twitter, TikTok and KUMU. They will be holding classes at NU Laguna, and it'll be epic when they announce the names of those who qualified for the epic show. This is produced by Kumu, TV5, Cignal Entertainment and Cornerstone Entertainment so you can only expect the best to happen on Philippine TV.
Who will be the next P-POP rising star? Ooh I can't wait to see who wins!
I was excited, let alone impressed that the girls from CALISTA was having a concert in Araneta Coliseum last April 26, 2022 in Quezon City. I was also glad that Liza, Denise, Anne, Dain, Elle and Olive would finally have their debut as a girl group, they've been working for years just for this... and they deserved that crowd that attended event called "VAX TO NORMAL" which they dedicated to frontliners during the pandemic. The pre-show was good as they started with several talented singers from Tyrone Escalante Artist Management.
Then the show started.
The stage was something off international concerts, I felt that if this is just the introduction of CALISTA to what will happen in the future, they'll surely be a force to be reckoned with in the PPOP and international pop scene. They did their latest single RACE CAR which they launched a month ago.
Yeng Constantino started it with a rock vibe singing a few of her songs including "Chinito" and 'We Will Rock You" which is a cover song from Queen (loved the setup with Calista). Elmo Magalona did a sentimental rap number singing songs of his Dad the late Francis M. Good looking dance prince Kenneth San Jose was a discovery, he was intense and impressed A LOT of people during his bit. I must admit, I'm a fan now of that guy. They brought out CALISTA's knack for performing, these are different genres they are playing with but they definitely making a mark in the first few minutes of the show.
Stars in their own right, Darren Espanto was oozing with appeal as he made strides on the dance floor together with the ladies of Calista. The dance showdown with AC Bonifacio was also exciting, it made me think we've got a really good future ahead of us in terms of artistry because at this age, they're really very spirited dancers. Andrea Brillantes on the other hand was super fun to look at, extra bubbly and even enjoyed the dance number with Calista. She also endorse Leni Robredo by simply showing her outfit to the crowd, it's pink and that's a plus in my books! All in all, we've got a gem in our hands with Calista. They've proved with this concert that the Filipino is indeed world class! I don't know what's going to be next for Calista, but judging from their answers in the short press conference they had after the concert.... they're doing something even bigger in the next few months. I hope you get to follow them on their social channels so you can get to know them even more. They're continuing to inspire more teens to follow their dreams, I want to see them do international festivals and concerts because this one that they did in Araneta needs to be seen elsewhere. If you want to see clips of the concert, head on to my TikTok account, just search @kumagcow.
Here's a clip of their interview after the show!
Congratulations on conquering the Araneta Coliseum CALISTA! I'm sure this is just the start!
Looks like you're going to be treated to a dance off unlike no other as Catriona Gray hosts the search for the next P-POP Icon called TOP CLASS.
This afternoon, we got to talk to Brian Puspos, the dance mentor for the competition. He's a Houston based guy, part of SoReal Cru and Mos Wanted Crew who landed runner up and third in America's Best Dance Crew on its Second and Seventh season. He's a deadly choreographer and worked with the likes of Justin Bieber, Chris Brown and several K-POP acts (oh you know who they are) just to name a few.
Brian says "It means the world to me, being a Filipino American, we've been in the forefront of dance and this program will get Filipinos to reach their dreams. This is what it means for me. Having the discipline to work very very hard, it's what I'm looking for. Working with the KPOP stars, I've seen how hard they work, how much they put into their craft, but Filipinos have a knack to go beyond that. It's special because this is brand new, I'm excited. It's amazing I've seen very talented PPOP groups, I would love to work with my people and hopefully get to see them in the Philippines soon. I'm really grateful for this opportunity. It's given me confidence to work with Chris Brown who saw and reached out a couple times and it was really cool to be commended by megastars commending our work. BTS stood out because I also saw how hard they work, in everything they do, the work ethic is something that I really respect, which I hope to expect with the contestants of Top Class too. Filipinos are some of the best dancers in the world, I hope they continue to learn and grow. For me, I also have much more to learn and I look forward to do that in the dance community in the country. I'll be there in June, I always go there like once a year so I'm pretty familiar with the place. I think I've learned a lot in Texas, the time is now to take the leap and I'm pursuing this. Pour out your heart on stage, think of it as the last thing you'll do every time you do that. If you have insecurities, pick yourself up, get it out of your head, as dance will make you confident."
