ELA LISONDRA

"My driving force in my life is my family. I do everything for them.

My achievements are for my dad, the pride is for my mom,

the rewards are for my siblings; their HAPPINESS is mine 

and that's what keeps me going."

- ELA LISONDRA

Who would have known that her debut as a triple threat performer would begin as one of the cast of Cameron Mackintosh's Miss Saigon to be unleashed May of this year? Live performances, high expectations and a new journey...let's get the inside story of how Ela had reached her dream.

Like any other person walking on this planet, Ela dreams a lot of dreams. As a self-proclaimed fan of the Queen B and Bruno mars, this passionate young woman is driven 150% in attaining her goals. She finds no excuses in achieving them that she actually went to a lot of auditions and got rejected so many times as well. But she would always find a way to get up from a downfall. Just like us, Ela strives to find herself along the way and she stands up to be a better person each time.

A PROMISING BEGINNING

Elaine Margaret Reyes Lisondra, most commonly known as Ela to family, friends and colleagues, was born on April 10 in the Philippines and were raised in a family of six. She is the eldest but confidently claims being young at heart. She got two brothers and a sister. Ela loves her family above all else and they are her life. She considers her dad as the greatest influence and greatest motivator because he nurtured Ela's hunger for excellence. He discouraged Ela into pursuing a career from performing but that didn't stop her spontaneous spirit. She considered that as her fuel and treated it as a loving reminder. He just doesn't want him to put Ela's efforts from her academics to become stagnant in the whole process. At least that was just in the beginning.

What you guys have to know is that Ela was a valedictorian when she graduated from her primary years. But as early as that, she showed a promising inclination to dance being the Dance Club President. She continued to feed her creativity all the way when she reached High School that she graduated with a Terpsichorean Award and probably ending as the most aesthetic of all in her batch. In college, she got admitted to Philippine's most prestigious and known university, the University of the Philippines. Its dance program take only dancers with strong classical and contemporary background. She never had a hardcore training in ballet but the artistic director, Sir Steve Villaruz saw Ela's potential. She got through even though her first ballet class was the audition itself.

HER CALLING

Ela interacting with Timon
Lion King Show,
Hong Kong Disneyland

"When i got the call from Disney, it was surreal. I was just a college student who got pulled by friends to audition for it, not really expecting anything. I was very happy but torn at the same time between my studies and an awesome job opportunity.", as remembered by Ela when the big break is about to come.

Of all the jobs anybody could ever have in the Philippines, it was catchy for most if you say that you will be working abroad as a "dancer". It denotes something else. But when Hong Kong Disneyland had a number of young artists, talents and musicians employed, it had impressed a lot of people that being a performer had instantly gained respect as something stable and favorable enough to put food on the table. Usually, if it's not as grand as going for any of the foreign musicals or if you're not a celebrity, you're NOT it!

But Ela didn't have it in a silver platter right away upon reaching Hong Kong. She started as a parade dancer having to perform under any weather condition. She didn't mind that. From the beginning, she had been real and honest with what she does. She enjoys every bit of it, from the rehearsals down to opening the shows, she was on every time. She gives off a genuine smile and an extra "umph" while at it!

After several auditions, she was able to move to shows where she had never wasted a moment to learn and to expand as a performer. She got to be trained on how to become a character and also an aerialist, hence getting the contract of a principal dancer in Lion King. In the middle of her contract, she auditioned to be a friend of Mulan and was sent for a contract to Disney Paris in an instant. She remained the kind of person she is as far as being driven is concerned that she learned how to speak French fluently for just less than 3 years of staying there. She came back in 2012 possessing a different approach with her passion because of that much exposure to the French culture. She engaged to competitions seizing every moment and she had opened herself into doing what needs to be done. She started living her life to the fullest by being confident and fearless.

The release of the Spirit Bird is one of the highlights
in Hong Kong Disneyland's Lion King show.

ELA AND DIVERSITY

Fuscion Loca - Champions of the World Salsa Festival 2013

Ela made herself a versatile artist by attending more dance classes outside work and collaborated with a lot of voice coaches which helped her get the role of a lead singer for High School Musical. She would be active in all presentations sharing an intermission number or two with her colleagues on Christmas parties, get togethers and gatherings. Her talents and skills were subconsciously getting sharpened more and more while plainly just having fun and being herself. My husband and I were blessed to have her sing on our wedding reception. I requested her to sing, "Sing Me Your Song Again Daddy" for my surprise dance number with my father after his speech to dedicate to him the most memorable gift he imparted to me and that was love for music which the wonderful Ela made even more special.

In 2012, right when she came back from Paris, she formed a group along with fellow Filipinos called "The Movement" and won as Champions that year as Hong Kong's Best Dance Crew. It was a strong contemporary piece and was their first time to win. Then a complete turnover to ballroom dancing the year after that, when she got invited to compete in the World Salsa Festival which was held, then, here in Hong Kong. The group was called Fusion Loca and the team was composed of 6 pairs, all Filipino representatives. Every year, since she got the call from Disney, offered Ela a renewal of herself and slowly, she had grown into becoming ready for 2014.

