Eraserheads surprise fans with an intimate live performance at sold-out ‘Combo On The Run’ screening

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Moviegoers were in for a special treat as the legendary Filipino rock band Eraserheads delivered a surprise live performance during a sold-out screening of Eraserheads: Combo On The Run at a mall last night.

The multi-awarded band wowed the unsuspecting audience with a six-set song, performing some of their biggest hits, including “Superproxy,” “Combo on the Run,” “Alapaap,” “Spoliarium,” “Pare Ko,” and “Magasin.”

The pop-up performance was part of an initiative to reward devoted fans and rekindle the magic of in-theater experiences, encouraging audiences to support moviegoing culture in an era dominated by streaming. 

As previously announced, the band is set to make select appearances in cinemas in the coming days to further fuel the excitement for the documentary film’s nationwide run.

Now open in more than 150 theaters nationwide, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run has received widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. Billboard Philippines praised the film for being a “testament to the relatable human experience of finding healing and reconnecting with those who were once close to us.” Meanwhile, Pelikula Mania gave it a 4.5 out of 5 stars, calling it a “perfect tribute to an original Pinoy music icon.”

Directed by Diane Ventura, the documentary offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the iconic Ang Huling El Bimbo reunion concert of 2022, unfolding against the turbulent backdrop of political division and the lingering uncertainty of the post-pandemic era. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the film takes audiences on a captivating odyssey through the band’s stories history, challenges, and triumphs.

Adding to the excitement, the film teased the moviegoers and fans during the end credits when it announced details of the band’s upcoming show, ERASERHEADS: ELECTRIC FUN MUSIC FESTIVAL. Set to be staged at SMDC Festival Grounds in Pasay City on May 31, 2025, the upcoming event promises to be another epic celebration of the band’s enduring legacy.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is brought to you by DVent Pictures and WEU, and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.

For ticket availability and screening schedules, visit your local cinemas. Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be available on theaters nationwide from March 21-23, 2025.

Hiligaynon full-length film Salum and Mindanaoan short film Champ Green shine bright at the Puregold CinePanalo 2025 awards night

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Hiligaynon full-length film Salum directed by TM Malones and Mindanaoan short film Champ Green were honored the top prizes in their respective categories at the second edition of the wildly successful Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival.

At the awarding ceremony, held on March 19 at The Elements, Eton Centris in Quezon City, Salum took home four Puregold CinePanalo trophies in the full-length category namely: Panalong Pelikula, Panalo sa Production Design, Panalo sa Sound Design, and Panalo sa Musical Scoring as well as a cash prize of PhP 250,000. Meanwhile, Champ Green received a PhP 100,000 cash prize and five trophies in the student shorts category including Panalong Maikling Pelikula, Panalong Pangalawang Aktor for Sol Eugenio, Panalo sa Kwento, Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, and Mowelfund Special Citation.

In addition, Champ Green, being the students shorts winner, also won film equipment including a Black Mist ⅛, a Dream Filter, a Blue Lightstreak Filter from MFP Rentals and Kase Philippines; a Nanlite FC 60B with Merch from MQ Group and Nanlite Philippines; and a Hollyland Lark C1 Wireless Microphone from Sieztech Enterprize and Hollyland Tech Philippines. Champ Green also won an extra PHP25,000 for winning the Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, as did fellow short film G! and full-length film Journeyman who won the same award; as well as Checkmate and Taympers, who similarly tied for Pinakapanalong Promosyon ng Pelikula. Each of these sponsors gladly awarded Champ Green with the equipment in order to support the development of young Filipino filmmakers such as Champ Green director Clyde Cuizon Gamale.

JP Habac was named Panalong Direktor (Best Director) for his work on Olsen’s Day at Puregold CinePanalo 2025.

The Panalong Aktor (Best Actor) for the full-length category was awarded to Khalil Ramos (Olsen’s Day). He shares this award with JP Larroder (Tigkiliwi).

The Mowelfund Special Citation was awarded to Olsen’s Day in the full-length category.

