ARMAGEDDON

This 2012,

GRAVITY will pull us CLOSER…
HEAVENLY BODIES will SMASH against each other…
The END of the WORLD will never be any WILDER!

As UP SANDIWA together with Petron and Universal Robina Corporation

In cooperation with Gran Matador Brandy, and Fourth Wall

Brings you
ARMAGEDDON

A Black Party

FEB 11, 2012 @ Blue Onion Eastwood, QC

FREE FLOWING DRINKS | FREE HENNA TATTOO| OUT of this WORLD Games| witness REVELATION unfold at 12MN!

All these and more ‘coz we ought to…
LIVE LIKE THERE’S NO TOMORROW!

(For the benefit of the Aeta Community in Tarlac)

Like us on Facebook (Armageddon 2012)

Follow us on Twitter (@_armageddon2012)

Armageddon Party at Blue Onion Eastwood City

When in Manila and a die-hard pro wrestling fan, chances are you can only get your fix through watching wrestling on TV or on YouTube (if you hate the commercials and fast forward through the women’s wrestling matches).

Manila has not had a chance to witness a live wrestling event since 2009 but that will change when WWFX, or the World Wrestling Fan Xperience: Champion Showcase Tour 2012, hits our shores this weekend.

The outfit promises to be the most fan-interactive wrestling promotion this side of the world. One of the ways it plans to prove that is through the WWFX Fan Contest.

The WWFX Fan Contest will give two lucky fans (one male and one female) the chance to be part of the event as either a guest ring announcer for one match, or as a manager, accompanying one of the superstars during his/her match.

To be part of the contest, fans must answer the question, “Who is your favorite Wrestler on WWFX?” and post a picture of themselves holding their ticket to the show and upload it on the show’s like page, https://www.facebook.com/WWFXManila

When WhenInManila.com contributor Stan found out about the contest, he knew he wouldn’t be able to resist the idea of possibly being the guest ring announcer at the event, so he took my pride, swallowed it, and joined the contest. 

See how Stan transforms into a Wrestling Pro Announcer for this contest on the link below

The contest ends this week and Stan could be days away from living out a boyhood dream. His photo can be found over at https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2538463227064&set=o.147318528706454&type=3&theater, where you can find his answer to the question. (Hint: My answer involves the letters M, V, and P)

The WWFX Champion Showcase Tour 2012 is on Saturday, February 4, 7:30 PM, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Among the wrestlers performing live on Saturday are former WWE superstars Carlitos, Chris Master, John Hennigan, Shelton Benjamin, Rhino, MVP, Hurricane Helms, and “Mr. Ass” Billy Gunn.

Pro Wrestlers in Manila: WWFX World Wrestling Fan Experience

When in Manila and you want to rest from the hustle and bustle of city living, you’ll find that a lot of entertainment options are available, the most popular of which is – you guessed it right – movie.

And to TriNoma Cinema 7 I went, thanks to Sanuk’s cool movie treat. Sanuk, the international brand of funky and comfy footwear, expressed its gratitude to its loyal clients and Facebook fans with a grand eyeball highlighted by a special screening of Contraband.

And a neat movie experience it was.

Contraband is your standard heist movie, tackling issues of betrayal, corruption, and family. Chris Farraday (Mark Wahlberg) is a former smuggler who is shoved back to smuggling to pay off the debt of his brother-in-law Andy (Caleb Landry Jones) to a drug dealer, Tim Briggs (Giovanni Ribisi).

The huge debt, which resulted from Andy’s failed drug smuggling operation, is due in two weeks, a tight deadline that in part sets up the suspense in the movie.

What follows are scenes filled with tension. The movie keeps the audience on the edge of their seats as they follow Chris and his team obtaining counterfeit dollar bills, loading them into the cargo ship on time, keeping them out of the knowledge of the already suspecting captain, all while Chris struggles with news about Tim hassling Chris’s wife (Kate Beckinsale) and two boys.

Apparently, the movie gets the thriller part right by enriching the plot with a race-with-time energy. But it generally struggles with reality. Many of the scenes, not to mention the circumstances that lead to these scenes, are potentially impossible in real life and are only fashioned and set up in a way to excite the audience.

But then again, it’s a movie of purely fictional kind – the type wherein everything is possible for well-intentioned people like Chris. And with Chris I empathized. Just like the rest of the audience, who obviously enjoyed Contraband and the exciting freebies from Sanuk.

Of course, our thanks go to Sanuk Grand Eyeball. True to its tagline – “Smile…Pass it on!” – Sanuk wants every client to experience the happy, cool vibe and to be so inspired to share it with others.

And definitely, with such a generous heart, Sanuk will be coming up with fab events such as this especially for the Sanuk community. So When in Manila, watch out for them! 