Ela together with her team enjoying their piece during the World Salsa Festival Competition 2013

THE REAL DEAL

Ela did not stop at winning with Fusion Loca in 2013. When she got hold of the information regarding Miss Saigon Auditions that was about to commence before the year ends, she was ready, up and about going home to Manila for it. That was November of 2013. Over thousands of applicants, Ela was chosen to stay until the remaining top 7 to be heard of the highest note their voices could reach. Not to mention, this was asked after the dance auditions of the very same day. So, literally, the production team wanted to know who's going to crack under pressure. I remember her sharing to me how tough it was and how frustrating that nobody is assured of the result with less than a year of the broadway show's opening gala. By December of that very same year, the Miss Saigon production confirmed that the revival will be launched May of next year (2014) and that they had people in mind to consider for final casting. Ela began the 2014 with high hopes as she was asked to record and pass a couple of songs sung by herself from the show since they are strongly and highly considering her to be a part of it.

Ela couldn't sleep for weeks waiting for the final decision over email that she had gone anxious and nervous the whole waiting time. She had to go to work, put up what is expected of her in the show and perform like nothing was actually bothering her from the inside but she was considering a lot of Plans B, C, and D already just in case Plan A doesn't happen for her. When she had received it finally, she couldn't help but ask her coach and boyfriend, Elias, to read the email for her. Trembling while waiting, curled up on the bed with the pillow on her face, she peeked on him and he looked despondent upon reading the message so she couldn't help but cry asking, "I didn't get it?" But then he said, "Yes babe, you got it!!!!" It made her jump up and down and it made her scream with her whole body shaking with joy and excitement when it sank in her that she got the part. For her, the moment was PRICELESS.

HOW SHE SEES LIMITS

From having no background in ballet, to slowly taking steps in making it to becoming a principal dancer, to expanding beyond expectations, to getting casted as a broadway swing for Miss Saigon, allow your jaws to drop as this girl gives justice to that statement, "I've worked my way to the top."

the graceful Ela as the Spirit Bird

Ela admits honestly that she is not familiar with what to expect with theatre and broadway and that she needs further knowledge about it. Though when I asked her about who she looks up to now that she is about to take a new journey, she acknowledges the people who are very close to her and whom she had worked with. She knows who are the hardworking ones waiting for their big breaks to come and she also is thankful for the ones who already have. She has a strong admiration for her colleagues who never stop pursuing their passion; those people who keep striving to becoming better in their field. She bows down to them and sees them as her inspiration.

Like how she considers every experience as a learning ground, she was willing to share 2 things that she learned from the Miss Saigon audition:

"First, it doesn't end in the actual audition, so keep on improving yourself."

Ela wrote about her whole experience on her journal from bringing it on the moment her name was called to sing her piece. She didn't doubt herself during the dance part but undeniably feeling a bit frustrated on the plane on her way home, thinking about how close she was to the final round. She had thought of herself as a failure on the singing part that time. But she had kept a record of it alongside the additional resolutions to her game plan. Not a year after, she got an email from the Miss Saigon team and because of her focus, she was prepared in delivering to those songs they needed for her to sing for reconsideration. With her free time, she had strengthened her voice that after the final submission, she made it. "It goes to show, that the audition process ends when the casting is finished. So always be prepared!", she advices.

"Second, no matter how talented you are, if it's not for you, you won't get it, but if it is for you, it's for you."

She had a callback with other 50 other girls and most of them according to her were experienced in theater. She was waiting side by side with some famous showbiz personalities as well that she got intimidated at some point. For her, the thought of waiting with these talented women is beyond her imagination. In the end, she got the part and she was very grateful to having been chosen. She regards this opportunity as her chance. She says, "My time had come!"

Ela dancing a piece during the Christmas Cabaret 2013

ELA LOVES LIVING ON THE EDGE!

That being said, she remains to be spontaneous but chooses not to be reckless. She got plans but that doesn't mean she lives her life in a box. In fact, it's the total opposite of how she sees her life. "Get crazy! Don't be afraid to be a geek and be happy!! A lot of good and/or even bad things happen when you get crazy. It puts you out of your comfort zone and that's when you really live and learn. Do not be afraid to be totally immersed and to fall in love into something that yeah, won't seem too cool but who cares? And being happy is being grateful and generous itself.", shares Ela. Furthermore, she thinks that she was led to 3 huge opportunities (Hong Kong Disneyland, Disney Paris and now Miss Saigon) because she never wanted to stop learning and exploring what she can do and actualising her maximum potential. But with a golden coating of being a dreamer, she moulds an armour of making IT happen!

BESIDES BEING A TRIPLE THREAT, WHAT IS STILL THERE IN ELA THAT AWAITS

Like all of us, Ela aspires to be successful, to become a financially independent woman. Her focus stays on her career yet there's a side of her that most of the people don't know about. During her younger years, she had trained herself in knowing the importance of saving and investing with the influence of her dad; so much so, that she would love to have her Real Estate properties and businesses lined up in the future. She is well, in fact, targeting to build her own hotel in Boracay this 2014. When asked whether which to choose between TIME and MONEY, she undoubtedly chose TIME without thinking twice. "Although I realize the importance of having money in my life, I will, without no doubt, choose time. Without it, what's all the money for??? You can have your money back but NEVER time."