Talented actress Alexa Ilacad, who stars in Co-Love, at the Puregold CinePanalo 2025.

Tigkiliwi takes home the Panalong Karangalan mula sa Hurado for the full-length category. 

Director Tara Illenberger proudly receives the Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Hurado (Jury Prize) for Tigkiliwi at Puregold CinePanalo 2025.

In the full-length category, another Hiligaynon film Tigkiliwi nabbed seven trophies including Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Hurado and Panalo sa Kwento for its writer-director Tara Illenberger. The charming film about a community of misfits swept the acting awards categories including Panalong Aktres for Ruby Ruiz, and Panalong Pangalawang Aktor for Jeffrey Jiruma. 

In an interesting turn of events, two ties were declared during the awards night. The Panalong Aktor trophy was shared between JP Larroder as Tigkiliwi’s Tata, and Khalil Ramos as the titular Olsen in Olsen’s Day while both Journeyman and Olsen’s Day were declared the winners of the Panalo sa Cinematography category. Meanwhile, JP Habac of Olsen’s Day bagged the Panalong Direktor award.

Journeyman by the sibling-tandem of Christian Paolo and Dominic Lat took home a total of six trophies namely: Panalo Sa International Jury, Panalo sa Cinematography (tie with Olsen’s Day), Panalo sa Film Poster, the MTRCB Special Award for Responsableng Paglikha, Panalo sa Brand Intrusion, and the Puregold Always Panalo Film which it shared with the romantic-comedy film Fleeting by Catsi Catalan.

For the student shorts, Uwian, directed by Panalong Direktor winner Vhan Marco Molacruz of Colegio de San Juan de Letran crushed the competition, winning five different awards including Panalong Direktor, Panalo sa Musical Scoring, Panalo sa Production Design, Panalong Aktres for Geraldine Villamil, and Panalong Pangalawang Aktres for Uzziel Delamide.

Other notable entries to the student shorts category included Sean Rafael Verdejo’s absurdist dramedy Dela Cruz, Juan P., which took home Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Hurado; as well as Ira Corinne Esguerra’s coming-of-age sibling story SamPie, which took home the Puregold Always Panalo Film award.

Each award was deliberated upon by an impressive lineup of qualified judges, including Festival Director Christopher Cahilig, Festival Chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, and Republic Creative Creations, Inc. representative Sonny Bautista, each of whom sat on both the student shorts and full-length jury panels. Joining them on the students shorts panel were directors Emmanuel Dela Cruz and Victor Villanueva, as well as film critic Lito Zulueta. The full-length jury panel, on the other hand, consisted of Cahilig, Hayagan-Piedad, and Bautista, as well as directors Jeffrey Jeturian and Mae Cruz-Alviar, writer and producer Moira Lang, and Estonian filmmaker Tiina Lokk, the festival director of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.

This year’s CinePanalo saw increased grants for all entries, with PHP 3,000,000 grants for full-length entries, and P150,000 grants for student shorts. The festival was also supported in large part by its partner organizations ​​Terminal Six Post, CMB Film Services Inc., Gateway Cineplex 18, MFP Rentals, the MTRCB,  and the Mowelfund Film Institute.

Puregold Senior Marketing Manager and Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad and Festival Director Christopher Cahilig

“The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival will always be fueled by a deep love for the art of cinema, and an even deeper ambition to show what Philippine talent and passion has to offer,” said Festival Chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad. “With the CinePanalo having reached a successful second edition, the possibilities are now endless. We can’t wait for all the wonderful films yet to grace the Puregold CinePanalo in all the years to come.”

Salum, Champ Green, and all the other full-length and student short films of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2025 will continue to screen exclusively at the Gateway Cineplex 18, Cubao, Quezon City until the closing of the festival on March 25. Regular tickets are P250, with discounts available for students, PWDs, seniors, Tindahan ni Aling Puring, and Perks Card members for P200. Meanwhile, festival passes for the entire experience cost P2,000, granting holders entrance to all official movie entries.

