The Phantom of the Opera wows Manila
Lovers of music and theater enjoyed the gala night of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera recently at the Main Theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
The musical, co-presented by Citibank, attracted local celebrities, business leaders and even officials from both the government and private sectors who were all enthralled by Andrew Lloyd Webber’s timeless music during the gala night.
Guests witnessed the love story between the disfigured musical genius known only as “The Phantom” and his obsession with the young and talented soprano named Christine. Seen by over 130 million people in more than 27 countries around the world, the musical has grossed more than $5.6 billion and celebrated its 25th anniversary at London’s West End stage last year.
A long standing ovation greeted the cast during the curtain call as confetti showered the guests.
Citibank gave exclusive offers such as 10 percent discount on ticket prices, and access to the preview sale where cardholders were able to choose the best seats on their preferred play dates before the public sale.
For years, Citi has been supporting the music and the arts, bringing award-winning musicals to Manila with each one a phenomenal success. It presented the smash hit Mamma Mia!, based on the song by Swedish pop group ABBA, early this year and the critically-acclaimed Cats in 2010.
There was an after-gala party held for the cast and a select number of guests at The Manila Diamond Hotel. The party lasted until 2 a.m.
The Phantom of the Opera is presented in Manila by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, Hi-Definition Radio Inc., Concertus Manila, Smart Infinity and Citi. The show will run until Oct. 14 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Main Theater. 
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A celebration of beauty
The coronation night of Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2012 held at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila saw 28-year-old hotelier Joycelyn Agsaway named as the country’s most beautiful married woman. Agsaway is also a mother of one and a volunteer teacher at the University of the Philippines’ Ugnayan ng Pahinungod.
National pageant director Morena Carla Cabrera-Quimpo said, “I’m really very happy and overwhelmed with the outcome of this pageant. I would like to congratulate all of the candidates and it is truly an honor to have known each of them. I’m proud of them for embracing the whole experience. I also hope that even after this pageant, they will all continue to achieve their goals, inspire and help others, and more importantly, be true women of substance.”
The finalists were dressed in swimsuits designed by Ricky Abad and in evening gowns created by designers Ronald Enrico, Pablo Cabahug, Jonti Martinez, Barge Ramos and Edwin Uy, who also crafted the crowns for the winners.
Judges included Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Patty Betita, Mrs. Malaysia-Globe 2011 Melinda Yap, Mrs. Singapore-Globe 2011 Melinda Chong, Olen Lim and Mrs. Philippines-World 2008 Eimee Cragun.
First runner-up was Ma. Micaela Isabel Malupa, second runner-up was Patricia Cardel and Woman of Substance was Pinky Siva. Lailani Llanto was chosen as Mrs. Friendship, Angel Co won Mrs. Body Beautiful and Pinky Siva was hailed as the Most Elegant Woman. Margie Atienza won the People’s Choice award while Stephanie Malibiran was voted as the Most Beautiful Face.
Other candidates who vied for the crown were Rochelle Angeles, Beth Cruz, Jinky Baldoza, Ruby Liboon, Ma. Olivia David, Ma. Fe Garchitorena and Kimberly de la Cruz.
Mrs. Globe aims to empower married women and make them realize their importance as molders of their families and movers of the society. Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2012 was presented by Event Visions Inc., with the support of Make Up For Ever, Tony & Jackey, Pru Life U.K. and Mad Banana. Other sponsors included 96.3 Easy Rock, Lafinamoda, Janylin Shoes, New World Hotel, Solane, Athena, Myra-E, STI and Mary Kay.
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