Like Sanuk on Faceboook

Visit their website: www.sanuk.ph

Contraband Movie Review: Premiere Night Starring Mark Wahlberg and Kate Beckinsale

When In Manila, Ballet Philippines ends its 42^nd Season with undying love in the all-new contemporary ballet, “Pusong Wagas” on February 17 to 19 at the CCP Little Theater.

BP resident choreographer Alden Lugnasin creates his original contemporary ballet based on the legend of the city of Mandaluyong, with libretto by Nicolas B. Pichay and original music by independent music icon Cynthia Alexander.

Set in pre-colonial Manila, the story highlights the exemplary love of Luyong, a gifted carpenter, and Manda, a tribal princess, and their sacrifice in the face of the coming foreign invaders. This work is co-produced by the City of Mandaluyong and Hon. Mayor Benjamin Abalos Jr.

BP Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales says, “We are encouraged that local governments like Mandaluyong find it important to support works that have historical and cultural significance, and we hope that it will encourage the other local governments and the national government to do the same.”

Tickets are at P600 to P1000, with performance dates on February 17 and 18 at 3 PM and 8 PM, and February 19 at 10 AM and 3 PM. Student and senior citizen discounts apply.

Ballet Philippines’
“Pusong Wagas”
Category: dance, contemporary

Pusong Wagas, is a full-length work by resident choreographer Alden Lugnasin with original music by an independent music icon, Cynthia Alexander. Based on a libretto by Nicolas B. Pichay, this production is inspired by the legend of Mandaluyong. Set in pre-colonial Manila, the story highlights the exemplary love of Luyong, a gifted carpenter and Manda a tribal princess and their sacrifice in the face of the coming foreign invaders. This work is co-produced in cooperation with the City of Mandaluyong.

Date and Time:
February 17, 2011 / 3PM & 8PM
February 18, 2011 / 3PM & 8PM
February 19, 2011 / 10AM & 3PM

Venue: Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theater)
Tickets: P1000 / P600

Ballet Philippines’ “Pusong Wagas” perfect for Valentine’s weekend

When In Manila, come join the Mellow 94.7 School of Jocks (SoJ) Open Auditions 2012. Do you have what it takes to be a radio personality?

Have you always wanted to be a DJ? Do you have what it takes to be on radio? Are you tough enough? Take on the challenge!

Mellow 94.7’s official student-centric radio show opens its doors this year 2012 to all aspiring bona fide college students to try out and be part of School of Jocks.

When In Manila, show us what you’ve got and make your way to LAZERXTREME, 4TH floor of MARKET MARKET on February 04 Saturday at 12noon. Bring your resume and a copy of your school ID, and be ready to meet your favorite Mellow 947 jocks.

Exciting surprises await the first 50 auditionees!

This is a Student Internship type of program so only College Students can qualify. 

Mellow 94.7 School of Jocks OPEN AUDITION 2012.

Special thanks to LazerXtreme, extreme fun for everyone.

Mellow 947 School of Jocks Auditions

LAZERXTREME Market! Market!

Feb 4, 2012

starting at 12noon

Bring student ID and resume

Radio DJ Auditions Manila Philippines: Mellow 947 School of Jocks Student Jock Tryouts

When In Manila, Katy Perry kissed a boy in the Philippines, and she liked it!

Check out the video and pics of this lucky guy with Katy Perry in Manila!

I. WANT. TO. BE. HIM! If only I could have wrestled him away from Katy and stolen that kiss!

The guy is Ivan Dorschner, a Pinoy Big Brother contestant from the PBB Teen Clash 2010 edition.

Funny thing is that according to our good friend and Katy Perry concert correspondent at the scene, Francine Prieto, she states that Derek Ransay was actually one of the people whom fans were screaming at to go on stage but was apparently “shy.” I guess that’s something only a Katy Perry can do!

Katy Perry asked for one shirtless guy from the crowd and Ivan Dorshner was glad to oblige. Katy Perry was so playful and fun! You can even see Miss Peacock here pinching the shirtless Ivan Dorshner’s nipple! 

So lucky Ivan Dorshner was able to go on stage and live out every man’s California Dream with Katy Perry in Manila, if only for a few blissful seconds.

Even Katy Perry herself had a blast! Here’s what she had to say on her Twitter page: “Thanks for an AMAZING FINAL CDT date Manila! Sorry to keep u waiting earlier… had to solve a security issue, but THE SHOW WENT SPLENDIDLY!” -Katy Perry via Twitter (@katyperry)

Katy Perry Kissed a Boy in the Philippines: Lucky Filipino Fan at Katy Perry Concert

Painting by Zaldy Garra

Asian Cultural Council sets Feb. 4

Fundraising Auction

Constantly championing the Filipino artist, the Asian Cultural Council Phils. holds its annual art auction on Feb. 4, 2012 to raise funds for its Philippine Fellowship Program.