Young filmmakers pose with Festival Director and award-winning filmmaker, Chris Cahilig.

 

FULL LIST OF WINNERS:

Pinakapanalong Pelikula

Full-Length: Salum (TM Malones)

Student Shorts: Champ Green (Clyde Cuizon Gamale)

 

Puregold Always Panalo Film

Full-Length: Journeyman (Christian Paolo Lat & Dominic Lat), Fleeting (Catsi Catalan)

Student Shorts: Sampie, (Ira Corinne Esquerra Malit)

 

Panalong Direktor

Full-Length: JP Habac, Olsen’s Day

Student Shorts: Vhan Marco B. Molacruz, Uwian

 

Panalong Aktres

Full-Length: Ruby Ruiz as Nay Pansay, Tigkiliwi

Student Shorts: Geraldine Villamil as Remy, Uwian

 

Panalong Aktor

Full-Length:

Khalil Ramos as Olsen, Olsen’s Day

JP Larroder as Tata, Tigkiliwi

Student Shorts: 

Lucas Martin as Sam, SamPie

Jasper John as Juan Dela Cruz, Dela Cruz, Juan P.

 

Panalong Karangalan Mula sa Mga Hurado

Full-Length: Tigkiliwi (Tara Illenberger)

Student Shorts: Dela Cruz, Juan P. (Sean Rafael A. Verdejo)

 

Panalo Sa Mga Manonood

Full-Length: Co-Love (Jill Singson Urdaneta)

Student Shorts: Sisenta! (Mae Malaya)

 

Panalong Pangalawang Aktres

Full-Length: Gabby Padilla as Marlin, Tigkiliwi

Student Shorts: Uzziel Delamide as Imang, Uwian

 

Panalong Pangalawang Aktor

Full-Length: Jeffrey Jiruma as Pol, Tigkiliwi

Student Shorts: Sol Eugenio as Tekbong, Champ Green

 

Panalong Ensemble

Full-Length: Tigkiliwi (Tara Illenberger)

Student Shorts: Sine-Sine (Roniño Dolim)

 

Panalong Kwento

Full-Length: Tara Illenberger, Tigkiliwi

Student Shorts: Clyde Cuizon Gamale, Champ Green

 

Panalo sa Cinematography

Full-Length: 

Dominic Lat, Journeyman

Kara Moreno, Olsen’s Day

Student Shorts: Lance Lascano, Dan, En Pointe

 

Panalo sa Production Design

Full-Length: Kyle Fermindoza, Salum

Student Shorts: Andrea Jayne Perang, Uwian

 

Panalo sa Musical Scoring

Full-Length: Armor Rapista, Salum

Student Shorts: Len Calvo, Uwian

 

Panalo sa Editing

Full-Length: Vanessa Ubas de Leon, Co-Love

Student Shorts: Jose Andy Sales, G!

 

Panalo sa Sound Design

Full-Length: Fatima Nerikka Salim and Immanuel Verona, Salum

Student Shorts: Elian Idioma, Dela Cruz, Juan P.

 

Panalong Awitin

Full-Length: “DI KO PINILI” by Kiko Salazar, performed by KD Estrada, Co-Love

Student Shorts: “Suga, Camera, Saad” by Jonathan Rey Sartorio and Lloyd Martin Villacortes Arce, performed by Jonathan Rey “ROTT” Sartorio, Sine-Sine

 

Panalo sa Brand Intrusion

Full-Length: Journeyman (555 Sardines and Lucky Me!)