When I asked her where she sees herself 5 years from now, she said, "The Stage." She is aware that by that time, she will come of mature age but right now, she can't see herself going anywhere else except on stage. That response kind of sounded familiar when I researched on Lea Salonga being asked about her other plans after achieving the label, "broadway diva". Needless to say, successful people think alike. The young Ela is still making the thought of how big Miss Saigon is for her to register, so she keeps her focus and efforts on this. Until this opportunity gets established, it would be the only time then that she would pursue being the female Bruno Mars,if given the chance. (She looks up on him since Bruno Mars is one of the coolest Filipino talents that had made his songs as vibrant as his personality is.) She would push on the idea during the entire interview and would just laugh about it but who knows, she might be just it!

ON A PERSONAL NOTE

We have asked Ela the following and check out how indifferent she is with the rest of us.

B.        1. If you'd be in a musical movie and will have a leading man, who would you like to be partnered with?

A. Hugh Jackman (Les Mis)
B. Antonio Banderas (EVITA)
C. Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera)
D. Other: Please specify ____

           2. Which Disney princess best describes your own fairy tale?

A. Cinderella
B. Princess Tiana
C. Belle
D. Other: Please specify - MULAN

           3. What do you do in your free time?

A. Facebook
B. Listen to music
C. Watch movies
D. Other: Please specify - A. Facebook while B. Listening to music

A        4. In which would you rather spend money on?

A. Food
B. Travel
C. New gadget
D. Other: Please specify ____

          5. Who for you is an epitome of confidence?

A. Miley Cyrus
B. Angelina Jolie
C. Anne Curtis
D. Other: Please specify - IRENE SENDLER, woman who saved thousand of kids during the
                                          holocaust;
                                         VICTORIA SOTO, who hid the kids and sacrificed herself instead during
                                          the latest school bombing;
                                         MALLIKA SHERAWAT, and Indian female celeb to whom I see myself
                                         in - very OUTSPOKEN

          6. For fun time, you prefer doing:

A. KTV
B. Beer pong
C. Dance Battle
D. Other: Please specify - "FUN" for me is BEACH and everything about it.

          7. Best asset:

A. Lips
B. Waistline
C. Legs
D. Other: Please specify - Hair

Related posts you might be interested in:

1. THE HEAT IS ON! - Check out Ms. Lea Salonga who had won a Tony award from being one of Ms. Saigon's prodigy.

2. SPEAKING OF WHO? - How inspiring are these fellows? Have a read.

3.  2009 Moments - Mentioning Ela achieving Euro-Disney

4. ARIEL REONAL - another colleague joining Ela in a wonderful journey to the West End.

5. HOGAN AND KYTE, AUGUST 26, 2013 - our union that Ela graced with a song.

THE HEAT IS ON!

ALAS!!! After 25 years, Miss Saigon is yet to be reborn this May, 2014. The much awaited debut will set the crowd in awe with its new cast and new additions (a different song that will be seen and heard in Act 2 that is oh so familiar from before) mixed with the classic theatrical experience telling a love story of an American GI and a young Vietnamese woman that happened in 1975 during the final days of the American occupation of Saigon.

Hungry for the history it had made, I was drawn to watching parts of it via youtube. I got familiar with the songs only by acts and it made me do nothing but dream of how the orchestra would feel like in conduction if I were to experience it live due to certain limits that I am more than ready to overcome (now that two of the cast who had become workmates, turned colleagues, turned inspiration, are currently "in" the cast and had blessed me with their time to hold an interview). My parents were never fans of broadway until they have heard me getting interested with it. The first theatre show I was able to experience was "Lido" when my family went to Paris but I swear, I wished we watched, "Les Miserables" instead.

But "Yes!" people! Two of the new cast of Miss Saigon gave me the privilege to conduct their first personal interview which will be read in the coming posts that will surely inspire you in attaining your dreams. In getting what's for you and what you are here for. Upon deciding to do such, we all agreed that the intention of writing it would be something that would remind them of how good the feeling is, of "ACHIEVEING A DREAM". To let the people know that it happens to those who persevere.

But before I lead you to those posts, please allow me to pay tribute to Philippines' very own, Ms. Lea Salonga who had opened the eyes of the Filipinos to a world where the impossible can be possible.

When I was young, I have been amazed with Lea Salonga's achievements since she began gracing us all with the talents that had formed the pedestal where she is currently standing on right now.

From being one of German Moreno's talents, to making it in her audition to Miss Saigon, to doing movies like, "Sana'y Maulit Muli" (my younger sister and I just love the idea of just bawling our eyes to this - no JOKE!), to getting awarded as a "Disney Legend" because of doing Jasmine's singing voice and Mulan's voices for the movies, Aladdin, Mulan 1 & 2 respectively, ... whew! I am continuously  mesmerised. I can just go on and on with what I have researched that literally, reading about her got me nauseated for that much awards she had. Tony Awards, Olivier, FAMAS, and many more. Let's take a look back at when she was just 18 years old, and was already starting to make a name.

