It's Santos time

World-class balladeer and musical theater artist Gerald Santos, alongside pop covers queen Aila Santos, will showcase their musical gifts this December. Gerald Santos, who made the nation proud as Thuy in the international touring production of Miss Saigon, will perform at Newport Performing Arts Theater on 3 December in a concert titled Dreams. Meanwhile, Aila Santos takes the more intimate Teatrino stage for her It’s My Turn concert on 13 December.

Santos’ playlist

Asked what’s new in his concert, Gerald said, “Definitely the repertoire. These songs were never in my previous shows because they didn’t fit the themes. This time, audiences will hear anthems I love singing in the mirror, in the shower, and songs I’ve always wished were given to me by their composers — tunes that drew me in as a young boy.”

“All of them are challenging and emotional, and the stories in the lyrics truly hit my heart. Some songs were originally performed by female artists, so arranging them for a male singer adds another layer of excitement,” he added.

Two songs in the official repertoire are “What Kind of Fool Am I?” from “Stop the World — I Want to Get Off” and “Memory” from Cats. “Ate Regine’s version of the first song left a mark on me, and later Martin Nievera’s inspired me to perform it on a big stage,” Gerald said. About “Memory,” he said, “Ever since I first heard it, it has evoked hope, loneliness and nostalgia all at once. I want to give my own interpretation of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s composition.”

When asked about a song he never tires of singing, Santos said, “Hanggang will always have a special place in my heart. It was my winning piece in Pinoy Pop Superstar.” His favorite Miss Saigon show tune is “Sun and Moon (Reprise),” a scene that never fails to bring tears, showing how true love can endure.

Looking ahead, Gerald shared his Broadway dreams: “I was almost cast as Marius in Les Misérables before the pandemic halted production. I’m still working hard to make it happen. What’s meant for you will never pass you by!”

Aila’s turn

While it’s Gerald’s time to shine, Aila is grateful to her producer Carnie Banares of Stargaze Production and musical director Marvin Caldito. “This is a dream coming true,” she said. “I’ve been performing with my R2K band on YouTube, and it’s been getting so much love. We’ve also performed abroad. I can’t put into words how happy I am that this is happening.”

She finds Teatrino ideal for her first concert: “I’m taking baby steps — nothing too ambitious. It’s the perfect place to say, ‘Yes, it is my turn.’”

Aila admitted, “I’m nervous, but it’s the good kind. Fans, our YouTube followers, and newcomers are guaranteed a great time. Most of the songs will be covers, with a few originals sprinkled in.”

Performing with her is R2K, composed of Lucky Sunday Soriano (guitar), Ephraim Dave Fernandez (drums), Eric Corda (bass) and Jason Nemenzo (keyboard).

She concluded, “I hope people join us and show love and support. This long-time wish in my heart is finally coming true, making this part of my journey unforgettable. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who will join me in

It’s My Turn.”