Student Shorts: Champ Green (Bear Brand), G! (Chuckie)

 

Panalo sa Film Poster

Full-Length: Journeyman by Christian Paolo Lat and Dominic Lat

Student Shorts: Checkmate by Alexie Nicole Pardo

 

Pinakapanalong Promosyon ng Pelikula

Student Shorts:

Checkmate by Alexie Nicole Pardo

Taympers by Naiah Nicole Mendoza

 

Responsableng Paglikha

Full-Length: Journeyman by Christian Paolo Lat and Dominic Lat

Student Shorts:

1. Dan, En Pointe by Adelbert Abrigonda
2. Sine-Sine by Roniño Dolim
3. 1… 2… Strike!!! by Kenneth Flores

 

Mowelfund Special Citation

Full-Length: Olsen’s Day

Student Shorts: Champ Green

 

Panalo sa International Jury

Journeyman by Christian Paolo Lat and Dominic Lat

Pamungkas and Scrubb join forces to co-headline Philippine-only concert

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GNN marks its tenth-year anniversary of producing shows and concerts with a one-day music event top-billed by Pamungkas from Indonesia and Scrubb from Thailand.

#GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila will take place on April 26, 2025, at 123 Block in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City. The exclusive, co-headline show is a Philippine-only engagement and will form a key part of #GNN10, a year-long music campaign. This project kicked off with a string of sold-out shows earlier this year, including Regina Song: Live in Manila and Tanaw: The Repeat at Newport Performing Arts Theater.

Tickets are now available via Helixpay

The inaugural celebration not only commemorates the production company’s commitment to championing local and Asian artists but also reaffirms its mission of mounting concerts and events rooted in community building and inclusivity.

Having earned iconic status in their respective countries and throughout Southeast Asia, Pamungkas and Scrubb have cultivated a dedicated fanbase in the Philippines with their inescapable anthems. Indonesian singer-songwriter and producer Pamungkas became a regional sensation with his breakout hit, “To The Bone,” which topped streaming charts across Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, where it peaked at No. 5 on Spotify PH charts. Meanwhile, phenomenal Thai alt-pop duo Scrubb captivated global audiences with their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether The Series, the biggest Boy’s Love hit to ever come out of the region.

GNN brought both artists in 2022 and 2024, respectively, introducing them to the Philippine market through separate headline shows.

“We are incredibly excited to bring Pamungkas and Scrubb back to the Philippine stage,” shares GNN Creative Director Marie Lara Pauline Bobier in an official press statement. “This anniversary celebration marks an important milestone for me, Ian, and Milley, and reflects how far we’ve come from our humble beginnings. It is a testament to our younger selves that passion, dedication, and perseverance pay off. We started with nothing—personally cutting tickets, selling them through meet-ups with strangers, carrying our extension cords and electric kettles to gigs and concerts—all while holding onto our day jobs.”

Bobier continues, “GNN has never been just about numbers; it has grown through shared experiences and memories. Our artists, gig and concertgoers, and dedicated production team have created moments that will last a lifetime. GNN has always been, and will always be, for those who live and breathe entertainment. We are truly grateful that, through our company, we have the privilege of bringing together the artists we admire with the fans who love them just as much.”

Tickets to #GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila are available on March 14, 2025, 12 noon via https://scrubbpamungkas.helixpay.ph.

Calvin Harris returns as producer and lead vocalist for new single “Smoke The Pain Away”

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Today, Calvin Harris releases his new single “SMOKE THE PAIN AWAY,” marking a major return to his roots as a vocalist after several years.

This fresh release, written and produced solely by Calvin himself, showcases his evolution as an artist.

Listen HERE

“SMOKE THE PAIN AWAY” offers a glimpse into a more personal side of Calvin Harris, with the artist showcasing both his vocal abilities and exploring a fresh approach to songwriting. This track marks a step in his musical evolution, expanding beyond his DJ roots into a genre-bending space that reflects his desire to push creative boundaries.

“SMOKE THE PAIN AWAY” is a celebration of artistic freedom, weaving together influences from his past with exciting new sounds.

This release follows Calvin’s Platinum-selling, GRAMMY-nominated single “Miracle” with Ellie Goulding, which enjoyed eight weeks at #1 and over 2.91 million global single sales. With “Smoke the Pain Away,” Calvin is ready to reintroduce himself to the world in an entirely new light.

