“Here’s to the ones who dream
Foolish as they may seem
Here’s to the hearts that ache
Here’s to the mess we make…
And here’s to the fools who dream
Crazy as they may seem
Here’s to the hearts that break
Here’s to the mess we make…”
– “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)”/La La Land
Have you ever had a dream so big that you were afraid to think about it? Have you ever felt overwhelmed by just one dream? And then just when you thought it was too far for you to reach, it’s right in front of you. Just an arm’s length away. But you realize that you still have to work hard; to give your all, so you can finally hold everything in the palm of your hand.
This was what happened to Kagay-anons Shaun Pilapil, Rachelle Nazareno, Arthur Nery, and Rupert Nellas when they first found out that they passed the auditions for the 2017 World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA). Founded in 1996 by Griff O’Neil, WCOPA is considered the “Olympics of the Performing Arts” or the “Talent Olympics for Aspiring Performers”. Every year, the finest performers from all over the world gather to compete in the singing, acting, dancing, modeling, variety, and instrumentalists categories. These performers were chosen after an arduous screening process that followed strict WCOPA guidelines.
The first Filipino to win as Grand Champion Performer of the World was Jed Madela. His win was followed by victories of several other Filipinos, including singers Rhap Salazar and Jonalyn Viray. Last year, the dance group JR New System was named the 2016 Senior Grand Champion Performer of the World. In June and July this year, team Philippines will once again attempt to bring home medals and the Grand Champion honor. Shaun, Rachelle, Arthur, and Rupert will be part of that team.
However, the road is still long and bumpy. There are challenges they need to pass, and one of these is the financial requirements of the competition. It has not been easy trying to look for Kagay-anons willing to help out their fellowmen. But, the four artists are not about to give up. This is the opportunity they have long waited for, so they will do everything they can to fulfill their dreams.
Shaun will compete in the acting category while Rachelle, Arthur, and Rupert will join the singing category competitions.
To help them gather funds, Oro Teatro Bulawanon, a theater group that brought to life the story of “Reyna Elena” last year, is staging a musical variety show. Aptly titled “Here’s to the Dreamers”, the show will be this Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 7pm. Venue is Golden Stallion Suites along 21st and 27th Streets in Nazareth. Special guests like Jeremiah Torayno ( team Philippines medalist for WCOPA 2016), Muriel Lomadilla, and Gerikha Amper, will also be performing in the show.
This variety show is supported by The VIP Hotel. Andre Lyle G. Alay did the arrangement of some of the minus ones to be used in the show.
Tickets for “Here’s to the Dreamers” are available for only Php100. Text or call 0917-8708792 for reservations and inquiries. Tickets will also be sold at the venue. Likewise, donation boxes will be displayed there for those who wish to give more.
“Here’s to the Dreamers” is a tribute to all the brave dreamers who continue working hard to fulfill their dreams. It is for the dreamers who never lose hope despite failing several times. It is for all the dreamers who believe that their star is within an arm’s reach and can be theirs someday.
If you believe in dreams, and in Kagay-anons and the Filipino talent, you will join us and watch our show. Make “Here’s to the Dreamers” your pre-Valentine date with friends and loved ones and be entertained by some of CDO’s best talents. You won’t only have fun with songs, music, stories, and dances, you’ll also get the chance to play a significant role in helping fulfill some Kagay-anon’s dreams.
So, see you on February 11 at Golden Stallion Suites. Cheers to all the dreamers out there! This one is for you!
Cheers to all the dreamers out there! This one is for you!
(Poster photos by Aicy Soriano.)