Since its establishment in 2000, the ACC Philippines together with ACC New York Foundation, have been providing grants to over 60 Filipino artists in various disciplines. In the last two years, grants were given to nine Filipino artists in the field of visual arts, museology, enthomusicology, theater, and music.

This year’s auction features the artworks of Filipino masters and top contemporary artists courtesy of ACC gallery partners– Artis Corpus Art Gallery, Art Verite, Big Gallery, Boston Gallery, Crucible Gallery, Finale Art File, Galleria Duemila , Galerie Joaquin, Kingkong Art Projects Unlimited, Liongoren Gallery, Mag:Net Gallery, Manila Contemporary, Pinto Gallery, Silverlens Gallery, Sining Kamalig, The Drawing Room Gallery and Tin-Aw Gallery.

Some of the most distinguished visual artists and ACC grantees have also pledged participation in the event.

The ACC benefit auction starts 4PM at the Finale Art File, Makati. Exhibit is on Feb. 2, 2012 while online viewing starts Jan. 28, 2012 at www.asianculturalcouncil.org.

Not Until We dare, 2011 by Daniel de la Cruz

Krus na Daan, #1., 1998 by Renato Habulan

an·am·ne·sis, 2011 by Don Salubayba

Play of Power, 2011 by Anton del Castillo

Buoy-05, 2010 by Gerry Leonardo

Transit Story 7, 2011 by Irma Lacorte

Painting by Ambie Abano

Painting by Pacita Abad

Asian Cultural Council Philippines Art Auction

When In Manila and sinking into your comfy couch after a hard way’s work, check out Solar Entertainment’s latest offerings to notch up your cable viewing experience!

Solar Entertainment is the media conglomerate responsible for cable networks ETC, 2nd Avenue, Jack TV, and Universal Channel. Rounding up a spectacular year in 2011, members of the press were invited to witness what these channels have in store for 2012 in All Aboard! Destination Entertainment at the Genting Club, Resorts World Manila last January 17, 2012.

Ah, the life of a blogger in a Solar Entertainment presser: food, live entertainment, and giveaways!

ETC made the big leap from cable to free television in 2011. With a commitment to airing the freshest episodes within days after their initial US broadcast, the No. 1 female channel in the country is ready to spoil everyone with new shows, new seasons, and new specials.

Starting the year with a bang, ETC brings the 11th season of American Idol this January 19 via satellite at 6 PM. Ryan Seacrest, Steve Tyler, Jennifer Lopez, and “Dawg” Randy Jackson are back as the latest season unfolds the real-life drama of aspirants (talented or not) aiming high and making it in the grandest stage of all! Project Runway Philippines is back with a vengeance as Tweetie De Leon hosts the hallmark fashion reality series in its third season. Then, catch Patti Grandidge (of the famed Sweet Patti Cakes) and Kim Jones as they keep track of the latest trends in fashion, TV, the web, and the youth in the locally produced show ETCETERA.

Project Runway Philippines’ new host Tweetie De Leon and (an obviously starstruck) me! 

2nd Avenue is the home of multi-awarded Modern Family and one of my personal favorites How I Met Your Mother. Ever since the suit-donning, woman-loving Barney Stinson (played by Neil Patrick Harris) took out his playbook to teach young hopeless romantics the secrets of his art, I got caught hook, and, and sinker laughing with the series!

A much talked about addition to the 2nd Avenue roster is the musical drama Smash, premiering on February 9. Boasting of a strong cast including Debra Messing (of Will & Grace fame), Anjelica Huston, Katharine McPhee, and Megan Hilty, the show is a Marilyn Monroe inspired drama centering on the highs and lows of creating a Broadway Musical. And for fans of The Talk, new show The Chew adds a sumptuous ingredient as its hosts discuss topics on lifestyle and food while – well, if you have three chef-hosts, what would you want them to do? – cooking up a feast!

The ratings weren’t lying when they announced Jack TV to be the top general entertainment channel in cable TV. Conan, Family Guy, and The Big Bang Theory are three shows that never fail to get me glued to the screen. I’m also excited with the new sci-fi drama Terra Nova. With Steven Spielberg as its executive producer, the show’s plot is definitely intriguing as it reveals another group of humans desiring to control the past, making the series not just a humans v. dinosaurs survival series.

 And Jack isn’t done just yet. Coming this February, follow the curious duo of fast-talking lawyer Harvey Specter and college dropout Mike Ross as they take on New York elite’s legal troubles in the legal drama Suits. 24’s Kiefer Sutherland makes his return to TV in Touch, a thriller about a young boy who can recognize patterns and predict events and his father (Sutherland) who tries to save the people who these events will affect. Also, our favorite characters from the brothers Grimm come to life the way the brothers conceived them to be: dark and fantastic. In Grimm, a homicide detective protects humanity from the supernatural creatures that each of us have been acquainted with through fairy tales.