Follow Calvin Harris on socials:

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines opens its 2025 season with PAGDIRIWANG: Sayaw Alay sa Sining at the Globe Auditorium

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Alice Reyes Dance Philippines launches its 2025 season with PAGDIRIWANG: Sayaw Alay sa Sining, a mixed bill program that showcases the company's versatility. Set to take the stage on April 4 and 5, 2025, 2:00 and 7:30 PM at the Globe Auditorium, Maybank Performing Arts Theater, this landmark production promises an unforgettable evening of dance, featuring masterful works by renowned choreographers

Now on its 4th season, Alice Reyes Dance Philippines continues its commitment to elevating Philippine dance by presenting a repertoire that spans classical ballet, neoclassical, modern, and contemporary works.

The program includes a selection of works from some of the most celebrated names in dance, led by National Artists for Dance Alice Reyes, alongside internationally renowned choreographers:

●      AMADA (Filipino Modern Dance), choreography by National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, Music by National Artist for Music, Lucrecia Kasilag

●      SONGS OF A WAYFARER (Modern Dance), choreography by Norman Walker, music by Gustav Mahler

●      MUYBRIDGE/FRAMES (Contemporary), choreography by Denisa Reyes

●      The world premiere of C’EST LA CIE, a neo-classical choreography by Agustus ‘Bam’ Damian III

●      GLINKA’S VALSE (Classical Ballet), choreography by Adam Sage, music by Mikhail Glinka

●      NOCTURNE (Neo-Classical), choreography by Carlo AC Pacis and

●      MOON (Contemporary), choreographed by Kun-Yang Lin, music by Dead Can Dance

Candice Adea, multi-awarded Filipina ballerina who had been performing with the West Australian Ballet was a former Principal Dancer of Ballet Philippines. For this performance, Adea will take on the titular role in Alice Reyes’ AMADA, delivering a poignant farewell to the Philippine stage, as she commences her retirement from dance.

Don't miss this extraordinary season opener! Catch the performances on April 4 and 5 at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM. PAGDIRIWANG: Sayaw Alay sa Sining is made possible through a partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, CCP Professional Artists Support Program, BGC Arts Center, Century Tuna, Office of Senator Pia Cayetano, Steps Dance Studio, and the support of Blackbird at the Nielson Tower, and McDonalds Philippines.

Tickets will be available on www.ticketworld.com.ph.

PAGDIRIWANG: SAYAW ALAY SA SINING

📅 April 4 & 5 | 2:00 & 7:30 PM

📍 Globe Auditorium, Maybank Performing Arts Theater, BGC

🎟️ ardancephilippinesinc@ardp.ph | 09671536173

 

TICKET PRICES:

Level 1 - Php 3,000

Level 2: Center - Php 2,500

Level 2: Side - Php 2,000

Level 3: Center - Php 1,500

Level 3: Side - Php 1,000

Celebrate the best of Filipino artistry and talent! For more information, check @ARDancePh on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

 

Critically-acclaimed Tenor Arthur Espiritu All Set for One Night Only Concert at MiraNila Heritage House & Library on April 2

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A welcome-home concert for this “rare spinto-tenor in the tradition of a Pavarotti . . . a well-trained tenor (with) no fear of heights”

The MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with Leon Gallery and Gallery MiraNila of The Blue Leaf with support from the Bizu Groupe proudly presents “Tenor Arthur Espiritu Welcome-home Concert Amid Critical Acclaim in Europe” on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Main Hall of MiraNila.

Enter the thrilling world of Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu to witness his “magnificent vocal power” and “effortlessness and radiance.”

He returns from European cities after playing leading roles in opera houses and concert halls.

MiraNila promises a magical experience and an exploration of the power of love and the drama of opera with pieces by Gabriel Fauré, Franz Lehar, Giacomo Puccini, Charles Gounod, Richard Strauss, Andrew Lloyd Weber and Francesco Sartori.

Tenor Arthur Espiritu 

In an interview with Michael Ching, Mr. Espiritu recalls, “I started my career in Europe. . .

I had no trouble landing leading European-type roles." Still, he had to prove himself by working harder as he was not as tall as the locals. "In some ways,” he added, “it was easier for female performers."