He adds "My parents were ballroom dancers who compete, I kinda absorbed that trait when I was a kid. I guess I was inspired by them. I've been preparing for this role my whole dance life, I fell that I am ready and credible to be mentoring Top Class, I'm ready to work. Any superstar or celebrity I worked with. Being in a couple reality shows, I've seen how mentors became really good behind the camera. I'm going to be an educator, to make everyone be better. That's what I'm here for."
By the way, today is the last day to submit your audition videos, if you haven't yet please do because this is a big opportunity especially for dance fanatics, if you are part of crews who have been in the Philippine contest scene for a long time.
This show is brought to you by KUMU, CS Entertainment, TV5 and Cignal.
When an artist undergoes workshops, it usually means they'll be learning more about singing, dancing, interacting with other actors and acting. A few days ago, an unconventional one happened virtually with no less than the award winning journalist and broadcaster Howie Severino.
Mr. Severino held a masterclass about Baybayin which is an acient writing system. He's very passionate about teaching this to others as people reading and writing it remains scarce. He says "I'm very happy that I get to meet all of you, not just because you are artists, but you are also culture bearers. You carry our identities as Filipinos, it's a good thing you're learning how to do Baybayin. You get to be looked up to by generations that kept the writing form alive. It's a huge undertaking but we have to start somewhere, now that includes you!"
This is part of GMA Artist Center's efforts called "Ang Breakout Room: Masterclass Series" which they'll be doing on a regular basis for home grown artists and celebrities. Artists who were included in the roster included First Lady Sanya Lopez, the beloved Farrah in Legal Wives Bianca Umali, Kyline Alcantara who probably is being swooned by Mavy Legaspi, Lexi Gonzales who just released a single, Radson Flores and Matt Lozano who's excited for Voltes V Legacy, artists Claire Castro, Royce Cabrera, Zonia Mejia, Jamir Zabarte, Joaquin Manansala, Jen Maravilla, Jr Royol, Migs Villasis, Hannah Arguelles, Bryce Eusebio, Gab Yabut, Elias Point, Allen Ansay, Lia Salvador, Dentrix Ponce, Dave Duque, Kirsten Gonzales, Kimson Tan, Lime Aranya, Levince Sotto and Rain Matienzo all learned the ropes in how to read and write with Baybayin just on that day.
Howie also shared how this would impact their families, their community and the next generation. I wonder what GMA Artist Center has under their sleeves after this one. It sounds so exciting!
TheShop.ph team showing the ropes on how to navigate at the new MarikinaShoes.theshop.ph website.
We've marveled at the craftsmanship of the people of Marikina. As a shoeholic, I've seen countless foot wear made by local craftsmen in the city and yes, they're probably some of the best in the world. The generations of families that are all based here perhaps made Marikina the shoe capital of the Philippines and with fervor, they're going to be dipping their hands into something new. Specifically, it's e-commerce and what countless possibilities it could provide to not just business owners, but to craftsmen and their families. They're going to improve lives and communities, how you say? It's with the help of LBC Express Inc.’s TheShop.ph.
Mayor Del De Guzman and the LBC The Shop's Team
Mayor Del De Guzman and Marikina based MASIDO Shoe Manufacturers
LBC Express Inc.’s TheShop.ph partnered with MASIDO or Marikina Shoe Industry Development Office and the local government of Marikina City to launch the newest online shop MarikinaShoes.theshop.ph. Now, you'll be able to see 8 real deal Marikina based manufacturers here and it's all because they want the local shoe industry to flourish in the next few years. Getting the word out and maintain it in cyberspace would get exposure to a larger audience, an international one, isn't that a great idea?
MASIDO Technical Consultant Noel Box, Marikina City Councilor and Marikina Shoe Industry Development (MASID) Council Vice Chairman Mario de Leon and Marikina City Mayor and MASID Council Chairman Del de Guzman.
Mayor Del Deguzman and Marikina City Councilor Mario de Leon says "We are thankful for this collaboration with TheShop.ph by LBC. Through them, not only we will be reintroduced internationally, but this will also help our industry. We will be with you every step of the way in moving your products forward. We are not just going to deliver shoes, but also smiles to your customers doorsteps." He also assures their partner manufacturers that they will be with them in this journey, that's something really reassuring.
