Bituin Escalante’s star stays bright, 25 years later

Bituin Escalante, a name synonymous with powerful vocals and captivating performances, is set to mark a significant milestone in her illustrious career. On 10 May, the celebrated singer-actress will grace the stage of the Samsung Performing Arts Theater with a grand concert celebrating 25 years of enchanting audiences with her artistry.

Escalante’s journey, a tapestry woven with threads of music, theater and film, has been nothing short of extraordinary. From her early days as a theater actress to her meteoric rise as a pop music icon, she has consistently captivated audiences with her unique blend of talent and passion.

Her breakthrough came in 2002 with her soulful rendition of “Kung Ako Na Lang Sana,” which not only won the grand prize at the Himig Handog Love Songs, but also cemented her place as one of the most prominent voices in the Philippine music industry. This award-winning song, written by Soc Villanueva, catapulted her to stardom, earning her accolades and solidifying her position as a beloved figure in the OPM scene.

Beyond her musical triumphs, Escalante has consistently pushed creative boundaries, seamlessly transitioning between stage and screen. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her carefully curated repertoire, which seamlessly blends musical theater classics with contemporary OPM hits.

The right storyteller

In a recent interview, Escalante shared her vision for the upcoming concert. “The concert celebrates OPM in theater and in film,” she explained. “I feel like I’m the right storyteller for that because I have lived both the musical theater life and the life on film. Most of the movies I’ve worked on have involved musical roles for me. I feel like I can tell a story. I have the right to put this into a whole concept for my 25th anniversary.”

The concert promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience, featuring a dynamic blend of musical styles and showcasing the collaborative spirit that has always been a hallmark of Escalante’s career. “It’s really a celebration of theater and film,” she emphasized. “There’s young blood joining. The musical director is Krina Cayabyab [Ryan Cayabyab’s daughter].”

This collaborative approach ensures that the concert will not only be a retrospective of Escalante’s career, but also a platform for emerging talents in the Philippine music scene.

‘Busier this year’

Reflecting on the past year, Escalante spoke of her recent experiences, including a memorable trip to the United States with her children and her critically acclaimed role in the musical, Pingkian.

She also expressed immense pride in her year-end performances with renowned artists like Martin Nievera and Lea Salonga, as well as her role in the highly acclaimed 2024 MMFF film Isang Himala.

However, the path to this milestone has not been without its challenges. Escalante candidly discussed the difficulties she faced during the concert’s preparation, particularly after the passing of her dear friend and collaborator, Floy Quintos.

“It was incredibly difficult. I considered canceling the project at one point,” she revealed. “But thanks to the support of those who loved Floy and cherished musical theater, we decided to move forward and tell this story.”

Despite the hurdles, Escalante remains optimistic about the future. “I claim I will be busier this year!” she declared, hinting at an exciting year ahead filled with new projects and creative endeavors.

Bituin Escalante’s 25th-anniversary concert is not merely a celebration of her musical achievements; it is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft, her commitment to nurturing young talent, and her unwavering belief in the power of music and theater to move and inspire.

As she prepares to take the stage on 10 May, audiences eagerly anticipate a night filled with unforgettable music, heartfelt stories and a celebration of one of the most beloved voices in Philippine entertainment.