His advice to younger talents? “Work really, really hard at your artistry, put yourself into that character . . . take that extra step with a chip on your shoulder (that is how I built my career) and leave the audience to see you as an Asian-American doing that role.”

Tenor Arthur Espiritu was born in Morong, Rizal, Philippines. He migrated to the United States with his parents in his teens and finished with an Artist Diploma in Music Performance at the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music. He won the La Scala award at the Belvedere Competition in 2007 and the distinguished George London Award in 2009.

Mr. Espiritu has portrayed numerous leading roles in North America, Europe, and Asia, with early career highlights that include his very first Ferrando in Michael Hampe’s staging of Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte in the Teatro alla Scala, the role of Tamino in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte with the Israeli Opera Tel-Aviv, and the role of Publio in Mozart’s early work, Il sogno di Scipione, with the former Gotham Chamber Opera, New York.

His recent roles include Roberto of Leicester in Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda in the Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz (the Munich opera house); Edgardo in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor in the Daegu International Opera Festival, South Korea; Gualtiero in Bellini’s Il Pirata; Alfredo in Verdi’s La Traviata; Cassio in Verdi’s Otello; Rodolfo in Puccini’s La Boheme; and Don Ramiro in Rossini’s La Cenerentola, in Munich’s Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz. His opera commitments continue unabated in 2025. Read more about him at: https://www.arthurespiritutenor.com/

Performing with Mr. Espiritu is the multi-awarded soprano Jade Riccio. Virtuoso pianist Mariel Ilusorio will accompany them on MiraNila’s newly restored 1904 Steinway, considered rare in the Steinway & Sons catalog.

Soprano Jade Riccio, an Italian-Filipina who hails from Palawan, earned a slot in the 2024 Person to Watch: Women Who Made It in Music. She was the sole recipient of the 37th Aliw Awards 2024 Hall of Fame from which she won five consecutive awards, including Best Classical Performer in 2018 and 2020 and Best Female Crossover Performer in 2019 and 2022. She earlier received highest recognitions during vocal competitions at the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 2014 and the Jovita Fuentes Vocal Competition in 2015. As one of the most sought-after celebrity vocal coaches to some of Asia’s most shining stars, Ms. Riccio is also the CEO, creative producer, and chairperson of a music company called Riccio Music and Artistry (RMA) Studio Academy, a creative hub she founded during the pandemic, which now nurtures nearly 400 students from around the world.

Pianist Mariel Ilusorio studied at the Juilliard School of Music in New York, Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio, and the State College of Music and Theater Hanover (now Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media) in Lower Saxony, Germany. Under the tutelage of Stella Brimo, she won top prizes in Philippine piano competitions before continuing her studies overseas. After performing in the U.S., Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Indonesia and having lived twenty-six years in the U.S., Germany, and South Africa, she has made the Philippines her home. She continues performing and now organizes concerts and recitals. She is also in the faculty of the UST Conservatory of Music, St. Scholastica's College of Music, the Philippine High School for the Arts, and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

This April, the public gets the chance to hear these three outstanding performers in an environment conducive to master-level performances. In the once bucolic environs of Cubao, this four-story 1929 heritage house boasts a living room and library with near perfect acoustics. With its charming gardens and chapel, the grounds are likewise not to be missed.

Book your tickets now and appreciate why critics continue to laud Mr. Espiritu’s performances. With this brief interlude to visit family in the Philippines, his opera engagements in Europe remain steady. Here are some reviews:

—Das Opernglas

Arthur Espiritu as Roméo . . . interpreted his leading role with a heroic tenor. Powerful and musically secure in all registers, he steered timelessly, singing his melodious tenor voice and making his role debut through the demanding role. The soft tones are touching.

—Angus McPherson of Limelight Magazine

Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu as the poet Rodolfo, whose sound is exquisitely polished and contained—almost delicate—with a fine, burnished sheen. Espiritu’s voice warms in Che Gelida Manina as he sensitively crafts the swells and diminuendos.