Looks like these international quality shoes are now heading their way to Asian homes, soon the world. I've seen several to my liking which includes the ones made of genuine buffalo and cow leather, the classic Spanish era looking ones and some boots. This will probably grow in the coming months and years, plus with the world class facilities that LBC has to deliver these all in your homes, there's great promise that you're not only going to get great shoes but help Marikina go out there and be the shoe capital of the world!
Congratulations to all the manufacturer partners of http://marikinashoes.theshop.ph! I can't wait to see those shoes on my doorstep soon!
I've been able to sit down and enjoy wine a few days ago at Sofitel Manila. It's a 5 star hotel and going here has always been a magnifique time for me, my friends and family. Sofitel's buffet destination Spiral has been the unprecedented number 1 dining destination and has been proven in various review sites internationally. Today, I'm sharing with you some scenes of the "Private Wine and Cheese Pairing" class I participated in last week. It involved a lot of introduction to wine, champagne, and what food or cheese products were needed to be paired with it. It started with the ceremonial champagne bottle opening using a saber, much like Napoleon would be doing it in his time. Check this video out!
Sofitel around the world is celebrating "Sofitel Wine Days" to pay homage to the harvest season. People from the wine regions in France are now taking time to celebrate their good year and with that happening, people in the Philippines should never be far behind. It's also Sofitel's 50th Anniversary so if that isn't enough reason to celebrate, I don't know what will.
Spiral was dreamy as usual and I sat down on one of their private rooms to wait for the others to come. I tried some of their D Light drinks through test tube sample servings, I loved the Berry mix and the peach flavored one.
This was the part where we started off getting a saber and the champagne bottles opened. Pretty neat right? Nikita Conwi of RX93.1 had fun doing this. Did you know Champagne only comes from the town in France? If it's not from France, it's just what they call Sparkling Wine :) This fact is part of the things I learned that evening.
To pair off with the really great wines like Jaboulet Aine, Castillero del Diablo (part of the many new world and old world wines) you should have this freshly seared Foie Gras in every dinner experience in Spiral.
The favorite that evening was the Woodbridge. The rosy wines are quite sweet and fresh, a favorite in the summer. Since we have summer all year long in the Philippines, we can have this all the time! Now that's good news. This is also their best seller, apart from the regular ones they have on the menu. Another discovery is the local Dragon Fruit wine which is very nice, it's on the menu so I suggest you try that out too.
Spiral's Cheese Room has never been equaled because of the variety that they have inside. They have Wine and Cheese pairing sessions so if you dig that instead of just wine, you can have that class instead. They have regional wine evenings that would give you in depth understanding of your favorite wine varieties and see how it came to be in the places they are from. They have a "From Grapes to Wine Expo" happening from October 26-31, 2014 with degustation from 5:30PM to 6PM. You can get 25% off on Hugel & Fils wines if you dine in Sofitel's Spiral and La Veranda. The "Private Wine and Cheese Class" happens at the Spiral L'epicerie (Cheese Room) from October 27-31, 2014 at 4:30PM to 5:30PM. They'll whisk you off to a journey in Bordeaux, Burgundy, Alsace, Rhone Valley, Languedoc-Rousillon on those days and only costs Php 1500.00 per person.
You can also opt for the Spiral Wine Cellar experience all October as Sofitel's sommeliers pick monthly and yearly packages tailored to your taste and budget. There's also "Jazz and Wine: An Austrian and French Affair on the 29th of October at 7PM. They'll be flying in Austria's Michaela Rabitsch and Robert Pawlik. I think the Austrian ambassador will be there as well so if you're up to a day of culture, this would be perfect. You'll see a concert, drink wine, Cheese and canapes prepared especially for the occasion. On the 30th, Le Bar will be hosting the Wine and Cheese Buffet with experts coming from different regions. They will also have a Burgundy Wine Dinner on the 31st, at 7PM featuring a 5 course French terroir dinner made by artisans in Sofitel Manila. They will be featuring wines from Champagne Henriot, Chablis Willam Fevre and Burgundy Bouchard Pere et Fils. It's time you treat yourself, your friends and family to something special. Make that Sofitel Manila moment by calling 8326988 or email h6308-fb12@sofitel.com because Life is Magnifique!
Pouring a glass of wine or champagne feels so right. Celebrating special moments with friends and family, that's just bliss! A few nights ago, we went to Sofitel Manila's Spiral and got a special Wine Appreciation Class by their Somellier's. I've been educated quite a bit from cooking, dining and tasting events; but this one really schooled me. They also delved on wine pairing and taught us a thing or two about regions where these rich, liquid wonders come from.. and how we all can enjoy it!