With two of its channels taking top spots in general and female viewership and a parade of new shows and seasons to keep Filipino cable subscribers entertained, Solar Entertainment shows no signs of stopping. In fact, they’re crossing over by co-presenting Evanescence and Bush this February 19 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. And if you’re still craving for more, Solar Entertainment COO Peter Chanliong hinted on bringing Lady GaGa to the Philippines some time in the middle of this year.

When In Manila, be sure to check out Solar Entertainment in ETC, 2nd Avenue, Jack TV, and Universal Channel. Then go buy your tickets for Evanescence Live in Manila this February 19, 2012!

Patti and Kim of ETCETERA. Ah, the life of a blogger…

When In Manila, how about a day of techno stuff for educators and tech geeks of all ages? The Philippine National Robotics Competition and exhibition is staging the best of robotics stuff made by student robotics inventors and programmers from various schools all over the Philippines.

The robotics competition is the yearly gathering of all robotics student inventors and programming. We set-up various robotics games and exhibitions by students. There is also a tech-talk portion where a robotics inventor from Singapore will demonstrate the latest in robotics technology for schools.

This is really one exciting event and I do hope you can be part of this show. It will be on January 20, 2012, Friday at the Arena, San Juan City.

The program opens at 12:30pm until 4pm. However, the elimination rounds and workshops/seminars will begin as early as 9am. The championship round s in the afternoon.

This will be held on January 20, 2012 at the Arena, Santolan Road, San Juan City, and being presented by Genetic Computer Instituted, Pinoy Robot Games Foundation, Data Science Technology Corp. and Tech-Leap Inc. For the whole day, various student participants will demonstrate their rogramming skills and cunning robotics assembly and strategy using their own fabricated / improved robots or robot kits with carefully chosen sensors, i.e. light, touch, distance, etc.

The featured games at The Philippine National Robotics Competition and exhibition are:

Sumobots – Sumo wrestling by robots / Robot Battle

Prison Break – robots escape hurdles

Line Tracing – robots emerge through the maze

Robo Soccer – fully autonomous robots playing the game of soccer

For bloggers and media members, we have reserved a special section where you can witness the gaming action as they happen and a special room for food treats. We have also prepared a gift pack for you to remember this fun-filled event.
So, please do join us on this momentous event dedicated to all tech-lovers out there. The venue is being co-managed by SM Tickets and they charge only Php50/entrance. For this reason, I have already reserved FREE VIP tickets for bloggers, media members and for your companions.

When In Manila, unleash your geekiness and come join us at The Philippine National Robotics Competition and exhibition!

For the full program of the event, please visit www.genetic.edu.ph, (2012 Robotics).

Philippines National Robotics Competion Manila: SumoBot Wrestling  Robot Battle and more

When in Manila and looking to explore your senses, my favorite stop would be Nectar Restaurant.

A while back, I had the pleasure of coming to an exhibit in Nectar during their soft open stage (read more here). This was where I learned about Nectar’s concept: how the restaurant is centered around food and wine pairings, aiming to let everyone appreciate the wonders of vino.

Having enjoyed my last visit there, I grabbed the opportunity to go to another exhibit they were having.

“Synesthesia”, as Robert Joseph, Nectar’s owner and manager, explained to us, is a condition where the senses are intertwined. The very few people affected, for example, would be able to taste colors, or hear numbers.

That night, I walked into the same posh restaurant and I could hear the excited chatter of people who came to experience the exhibit.

In AB Paredes’ first solo exhibit entitled “Silent Swim”, she showcases a set of beautiful paintings on wood. The natural grain and texture of the wood, combined with her brushstrokes and vivid colors compose these pieces and form these most elegant paintings.

In a concept that’s fairly new, at least here in the Philippines, each piece is carefully paired with a wine that captures the whole look and feel of the painting. A gustatory interpretation through wine, a whole new way to experience art.

The exhibit has become not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the palette, in an experience that I could say is the closest I’ve ever been to synesthesia.

Silent Swim will be up for a few more weeks at Nectar Restaurant, which is now open to everyone.

With Nectar’s Robert Joseph

With none other than the artist herself, AB Paredes

When In Manila, be sure to experience how art is consumed in a way unlike ever before at “Silent Swim” by AB Paredes, hosted by Nectar Restaurant.

Silent Swim by AB Paredes

abparedes1@gmail.com

Nectar Restaurant

Ground Floor, Concorde Building, 200 Salcedo Street corner Benavidez Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City

4782941

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nectar-Restaurant/240990812613301 

SAVE THE DATE: Feb 4, 2012, 1pm, Fully Booked Bonifacio Global City. 
Happy Even After presents “Let’s Hear It From the Boys” 

Single guys will talk about happy even after beginnings with the solo moms they’ve married.