—Detlef Obens of Opernmagazin Das Opern & Kulturmagazin

As one of the rare Spinto-tenors in the tradition of a Pavarotti, which combine safe heights with lyrical melt and great virtuosity, he travels at large houses worldwide. Sparks spark in the duets of the two.

—Peter Skorepa of OnlineMERKER

Arthur Espiritu achieved great success with his Duke, who also had an impeccable voice. With his well-trained tenor and no fear of heights, he showed how to musically implement the specifications of Leggerezza.

—Florian Krenstetter of The Kronen Zeitung

Photo Credit: Mark Glassner

Arthur Espiritu convinces with a powerful sensitive implementation in the title role. His Don Carlo is characterized by emotions, suffering and hopelessness, to which he submits little rebelliously. His tenor follows effortlessly in all layers and warms with full bright timbre.

—Dr. Andreas Ströbl of Klassik begeistert - Der Opernfreund

The Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu makes this feeling at the mercy of his own doubts and desires come alive with his magnificent vocal power and fantastic height confidence. He crowns this production with top performances in singing and acting, for which he repeatedly receives applause from the audience.

—Alan Neilson of @operawire.com

The tenor Arthur Espiritu . . . has a sweet timbre and he sings with a lilting Italianate intonation, ideal for the bel canto repertoire, which his aria “Ah! Rimiro il bel sembiante” beautifully confirmed, by highlighting his natural lyricism. He performed exceptionally well in the numerous interactive recitative passages and ensembles.

—Norbert Pabelick of Der Opernfreund

Filipino-American opera singer Arthur Espiritu, who embodied the title part with wonderful Italianita. He is an extremely beautiful, sympathetic and high-altitude Rudolfo, who does not need to fear the comparison with stars . . . His high C in the aria hit “Che gelida manina” is of an effortlessness and radiance that require admiration. (December 24, 2024)

• Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the program promptly starts at 6:30 p.m.

• Tickets @ P1,500 (Library) and P2,500 (Main Hall) are limited, so order now. 
• Text Robeen @ 0927 277 6335.

• Guests are requested to wear soft-soled shoes as these are kinder to old floors.

• Pre-concert and intermission snacks and bottled water are available for sale in the East Patio

• The Gift Shop will also be open.

MiraNila Heritage House & Library is located at 26 Mariposa Street, Brgy Bagong Lipunan Crame, Q.C. (Find us on Facebook: MiraNila Heritage House and Library & MiraNila Heritage House Events)

“Critically-acclaimed Tenor Arthur Espiritu All Set for One Night Only Concert at MiraNila on April 2” is presented by the MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with Leon Gallery and Gallery MiraNila of The Blue Leaf with support from the Bizu Groupe.

Malasimbo Music, Arts, and Kids Festival 2025 heads to historic Intramuros, March 8!

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Malasimbo festival returns this March 8 taking place in the walled city of Intramuros’ Puerta Real Gardens. The Malasimbo festival weaves music, arts, dance, environment, and culture into one historical adventure.

The Malasimbo Music, Arts, and Kids Festival, one of the Philippines' most celebrated cultural events, is set to return on March 8, 2025, with a new twist—this year, the festival moves to the historic Puerta Real Gardens in Intramuros, Manila. This exciting change of venue comes with a new partnership with Intramuros, a renowned cultural heritage site, promising an unforgettable experience that blends rich history with vibrant art and music.

A Historic Setting

Intramuros, known for its well-preserved Spanish-era architecture and cultural significance, provides a stunning backdrop for this year’s festival. The partnership with the Intramuros Administration underscores Malasimbo’s commitment to celebrating Filipino heritage and promoting cultural tourism. Festival-goers can look forward to an immersive experience that harmoniously integrates the historic charm of Intramuros with the festival’s modern artistic flair.