At a very tender age, Lea had been exposed to a lot of pressure but her supportive parents had surely done a great job in establishing her roots. Her attitude to it all is what made me admire her the most. The way she balances her personal life with the ones that she makes so alive on stage, the way she carries herself in front of people, the way how outspoken she is with her opinion and well spoken with what she agrees and disagrees with. Most importantly, the way she sees art regards the utmost respect she has for it. She says being lost to what a character is portraying is the most important substance to consider in order to say he/she did good in playing the role. The story of a movie, the fluid movements of a dancer, the fineness of a sculpture and the words of a poet... these are the details that I look into now after learning how Lea sees any form of creation. She could be a critic and she could have a sharp tongue in doing so but being an award winner with her field, she has the right to declare war against lip syncing. This video clip says it all about how outgoing, real and "straightforward-no-taking-bull-shit" kind of gal she is.

Lea Salonga had always been pursued by a lot of producers and still is on the verge of looking for new projects (broadway productions) alongside world renowned composers. Recently, "Wicked" composer, Stephen Schwartz just had a talk with her over dinner of what else they would want to do together just because he feels delighted working with the broadway diva. Lea had just left a mark to New Yorkers when she had a concert at the Allen Room Jazz, Lincoln Center and is collaborating with the band "Il Divo" for 3 legs of the tour to Korea, Japan and North America (going on this March). Lea also had just finished coaching in the "The Voice: Philippines" and knowing all these, and holding a Tony and Olivier award at hand, or on 2 hands for that matter, who wouldn't want to have a project with her?

But despite that, the talented Lea Salonga, being all this, plus an actress, endorser, a wife and a mom, she finds a way to congratulate and support the uprising stars of the Miss Saigon 2014 cast, most especially, Rachelle Ann Go who after letting Lea know of her successful auditions and call backs had been chosen to portray the role of Gigi in the replay of Miss Saigon, she felt nothing but pure excitement for her. She described her own experience then, upon landing "Kim" during her time as something that she was sure would change her life the moment she got introduced during the press conference for the paparazzis/press to prey on. And now, it's an "adventure of a lifetime" for the young and mesmerizing, Go.

And that leads me to being equally proud of Ms. Ela Lisondra (whom I have featured a number of times) for having the "Swing" part and Ariel Reonal (whom I've looked up to since I met him) for one of the group as an "Ensemble". You could check out the rest of the cast list by clicking here. And yet, a more intimate and personal interview about these two is yet to be released.

WHO'S GOT THE SWAG?

 

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul."

There's nothing greater than being able to express yourself thru your gift and being considered one of the bests in doing so. There are just world renowned talents that are worth acknowledging and so I dedicate this post to all of those who don't stop in showing what they are made of and at the same time, teaching others to do the same humbly. I find this a form of encouragement for the kids of today to be out of drugs, being yourself without fear and getting creative, therefore contributing to the empowerment of human existence.

Please enjoy all of these intros and videos as I present for my #swagginsaturday some of what (in my opinion) are aspiring performers who could get it served for you. They're simple yet powerful with their moves. Some may be too much for your taste but they have one thing in common...

THEY DON'T HESITATE! THEY JUST DO IT!

CHACHI GONZALES 

Olivia Irene Gonzales or "Chachi Gonzales", as she is more popularly known is one of the most in demand hiphop/freestyle instructors nowadays. You would think that this young lady is all candy and sweetness with her looks but she can rip that stage with her ability to do lyrical hiphop and freestyle moves. Hailed by many, Chachi is the youngest (18 years old) member of IamMe dance crew. She started getting trained as a ballet dancer but after witnessing a dance crew perform at a dance event she attended, hiphop whispered to her soul and switched to learning this style instead since then. Chachi had a lot of critics saying she won't make it as a hip hop dancer but she proved them wrong as she worked her way up almost working on her skills everyday. Middle school opened her into honing her skills as it was offered as one of the styles taught. Her instructor was the first ever to believe in her and asked her to lead a group and that paved the way for her to becoming who she is now. Dancer/Performer, Choreographer, Businesswoman and a part time actress, Chachi had gone to a lot of places like the Philippines, Russia, UK and India (to name a few) to offer dance classes. She is now holding a clothing line called DotheadsbyChachi so being an entrepreneur is also one of the things she can do. This one is the best performance for me above all that she did though personal favourites like her own dance of "Like A Boy" and "Say My Name" will not be forgotten.

IamMe Dance Crew

YANIS MARSHALL

Talking about the magical word, "INNOVATION", Yanis Marshall fears not to indulge on its power as his art includes not just dancing to the newest, most popular "heels" but, being able to teach this to both women and men alike. He puts no limits to what a human being can do as far as "wearing high heels" is concerned. 

Yanis Marshall was born in Vallauris near Cannes whose mom was not just a dancer but was a director of a dance association. Like any other mom, Nadia had exposed Yanis into a lot of physical activities including sports but at an early age, he showed a promising inclination to dance in particular. This can be proven by Yanis at age 11 when he passed the auditions for Rosella Hightower in Cannes. This had moulded him, as a young talent into acquiring the necessary skills in becoming one of those on top. Now, as Yanis shares his passion as a choreographer, teacher and performer in France, he continually encourages many more youngsters to embrace their uniqueness. 

This latest video of Yanis performing into Beyonce's hit, "Grown Woman"
was in Ukraine's "So You Think You Can Dance".
The stage was shared with Arnaud Boursain and Nordine Nouri with whom
he had worked with in several of his music videos and dance classes.
He extends gratefulness to them because in this particular number,
it just took them 3 hours to make since the production staff
of the Ukraine's "So You Think You Can Dance"
took time in finding them and sending them the invite,
turned out, it was a last minute thing.