Admission is FREE, but slots are limited. Please call or text 0917.820.7277 (SASs) to reserve a slot.

Happy Even After: Single Guys and Solo Mom Workshop in Manila 

N.E.W. Network for Enterprising Women 5th Women Entrepreneurs Conference: Encouraging the Entrepreneur in YOU

Participant Fee (inclusive of snacks):

Early bird rate if paid on or before January 16, 2012:  Php 1,000

Regular Rate if paid after January 16 / Walk-in Rate :  Php 1,500

NEW members:  Php 1,000

Special Student rate:  Php 700

Each participant will also be given a  FREE GIFT PACK from our sponsors. Payments can be made through Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) under Network for Enterprising Women, Manila Assn, Inc., Checking Account # 4481-0051-46. Please bring your deposit slips on the day of the event for re-validation. We also accept major credit cards.

If you want to become a member of NEW, you can apply on this day. We have an annual membership fee of Php 1500. 

For inquiries and reservations, please call 908-2558 / 0917-5408697 or email newomen@gmail.com.  To register online, log on to www.newomen.net.

 One of the LIV5 poster design contest winner.

The Summer Set. Brian Dales, Jess Bowen, John Gomez, Stephen Gomez and Josh Montgomery. Hailing from Scottsdale, Arizona. Pop/Rock, Acoustic. Known for single “Chelsea”, “Love Like This” and the pop/punk version of Usher’s “Love In This Club.”
 

A Rocket To The Moon. Nick Santino, Justing Richards, Eric Halvorsen and Andrew Cook. From Braintree, Massachusetts. Alternative Rock/ Pop Rock. Very well-known to hopeless romantics with their songs “Like We Used To” and “Baby Blue Eyes.”
 

The Ready Set. Jordan Witzigreuter, one-man solo band. Fort Wayne, Indiana. Electronica/Techno, Indie Pop. TRS started gaining fans online independently with songs such as “Soular Flares” and “Atmosfears” before he got signed by Pete Wentz, then later on released a single “Love Like Woe.”

Forever The Sickest Kids. Jonathan Cook, Austin Bello, Kyle Burns and Caleb Turman. Burleson, Texas. PopPunk, Power Pop. Known for their singles “Whoa Oh! (Me Vs. Everyone)”, “What Do You Want From Me” and was named Number 1 Underground Band by Alternative Press Magazine.

A+ Dropouts. Cheska Zaide, Evan, Lucas and Liam. From Huntington Beach, California. Pop Rock. These kids are just teenagers, ages 14-15, and are already rocking out big stages like the legendary House Of Blues Anaheim. Lead girl Cheska, on the other hand, is being sponsored by Daisy Rock Guitars with her posters in every Guitar Center branch all over the US. 

Fun fact about Jess Bowen (The Summer Set) and Cheska Zaide (A+ Dropouts): They are both proud to be Filipinos! 

When In Manila, make sure to catch these 5 amazing bands rock out the malls at:

February 16, 2012 – Alabang Town Center

February 17, 2012 – Glorietta Mall

February 18, 2012 – Trinoma Mall

February 19, 2012 – Market! Market!

4 nights, 4 venue choices, all for FREE! 

But if you want to watch from the VIP area (reserved space up front), check out https://www.facebook.com/mmilive for more information and ticket inquiry.

LIV5 Live In Manila! 5 Rocking Bands In 4 Nights of Pure Music Madness! 

When in Manila, you can celebrate Chinese New Year with a grand feast in a grand hotel. Usher in the year of the Water Dragon this 2012 by celebrating it at the Diamond Hotel Manila. 

 Celebrate the Year of the Dragon at the Diamond Hotel

From January 20 to 23, you can spend the night at Diamond Hotel’s superior room inclusive of buffet breakfast for two at Corniche for only Php 5,800 nett or at Php 5,500 nett per night if staying for 2 consecutive nights.  

If you’re looking for a culinary celebration, you can opt to dine in Corniche and have a delectable Chinese Buffet that includes traditional dishes such as king Duck, Chinese Roasted Suckling Pig, Steamed Grouper and Assorted Dimsum as well as Turnip Cakes, Tikoy (Glutinous Rice Cake) and other sweet treats. All these for only Php 1,458++ per person from January 16-22, 2012 and Php 1,550++ per person on January 23, 2012, during the lunch or dinner buffet. Spend a minimum of Php 5,000 and get to pick a prize from the Prosperity Tree for a chance to win hotel accommodations, dining certificates, Health Club & Spa treatments, and more! 

To complete the festivities, guest can also enjoy the traditional Dragon and Lion Dance performance set at the hotel’s grand lobby on January 23, 2012, 11AM. 