First things first, we had to take note of our own experience so they handed us over a pamphlet containing all the names of the wine we're about to taste. Seeing the terminologies indicated on the bottles was already making me a little dizzy. My French language class didn't come into effect here but I was in the right path understanding Burgundy, it's Merlot and the region of Bordeaux.
Then we had a short briefing on how the sections were divided inside Spiral
Damien Marchenay, a Frenchman leads Sofitel's Wine experts (who are also French) as F&B Director of Sofitel Manila's Spiral
Burgundy and Bordeaux are regions in France. If the term is used on bottles, it basically means that the wine produced is from that region. This goes the same with Alsace, Champagne, Jura, Languedoc-Roussillon, Loire Valley, Lorraine, Madiran, Provence, Rhône and Savoie. There are also some sub regions and smaller ones inside these areas but I'll bore you if I include that. It goes the same with other wine producing countries.
We didn't start off with Western wine though.
They showed us one of the more popular brands of Sake (rice wine) from Japan. The Japanese Chef went out and explained to us that they have special ones made by small Sake masters in their region. They have special rice grains that grows in the same place which they get this from. There are families that have done this for ages and he's proud of its heritage. He also showed us some photos from his hometown and said you can still see the artisans do it even in these modern times. It was really good. He mentions this particular Sake should be served cold. Otherwise, they have sake bottles that are usually dipped in street food containers that regularly sells it on his neighborhood. Rustic, but very nice and smooth.
Then we proceeded to another section of Spiral's ateliers. This is on the Western Section.
Bouchard Pere & Fils is a Pinot Noir from Burgundy dated 2011. It's red and fruity, can be paired with red meat or even pizzas if you dare.
Dourthe No.1 AOC Rouge from Bordeaux, France dated 2011. Deeper red, very intense and a bit bitter. It's smells good and it can be paired with cheese room favorites and cold cuts. Mmm....
Then off to the Asian Ateliers we went!
Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc, this one's from New Zealand and dated 2012. It's got really nice colors, pale yellow that's got a hint of pale green. It's a bit floral, sweet smelling and has got a touch of fruitiness on the aftertaste. Complex, yes, but I still like it.
AIX Rose from Coteaux D'Aix En Provence France. It has pink hues or a tint of salmon color. Intense, smelled like sweet flowers. It's got a bit of acidity but our somellier says this comes from his region. He admits that he doesn't drink everyday but if its a special occasion, they usually drink this with tons of ice in a large glass. Then they chill around and do what normal people do. Oh by the way, our great Somellier that evening is Tanguy (pronounced Tawnjee) who is a Restaurant Manager in Sofitel. Pretty darn nice chap!
AIX is also available in huge bottles. It's perfect for parties or large dinners. You can also choose from among 150 variants of wines in their cellars. It's already chilled and they're just waiting for you to grab it.
Madfish is a Shiraz from Australia dated 2009. This one is my favorite among the more stronger wines in the bunch. It's rich and dark. A bit oaky and a tad bitter. I like that more on wines. It can be paired with some Asian dishes of the more spicy-savory flavors. Still perfect for red meats.
Then we had something for Desserts.
This one is the most mouthful to pronounce. It's got German origins. This is the Alsace Gewürztraminer dated 2011. Intensely spicy on its notes. If you're having chocolates, nuts or just about anything sweet, this is a pretty good pair for that. Contrary to what I was trying to see before, wines are supposed to be paired opposite of what it actually tastes like. If you have something intensely flavored, get something more subtle for a wine. Then if you have something not that complex, get some sweeter wine and you'll be fine.
On the last part, we were all surprised that there are actually local Philippine made wines on their list. Refmad Dragonfruit Wine, Adam's Bugnay Wine and Dielles Melomel Fruit Brand Wine. Most Filipinos LOVE the Refmad Dragonfruit Wine. I on the other hand love the Dielles Melomel because it had Guyabano in it. It's exotic and really good in my humble opinion. I'd highly recommend that or the Shiraz if you are after something more intense.
As they say, nobody can really tell which one is the best because everybody else has their own standards. It's truly debatable and depends on the person holding up the wine glass. I made that statement up LOL. Anyway, there is some kind of truth to that right? You be the judge. Go on and have dinner or lunch at Sofitel Manila's Spiral. The Wine Appreciation Classes are available on Sunday brunches so make sure you ask and be scheduled on those days.
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