Yanis Marshall Delivers Fierce High Heel Dance For Lady Gaga's “Sexxx Dreams” 

Most comments about Yanis Marshall target the issue: "If you want to dance like a drag, loose the beard and dress up like a drag all the way." But that didn't stop the 24 year old extraordinaire to flaunt his style. In fact, he embraces the knowledge he gained from performing along side Kamel Ouali which had led him to doing a world tour making it possible for him to reach Korea.

After living in New York for a year when he was 20 years old, he decided to take with him to France what he had been exposed to after meeting Beyonce's choreographer and Lady Gaga, Sheryl Murakami. Both falling instantly in love with her and her craft, Yanis took StreetJazz to the next level by introducing it to his classes with his favourite accessory to wear above all, HIGH HEELS. He now teaches in Studio Harmonic in Paris. To those who'd be willing to take up a class alongside 30 people, look it up. And if you are interested to watch more of his works, click here.

QUICK CREW

As their name suggests, quick isolations, movements, poppin' and lockin' are just but few of this dance crew's abilities. This Norweigan crew is based in Oslo. They are one of the few non-singing groups who were signed up by Sony Entertainment.

• Suleman & Bilal wins the 2007 National Championship in HipHop as Duo

• Suleman Malik takes 1st position in National Championship in HipHop Solo

• Bilal Malik takes 2nd position in 2007 National Championship in HipHop Solo

• Quick wins in the dance category of UKM (Ungdoms Kulturmønstring)in 2008

• Suleman & Bilal wins the title "World best HipHop Duo" at the 2008 World Championship in Streetdance

• Quick wins the title "Norway's best dance crew" at the 2008 National Streetdance Championship

• May 2009 Quick wins the popular Norway's Got Talent TV Show with 22% of the public votes in the final

• Suleman & Bilal takes 3rd position (bronze medal) in the 2009 European Streetdance Championship

• Bilal Malik takes 4th position as solo dancer in the 2009 European Streetdance Championship

• Suleman & Bilal takes 5th position in the finals of the 2009 World Championship

• Suleman Malik takes 2nd position (silver medal) as solo dancer at the 2009 World Championship

• Quick wins the title "Norways best dance crew 2009" at the national dance championship

• Suleman & Bilal wins the 2009 National Championship in HipHop as Duo

• Suleman Malik takes 1st position in National Championship in HipHop Solo

• Bilal Malik takes 2nd position in 2009 National Championship in HipHop Solo
• Nasir Sirikhan takes 3rd position in 2009 National Championship in HipHop Solo

This video is one of the fans' favourites including me.

LES TWINS

The naturally born dancers, Larry and Laurent Bourgeois were born on Dec. 6, 1988 (now 25) in Sarcelles, France where they had been raised to start being known right then and there.

According to WAD Magazine, "They were born dancers. They walked at 5 months, seriously moved their bodies at 18 months old, and at 9 they showed off steps they had invented to youngsters twice their age in their neighbourhood."

- WIKIPEDIA

They never had formal background though were loyal to their craft so when getting tired of observing breakers, lockers and poppers in their neighbourhood, they teach themselves classical ballet techniques that led them to coming up with their new style. The so called "hip hop new style" that the twins demonstrate when they perform is so special that you won't be able to figure out where their center of gravity comes from followed by the impossible stunts, twists and undulation of their bodies that they believe they should call it the "Twins Style". If you would watch their dance numbers, you would find it remarkable that they finish each others dances which is very distinctly owned by them. In So You Think You Can Dance Season 8, Damon Bellmon and Deon Lewis (a.k.a. D*Day) copied a portion of the Les Twins choreography  performed in the World of Dance held in San Diego and had to accredit them in Season 9 upon coming back to try once again because they were only allowed to continue just one step further beyond that point. Naturally, as an aspiring Hip Hop Dancer, you would as much as possible pattern your moves from the best ones but you always have to respect somebody else's choreography by not owning it just like with the principle of PLAGIARISM (only with dance).

Because of their unique expression of the "Hip Hop New Style", they went competing in 2008 and got featured in the Ellen Degeneres' Show and ABC News in 2010 and this had let the world see what they can do. Such exposure attracted Beyonce to feature them in her music videos and world tours and Cirque de Solei's Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour had featured them as its star dancers. This plus a number of workshops all over the world, TV guestings, feature presentations in the Urban Dance Camp, World Dance and choreographing dances in WII's popular video game, Just Dance 2 is just but a one type of entertainment they do. The other is modelling under NEXT Model Management in Paris, France where deals with H&M, Givenchy, Adidas and BEATS by Dre (to name a few) had featured their afro hairstyle and height (standing 6'4") had been done. In terms of fashion, they exude their own by wearing their usual trademark of pants with the original front side at the back, neck warmers, knee pads on the ankles and scarves, chains and unique accessories (which sometimes include, women's clothing) to zest up the usual comfortable hip hop get up. They believe they have raised a different kind of consciousness with fashion and that makes them stand out.

Here is just one of their superb performances. If you can't view it from my blog site, just follow the link and watch it from youtube directly. (That goes the same with Chachi's dance number.)