To know more about Diamond Hotel and Corniche, you can visit the website at www.diamondhotel.com or visit their Facebook Fan Page at Diamond Hotel. You can also follow them on their Twitter account @DiamondHotelPH.

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI!

When in Manila and you’re looking for a place to spend New Year’s Eve, there are a lot of options you can choose from. You’ll be sure to find your cup of tea from our selection of parties and events abound the Metro. Whether you’re looking for a crazy night out or just a simple dinner with friends, you’ll find the right destination waiting for you.

Here are some of our collected New Year’s Eve parties you can choose from:

Bonifacio Global City

Prive Luxury Clubbing

The First Annual New Year’s Eve Ball

Saturday, December 31, 2011 10PM Onwards

Passed Hors d’Oeuvres 10PM to Midnight

Champagne Toast at Midnight

https://www.facebook.com/PriveLuxuryClub

The Establishment

2wenty Twelve

Enjoy unlimited booze the whole night at only P500!

For reservations and Inquiries Contact RJ @ 09175398661

Event Starts after the Fireworks at January 1st at 1AM!

https://www.facebook.com/events/127833890663978/

Izumi Sake Bar and Restaurant

2012 New Year Celebration

Party starts 1am

For inquiries, call (02)856-4090 or 0928-9683199

https://www.facebook.com/IzumiSakeBar

Makati City

Dusit Thani Manila

Dinner Buffet

 The countdown party officially starts at 10pm. Join them as you get serenaded by the AMP Band, the pioneers of Pinoy Jazz.

 Tickets:

 P 4,000 net (inclusive of Crossover Dinner and Open Bar between 10pm and 1.30am)

 For reservations, call (02)238-8888

 http://dusitthanimanila.dusit.com/

Greenbelt Mall

Inspire: Fireworks Display

Witness bright lights and colorful fireworks

December 31, 12 Midnight

For inquiries, contact the Greenbelt Concierge at 757-4853

https://www.facebook.com/Greenbelt.AyalaMalls?sk=wall

Makati Avenue

The Magical, Musical Makati New Year Countdown 2012

After a couple of years, the popular street party is back with a BANG! This year, performances by the Antimano Band, Bloom Brothers, Grupong Pendong, The Dawn, The Company, and more will be serenading attendees. There will also be a magic show, 15-minute pyromusical display, fire dancers, and raffle prizes. Salcedo Market food vendors will also be around to serve Medya Noche favorites.

http://www.makati.gov.ph/portal/news/view.jsp?id=2814&page=1

Mandarin Oriental

2011 Ultimate New Year’s Eve Countdown Party 

Dinner Buffet starts 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM 

The Tivoli – P3,900 net (Adult), P1,900 net (Child) 

Paseo Uno – P2,390 net (Adult), P1,190 net (Child) 

Tin Hau – Set menus available (P1,580 – P2,930 net) 

For reservations, call (02) 750-8888

Manila Peninsula Hotel

Sparkle Gala Ball (Dinner Buffet) 

This event has been ongoing for 17 years already. Because of this, it is no longer a surprise why it is dubbed as the most anticipated event of the year. Plans for this year include filling the entire lobby with confetti, balloons and champagne glasses. 

The dinner buffet is hosted by Executive Chef Patrick Boucher and will only be from 9pm until 12mn.

Tickets: 

P 6,700++ (including a glass of Champagne) 

P 6,200++ (adults) 

P 3,700++ (children below 12 years old) 

For ticket information and reservations, call (02)887-2888. 

http://www.peninsula.com/

Manila Peninsula Hotel

Salon de Ning After Party 

7:00 pm – 2:00 am 

P1,500 ++ (minimum consumption) 

Rockwell

31 to 1 100% Rockwell New Year Party 

The celebration starts at 7 p.m. and continues all the way till 1 a.m. At 10:30 p.m. and 12 midnight, marvel at the fireworks displays to welcome 2012. 

The Lopez Drive strip will be set up for an al fresco dining by none other than Powerplant Mall’s Barcino, Oyster Bar, Via Mare, Achiote and Kuretake. Catch the performances by Kush Kemistry and Brigada. The Rockwell Tent will also have a New Year’s Eve Party featuring DJ Cao Ocampo, Yoshi Uy, Amber Davis, David Ardiente, and DJ Buzz. 

For more information and inquiries, contact the Power Plant Mall at 898-1702 or log on to www.powerplantmall.com or https://www.facebook.com/PowerPlantMall.

