By Peter Townson
Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano regale an appreciative crowd at the Al Ahli stadium.
Thousands of Filipinos turned out at the Al Ahli stadium on Thursday night (April 8, 2010) to see two of their country’s superstars. Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano performed ‘As 1’ on stage.
The concert was sold out and a large number of Qatar’s OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) got a chance to sing along.
Having been rivals for the majority of their careers, the two singers have been at the top of the charts in the Phillipines for years, but last night’s concert was part of the duo’s tour as partners and best friends.
With ‘Pure Energy’, Gary Valenciano being known as the Philippines’ Michael Jackson, and the ‘Concert King’, and crooner Martin Nievera drawing comparisons with the likes of Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble, the difference between the two stars could not be more obvious. However, it is the fact that both occupy opposite ends of the spectrum that made Thursday’s concert such a success.
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I was there!!! But I didn't buy ticket. I was a volunteer.
It's our first time to do so. I couldn't believe that we pulled some of the 20 feet long carpets, laid it on the ground of Al Ahli Stadium where the chairs for "Yellow" and "VIP" ticket buyers will be placed. Arranged the chairs and numbered them as well. Yes, I did it because I was part of the volunteers for "manpower". My feet really ache before the concert begins so I decided to sit on the grass and watch as people pass by. Whew! I'm really exhausted and hungry as well.
I told myself that next time, I would be in the VIP seat so I can enjoy the show without thinking that I might be scolded because I forget that I am a volunteer. "Rule no. 1, as volunteer your mission is to serve. I don't want to see you being in the forefront getting autographs or pictures of Gary V. and Martin", that's the reminder to all of us by Kuya Roy Ocampo, the Head of the Security for the concert.
Anyway, all of my body pains, thirst and hunger went up to the sky when Gary V. sings "Take me out of the dark", "Babalik ka rin", "The Warrior is a child" and many more of my favorite songs. I danced with the crowd when he sings " Sa Yahweh" at "Ihataw ang galaw". I cheered, clapped also with the crowd when Martin Nievera serenades us of "Be my lady", "Ikaw ang aking Pangarap" and more songs that I loved.
Mr. Peter Townson is right when he said that last Thursday concert was a success. I was there and we made it!
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