Exciting Line-Up

Main stage line up:

François K; Mike Love; DJ Shortkut; Selah Dub Warriors; La Crema; Brigada; Morobeats; Gundamfunk; Laneous; Tommy Sexton & the Suggestions; Orange Juice Asia

Mike Love

François K

DJ Shortkut

Silent Disco DJs:

Sky Dominique ; Flava Matikz ; John Type; Ezzrei ; J-Nice ; Antonne ; Polo Dino; Peebs ; 

Salamangka ; JP Sacaben ; Marga Chi

In addition to the electrifying performances, the festival will feature a Kids' Village, Silent Disco, and mesmerizing art installations by renowned visual artists such as: Agnes Arellano, Billy Bonnevie, Levi Cruz, Olivia d’Aboville, Cherry Fulo, Hohana, Veronica Iberreta, Indie Green Culture, King, Agus Loedin, Bianca Natola, Marco Santos, Troy Silvestre.

Discover the Magic of Malasimbo: A Creative Haven for Kids

As the Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival returns, families have more reasons than ever to join in the celebration. This year, the festival introduces a delightful Kids' Village—a dedicated space where children can immerse themselves in a variety of creative and outdoor activities.

Parents, imagine a place where your little ones can explore their artistic talents, connect with nature, and experience the joy of music and movement. The Kids' Village at Malasimbo offers a treasure trove of workshops and activities designed to spark creativity and foster a love for the outdoors.

A Creative Wonderland

From crochet and painting to drumming and yoga, the Kids' Village has something for every young artist and explorer. Camille Salazar will lead a colorful Sticker Workshop, where children can let their imaginations run wild and create personalized stickers. Arts and crafts lovers will enjoy the Nature Weaving Workshops by Cherry Fulo, where they can use natural materials and colorful yarns to craft unique and beautiful pieces. Hohana, a Malasimbo Visual Artist regular, will teach the art of crochet, allowing kids to bring home their mandala or dream catcher creations. International artist Jeona Zoleta will hold a painting workshop where kids can express themselves freely on a giant canvas.

For those with a flair for rhythm, the Drum Workshop by Billy Bonnevie and Jose Dufourt offers an exciting opportunity to learn basic drumming techniques and explore the world of percussion. Little cyclists can ride their way through the balance bike tracks with Bambike, designed to provide a fun and safe environment for toddlers and young kids to practice their biking skills.

Mindful and Playful Activities

The festival also features Poi & Hoop Workshops by Luisa Jimenez, where children can discover the art of rhythmic movement and express themselves through playful practice. The Yoga Workshops by Steve Manzano encourage mindfulness and relaxation, allowing kids to find their inner calm amidst the festival's vibrant atmosphere. Science enthusiasts can join the Liter of Light workshop with Illac Diaz, learning how to assemble lights and solar panels using sustainable materials. Gardening enthusiasts can participate in workshops led by Bea Macalino, while the Creative Healing sessions with Indie Green Culture Family will offer a holistic approach to well-being.

And for a unique musical experience, kids can head to the silent disco area, where they can wear headphones and choose which DJ to listen to. It's a fun way to enjoy music in a personalized and interactive manner!

A Family Affair

Malasimbo is not just about the kids—it's an experience for the whole family. While the children are engaged in creative activities, parents can enjoy the live music, explore art installations, and soak in the festival's unique ambiance. It's a chance for families to come together, celebrate the arts, and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.

A Historic and Beautiful Venue

For the first time, the Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival will be held at the stunning Puerta Real Gardens in Intramuros, Manila. This lush garden within a cultural and historic site offers the perfect backdrop for a festival that celebrates art and nature.

Join Us at Malasimbo

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to introduce your children to the joys of creativity, nature, and music. The Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival is a celebration of art and culture that promises to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.

📅 When: 2pm onwards March 8, 2025 📍 Where: Puerta Real Gardens, Intramuros, Manila

Entrance ticket for kids below 10 years old: PhP1,000 General Admission: PhP3,450 for a whole day of music performances, DJs, art installations, and kids activities

Buy tickets at www.malasimbo.com

We look forward to welcoming you and your family to the Malasimbo Festival. Let's make magic together!

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