Shangri-La Makati

New Year Countdown

Dinner buffet with performers

Tickets at P 5,000++

For reservations, call (02) 813-8888

Manila City

Diamond Hotel

New Year’s Eve Party

Corniche has a P2,011 New Year’s Eve Dinner special

27^th Floor Sky Lounge tickets at P750 net (inclusive of 2 drinks)

For reservations, call (02)528-3000

Hyatt Hotel and Casino

Dinner & Year End Party

Fireplace tickets at P4,500 (7-course dinner with Wagyu Beef)

Marketplace Buffet Dinner tickets at P1,888 net

Lili’s tickets at P1,688 net 8-course dinner (minimum of 2 persons)

33^rd Floor Roof Top New Year’s Eve Party

Tickets: P800 (walk-in)

For reservations, call (02) 245-1234 loc. 7818

Manila Ocean Park

Catch the Musical Fountain Show

December 31, 2011 6pm

http://www.manilaoceanpark.com/

Rizal Park

Catch the fireworks display starting 9pm. Music by Lady Valerie and Orchestra will be played during the wait. Families will get a thrill with the number of food booths situated around the vicinity.

The event is free and open to the public.

Pasay City

Republiq Club

2012 The Republiq New Year’s Eve Ball

December 31, 2011 Saturday

For guest list, contact Sha Supangan 0917-880-7827 or email pureatrepubliq@gmail.com

http://republiq-saturdays.tk/

https://www.facebook.com/REPUBLIQ.CLUB

Resorts World

Grand Fiesta Manila New Year Countdown

Live performances from groups Spirit of ’67, Ariba, Draybers, and Savorlatino await diners in Newport Mall and Bar 360.

Countdown starts at 10 pm.

For updates and more information, log on to www.facebook.com/rwmanila and www.rwmanila.com

http://www.rwmanila.com/entertainment-at-resorts-world-manila/gfm-2011/new-year-countdown

SM Mall of Asia

Countdown to 2012: The GMA New Year Special

The SM Mall of Asia New Year Countdown will start at 7 p.m. While the GMA-7 party starts at 11 p.m. Do check out the 15-minute fireworks display at midnight.

The event is free and open to the public.

https://www.facebook.com/smmallofasia 

Sofitel Manila

New Year’s Eve Party

Dinner buffet at Spirals starts at 6:30 PM

At 12 MN, there will be fireworks and a balloon drop

Tickets:

P7,231.94 net (Adult)

P3,615.97 net (Child)

For reservations, call (02)832-6988

Quezon City

Eastwood Mall

QC New Year Countdown to 2012

Grand Fireworks Display & Dazzling Star Drop at 12 Midnight featuring Gary V., Paolo and Gab Valenciano, Addlib Dancers, Billy Crawford, The Dawn, Amber Davis, Urbanation, Philippine AllStars

Eastwood Mall Open Carpark

December 31, 6PM Onwards

https://www.facebook.com/eastwoodcity

As always, stay safe and don’t drink and drive! Happy New Year from When in Manila team!

Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve: 2012 Manila NYE Parties

When in Manila, party hard in Republiq, Resorts World and update your status message – share what you are drinking or take a pic of who you are partying with –  through PDLT MyDSL.

PLDT MyDSL’s Holiday Gift for its subscribers is a wifi-enabled Metro Manila. From December 1, 2011 to January 15, 2011, PLDT Landline and MyDSL subscribers can enjoy FREE and unlimited WiFi access in over 2,000 hot spots in Metro Manila that has upgraded to the ultra fast PLDT WIFI Zone.

To officially launch this awesome gift, PLDT threw a big party in Republiq, Resorts World last Saturday, December 15th. We had too much fun that words, status messages and tweets are not enough to describe the party. Let the pictures do the sharing.  So who were at the party?

 Daiana Menezes at the PLDT MyDSL booth in Republiq

PLDT MyDSL’s Gary Dujali, Ma. Myla Villanueva, Janice Lag with Andrew Wolff and friends

PLDT MyDSL’s Executives with Anton Del Rosario, Andrew Wolff, Rovilson Hernandez, Troy Montero and Aubrey Miles

Rovilzon Hernandez and Will Devaughn

Sam Lewis and Marc Nelson

Who were spinning the disc?

NBK’s DJ Marc Naval with Rebupliq’s Roldan Capito, DJ Anthony San

And of course, I and my friends were there to party too!

When In Manila,  get connected as PLDT MyDSL Offers Free Unlimited Wifi Access in so many hot spots around the metro! 

Read this related post on how you can register and claim your gift.

 PLDT MyDSL’s Wifi-Enabled Metro Manila Launch at Republiq

When in Manila, I have always enjoyed partying with my friends. But for a bachelor party, we decided to go to Prague this time.

Prague isn’t as cheap as it used to be, but it’s still well worth a visit – particularly if you like the idea of going somewhere safe and pretty that’s guaranteed to be full of other bachelor parties! Since it became one of the top destinations for a guy’s final weekend of freedom the capital of the Czech Republic has been overrun by groups of boys out for a good time – resulting in an industry well set up for catering to your every need.