Related posts:

1. WORKING ABROAD - 3 things that feed my career.

2. NATIONAL DANCE DAY - how I started making a career out of dance.

3. HIP HOP OR HIP POP - What is the proper way of calling this popular dance?

100 YEAR OLD BFF'S

"The most beautiful discovery true friends make

is that they can grow separately without growing apart."

- Elizabeth Foley

It would be amazing to have somebody by your side no matter what.

This video for my Laid Back Tuesday features these old ladies

who had been BFF's forever.

Watch and have a good laugh with what

they had to say with some of the modern "stuff".

This will be you too .... in the long run.

But with a friend like that,

I won't mind.

Who is that most trustworthy among your friends

that you feel like you will be able to spend a 100 year old friendship with?

Do share it with him/her this post.

He/She would appreciate it more than ever.

AUDITIONS

To all Filipino talents, if you want to fulfill your dreams of performing abroad,

try out for the following auditions.

Check out this website for more details!

Hello everyone!

I've stumbled on this so I thought of sharing it for my

"Do-it-yourself Monday".

Remember, your fortune is in your hands and

as inspired by the 2014 Oscar Winner of Best supporting actress,

LUPITA NYONG'O's "Acceptance Speech",

“When I look down at this golden statue,

may it remind me and every little child

that no matter where you’re from your dreams are valid,” 

Make your dreams a reality!

Join us!

MUI KEE

A gem in Tsim Sha Tsui's concrete jungle, Mui Kee had served our hunger well with good Chinese food and pushed aback by the smoothest beer I've ever had. I was so grateful for a night of good friends, good food and good drink. As always, this is what I look forward to when going out.

Right after work, we headed to the city for dinner when one of my friends, Sky, recommended for all of us to try this cookfood stall located at G/F, 45-47Kimberly Road, Kimberly Plaza, Tsim Sha Tsui. We were teasing her that she should thank her lucky stars that it didn't fail our standards because we were just going hungrier every step we take towards MUI KEE as she chats about it. It was a Wednesday night, not supposed to be busy but we had to wait a good 8-minute stand by outside to land a free table of 5. That can give you an idea of how packed this place could get.

Definitely not my first time to taste Hong Kong's bests like lemon chicken, deep-fried pork ribs garnished with toasted garlic and pepper to taste but it was my first time to experience their fried pork knuckle, the oh-so-smooth Harbin beer and the company of these fabulous ladies altogether.

How to get there depends on what transportation you decide to take but hopefully, this map helps you out. As you can see, Exit B2 is the nearest to it then the long walk is all worth it at the end. And only for around HK$50 to HK150 per person.

Gastronomically speaking, a little reminder to those whose stomachs are not used to Asian cuisine. Some reviews go that they had indigestion or discomforts after eating here but we all had 2 servings of almost everything that we ate. Besides the fact that we were very hungry upon reaching the place, we were just really special that we go with a construction worker's appetite to describe it or better yet, a truck driver's. Hahaha!

GIVING BIRTH THE KANDU WAY

Since today is the day that my sister gave birth to Jesse boy, my second nephew, it drove me to researching different methods of giving birth online. The very one thing that amazed me was how the Kandu family did it. This video was when she gave birth to the second one already that's why it looked easier probably. But she gave birth to the first baby at home too. Some of you expecting mommies out there (like I am currently), might want to watch this as it is different and not commonly preferred though not necessarily ineffective. I believe she's right with the right mind set, it is possible.

MY VALENTINE'S GIFT

It had been almost 7 years before I have let go of my SONY Vaio belonging to VGN-SZ series. I still won't because performance wise, it still satisfies me except for the dying screen.

According to the surgeons of Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po, including my ever trusted people in Fu Tung, it easily heats up because of the principle of "Wear-and-Tear" and this is what makes the screen act up. But it was really time to say goodbye to it too and say hello to my new toy MacBook Air courtesy of my husband.

Nothing fancy this year compared to our other Valentine's before. It is our first Valentine's together as husband and wife, yes. ... and it's the start of accepting priorities and answering to needs first before whims. So, instead of flowers (which may die out in 3 days), chocolates (which, I'm not a fan), jewellery (which is plainly luxurious but useless), he had given me a shopping spree for whatever laptop I would choose. uBerYEHEY!!!!

I was having a toss of which to get: ACER ASPIRE S7 or MacBook Air but reviews, friends and my husband had advised the latter. I was a little bit worried in terms of how accustomed I was with using Windows for a long time. And the knowledge I'm holding onto upon purchasing MacBook was from using my iPhone 4 before. I'm starting to explore by posting this blog using it for the first time. Reviews and comparisons will be posted soon as I get familiar with it.

Thank you so much Hogan. I LOVE YOU.

HEARTS DAY PLAYLIST

 "According to Greek Mythology, humans were originally created

with four arms, four legs, and a head with two faces.

Fearing their power, Zeus split them into two separate beings,

condemning them to spend their lives in search of their other halves."

- Plato's "The Symposium"

Happy Heart's Day everyone! Valentine's Day is one of my favorites because I grew being pampered together with my two other sisters including my mom by our father with little surprises when this day approaches. The most memorable one was the little pot of red roses my dad had left in each of our rooms one time and ever since, the vibe was built up in me that I look forward to it every year.

What other way could be much more effective than injecting music to this moving occasion besides the chocolates, cards and flowers? We want to consider those who aren't into those treats, right? Let alone the mood to take them away. So I thought of compiling some latest additions to my February 2014 playlist to share to you. Please feel free to comment and share some of your preferred songs thru the comment box below this post.

1. "GIVE ME LOVE" by the uprising Ed Sheeran tops my list. This MTV was a little vague to understand but that's an understatement when you are in love. I would always pray for God to show my purpose to me. I pray not because I want to go to heaven but I want to serve my purpose. And usually, answers come during the most annoying circumstances. "Your purpose is to give right at this moment...", "...to accept at this moment...", or hard ones like: "....to let go", or "...to wait"..."to forgive". So in conclusion, "TO LOVE" umbrellas all of these. It is our purpose, yours and mine.

2. "XO" by Beyonce of course made its way during the holidays but the very message is true. Never wait for that moment to pass you by. If you love the person, say it out loud and don't let go of that opportunity to express it. After all, we are only given one life to live.

3. "I ADORE YOU" by Miley Cyrus. Needless to say, Miley had been veeeerrrryy comfortable onscreen that her MTV needs its own filter. I mean, yes, Gaga was no different but she is gaga because she expresses her opinions which usually and most of the time, were touching moral values, art, fashion and even political issues. Anyway, this particular single is relaxing and sexy to listen to. It's my first time to get attracted to rhythm first before the lyrics. Perfect for this time of the year.

4. "ALL OF ME" by John Legend. He is such a good writer and singer. He's a male Alicia Keys for me. Very soulful song. The woman in this MTV that he's with is his wife up until the present and I'm pretty sure he dedicates it to her fully. Because the lyrics fits her so much.

5. "BODY PARTY" by Ciara. No explanations needed with how this song could just live up a room to getting it on. Ciara never fails to show love y'all!

6. "DRUNK IN LOVE" by Beyonce featuring hubby Jay-Z puts you in a spell and more likely encourages you to not fear being playful with your own spouse. After all, it's up to both of you on how you'd keep the flame on in marriage's entirety! This collaboration had not stopped the couple in doing the public display of affection while performing this live in their controversial number at the Grammy's.

7. "FIRE WE MAKE" by Alicia Keys & Maxwell
Sometimes, even when love didn't last longer than you expected, you get hold of that very moment that made each cell of your body alive. Listen up to this and it makes you want to just lie down on 10 pillows as the music feels so good to indulge in.

The next ones are not really that up to date but it is a good Valentine's jam. Hear it out!

8. "YOU MAKE ME FEEL LOVED" by Paula Cole was a single from the Original Soundtrack of the movie, "City of Angels". Now that is an all time favorite alright!

9. "BROWN SKIN" by India Arie
Who wouldn't be drawn to the voice in the first place? Ha! This song is sung by her in her most velvety voice that listening to it makes you walk in the clouds. She seems just talking as the words flow out into a melody. This lady wows me.

10. Now it's your turn to fill this up to finish my playlist. Please do help me out. Thanks!

Gold & Glitter Glamour

I have just recently cleared up this tube of its fabulous glittering lotion which I have found from Angsana Laguna Resort in Phuket. My husband and I were graced to see its beauty for our honeymoon and our stay came with 2,000 Bath worth of gift vouchers at its own goody shop. Besides the artifacts and souvenirs that Phuket is known for, they have a superb SPA section complete with cooling eye pillows, rejuvenating lotions and pretty much, lavender and avocado flavored, scented and based beauty products and SPA gift sets. We have purchased an Avocado hair moisturizer (which both my husband and I loved) which undoubtedly left our hair silky smooth and soft, relaxing lavender eye pillow and the one thing I find most special of all is this Gold & Glitter Moisturizing Body Gel.

I go for Unscented to Mild Cucumber to lovely Strawberry scents. That being said, I don't go for "too strong" or "too heavy" scents for my bath and body products. I always just want to smell fresh. That's one quality of this product that I truly loved. In addition, it makes you golden but it doesn't stain your clothes at all. The gold flakes are subtle yet well immersed in the gel so, it doesn't clump together on your skin after applying it on. It is refreshing just as how it aims to satisfy its users since they go for holistic customer experience. Some of its ingredients include: Hydrolized Pearl, Hydrolized Wheat, Glycine Sola (soybean), Protein, Fragrance oil, Iron Oxides, Gold, Leaf extracts and Sericin. This had served me well this past Holiday season too as it gave me a "glittering effect". Very uplifting!

Further information regarding the product (if you want to purchase) can be found here.

RUSSEL PETERS

Having a good sense of humor is sexy. And carrying it with confidence is much sexier. That's why I ended up marrying my husband. Hahaha! But HAPPY PEOPLE in general gives out this vibe of being so attractive because come on! Admit it! Who wants to be with a boring person? Or who wants to be with a predictable one. 3 out of 5 people will answer HAPPINESS as their aspiration. And it's always a mystery to some people. Self help books are there to feed us information regarding this and so many people had shared their own experiences.

Credits to Russel Peters for these qualities and it's admirable to come across people who knows when to be funny and how to be confident. Not to mention, his capability to intellectually arouse you is a gift.




Indulging on a 45 minute comedy will do your soul wonders in a matter of balancing it. I love the idea that I was laughing not because of a lot of swearing or nasty jokes. But it was just plainly funny. This show will also stimulate your curiosity. I don't know how he does it though. But at some point, I'm sure you'll agree or disagree but if you don't at all laugh at any segment, have a shrink check you out.

BUCKET LIST

The month of January is very popular for making New Year's Resolutions. I am pretty sure that you have completed your list right about now. But I have another challenge for all of you out there. Have you ever tried coming up with a "bucket list"? Now, here's for you to understand it a little more of what it is. Watching the whole movie could even be a better idea.

I had a list before and right now, I would like to put the new one in writing as I erase some that I have accomplished so far from the previous one. I wrote it more than 5 years ago. And I think it's the best time to reassess and change it now to give room to a few more. If you want to see the previous list, click here.

I aim to...

1. ...be able to drive anytime soon. The dream of having the car was so far fetched as of now as Hong Kong holds the best public transportation services and having a car here is just waaaayyyy toooo impractical.

2. ... have a house in Samoa. I still love a lot of glass in my house but not in the form of mirrors this time. Ideally, windows that would make sunlight come in effortlessly during the day to light up the house and during the night, it will show the stars since Samoa got the clearest, most non-polluted sky.



3. ... be able to see the pyramids of EGYPT, ride the gondola in VENICE, ride the PARIS's Eiffel Tower's elevators again, walk through the Great Wall of CHINA, pass by the River of the Nile, be blessed in River Jordan, see the Niagra Falls and the Taj Mahal....

Basically, it's the same with the #3 from the first bucket list I have but this time, I would want to include:

  ...to be able to visit Harbin for the annual "Ice Show" every January.

4. ... learn Cantonese fluently. The conversational skill I learned could be a good jump start.

5. ... bungee jump. Or sky dive. Anything that will surely take my breath away. Not my life please... Hahahaha!!!

6. ... go on a cruise.

7. ... put up a business.

8. ... write a book.

9. ...fulfill my womanhood by giving birth. You may find this silly because naturally, a woman gives birth, right? But this is really a huge deal for me. Because, this is one of my fears... to give birth to a child. I fear being cut that's it.

10. ... add a lock to Love Locks in Verona, Italy.

Now, you might be thinking why I am just limiting it to 10 items only every time. Well, it makes it more attainable for me. Of course, I'm welcome still to have different firsts outside my list. Like last year, I was able to fly my sky lantern which I wanted to do for a long time.

If you have read my previous list, it was stated very much in a silly way. Though it surprised me that some of what I wanted to happen actually did such as being able to visit Singapore with friends (which marked my second in that country); I am on my 6th year performing internationally; I was able to paint something (the Jungle skirt pattern which is now at my mom's house in the States; and I am married with my soul mate.

Work out your bucket list and make it happen. New Year's Resolutions are welcome but a bucket list kind of makes it happen.

What satisfies you?

I learned from my sociology teacher when I was in college that SATISFACTION is something that a human being may never possess. If you watch a juggler, and let's say, he juggles 3 oranges, you would always hear somebody from the crowd shout "Can you do 4"? If he does 4, you may find yourself expecting that he would juggle 5. After he does, and gets the 6th, somebody will always challenge him until the 7th, the 8th, the 9th and the 10th 'til he distracts your attention into something else. Otherwise, people's demands will never stop.

There are times, you unexpectedly give in to your envy and would buy the same shoes your friend got last Holiday season because so many are admiring it and you want the same attention. Some cultures allow men to have more than one wife because the first one is not sufficient enough to comply for what the husband needs. Plastic surgery, botox and anything alike are more in demand now because you just want to look prettier when actually, there's nothing wrong with your face. Those who go under the knife describes it as "enhancing" what they have. Philosophies like: "NO woman will say she had enough shopping.", or "NO woman could say she has enough shoes." had been accepted socially that it becomes a way of life to arising fashionistas. As a matter of fact, I don't even know why being one is a determining factor of which status you belong to nowadays. Obese men and women are pretty obvious with what they consume in excess yet they defend their bad habits like it's a civil right. Issues with money, fame and power fall in the same idea. Nobody can get enough of it.

But for people like Sam Berns, they aim for the simplest form of satisfaction. To be able to survive everyday not feeling indifferent but able. To hear what he has to share about happiness, watch this.

People like him wants for just life itself. NO MORE, NO LESS. He gets satisfied with how simple it could get. Or should I say, simple for us but more than extraordinary for him considering his condition. I have dreamt of being in one of them TEDtalks but I couldn't find anything "extraordinary" to talk about. I am not with a condition like this so that people would listen to me. I am still looking for that special message I would give justice speaking about to the whole world to be given at least 10 minutes in TED. Sam Burns, and so are the rest of the what we think are "abnormal" people because of how they look like, are even more capable if you would try to analyze it than the "normal" people like you and me. And there is just some dissatisfaction there on my account but let me transform that to something inspirational for myself. There is a challenge to each and everyone of us that nobody should set themselves to any limit most especially if we are going to talk about "full potential".

For my serene Sunday, pray that you may serve your purpose before your own life is taken away from you. Sam Burns died last night according to a post on TEDx's Facebook page. But he made it happen. He delivered the message he was meant to deliver. Live life happily and do not dwell in something that will make you feel dead and unable.

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