There are all the usual suspects, activity wise – you can go paintballing; pretend to be in a band for a day; go karting; go quad biking; and shoot clay pigeons. And with a city centre set up for wild nights out there’s no shortage of the amber nectar either! The beer in Prague is notoriously good. It used to be, as I say, notoriously cheap though these days you’ll be paying prices you would expect you find anywhere else that does a bachelor party – i.e. just the same as city beer back home. It’s a whole heck of a lot better than your average city beer, mind – proper European lager, cool and crisp and usually served in exotic looking Euro litre glasses.

The locals drink half litres, so if you want to blend in a bit (and get drunk slower!) that’s the way to go. There’s a lot more to Prague than strip bars and alcohol. The bachelor party that wants to soak up some of the sights will be well rewarded with a winter visit to one of Europe’s most dramatic-looking capitals. The city still retains much of its pre WWII architecture, including a stunning fairytale castle overlooking the centre.

To get to the castle you have to wander over the Charles Bridge, a wonderful Gothic structure strung with statues that look like they’ve just stepped out the scenes of a horror movie. If you’re going to go to Prague for the beer then you can’t leave without doing a tour of the Staropramen brewery. Staropramen is premium beer anywhere else in the world – here it’s what the locals drink lime water, and a trip to its home is well worth the entry fee. You get a long tour with plenty of tasting and tons of bar snacks along the way to help mop up the booze! Check out the John Lennon Wall for a bit of revolutionary youth culture (not to mention all the ace bars and cafes in the vicinity.

The Wall has nothing to do with John Lennon or the Beatles, who never came to Prague – it’s an ongoing statement made by the graffiti artists and youths of the city, who regularly decorate it with message of peace, love and revolution, You gotta love Eastern Europe : ) Wenceslas Square is amazing in the winter, something right out of a festive wonderland. Check out the stalls selling all sorts of terrifying local foods – if you’re man enough you can probably get a jar of pickled deer (it will have hooves in it) to go with your mulled wine. Prague is so much more than just a European capital for party animals – though it is definitely that too. If you want a bit of sightseeing and some awesome culture to go with your bachelor weekend, it can provide.

If, on the other hand, you just want to drink yourself stupid and look at girls with practically no clothes on (or indeed no clothes at all) – well, it can do that too.

About the Author The above article is composed and edited by Britney Danila. She is associated with many fashion and designing communities as their freelance writer and adviser. In her free time she writes articles related to stag weekends, fashion accessories, mobile applications, etc.

When in Manila, you don’t want to spend a million years paying bills when you could’ve just used the time spoiling yourself in the salon. It’s a cliche but you can’t deny that time is gold. Well, rejoice! No need for wasting time because BPI has a new promo in partnership with David’s Salon.

As the country’s leader in electronic banking, BPI continues to find innovating ways to satisfy the needs of their customers. Aside from their reliable online banking that lets you pay bills to over 300 merchants, BPI wants their customers to have more “me-time”; thus it partnered with David’s Salon. You get more “me-time” by having a free haircut and a manicure or pedicure. Yes, for free, if you have a BPI account or you’ll apply for one during the promo period.

 Here’s how you can avail of the promo:

Simply enroll in BPI Express Online and pay ANY bill! It’s that easy! Do this from Dec 5, 2011 til Feb 26, 2012 and get a FREE Haircut and Pedicure – OR – Manicure courtesy of David’s Salon. 

For those who get stressed due to battling looooooong lines everytime they pay bills, it’s best to enroll in BPI Express Online ASAP! No sweat in paying plus you get to pamper yourself at David’s!

Don’t let bills ruin your beautiful and handsome faces. Head on to your nearest David’s Salon branch after paying bills in seconds via BPI Express Online when you’re in Manila!

For more information about BPI 24/7 Banking and the ongoing promo with David’s Salon, visit www.bpiexpressonline.com

MAMMA MIA!

The Broadway & West End Smash Hit Musical Opens January

Finally, Manila is ready to watch MAMMA MIA! The international tour of the highly-anticipated musical, supported by the classic songs of ABBA, will be staged at the CCP Main Theater starting 24 January 2012, which has now been extended til12 February, for a limited season only!

MAMMA MIA! creative producer, Judy Craymer, first met Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, the song-writing geniuses behind ABBA. She was specially inspired by the song ‘The Winner Takes It All,’ its lyrics telling a roller-coaster story of love and loss, which became the basis in creating what would become MAMMA MIA!

Craymer did not change the lyrics because if audiences really listened to ABBA’s songs, they would notice how they fell into two different generations – the innocent, playful songs like ‘Honey, Honey’ and ‘Dancing Queen’, and the more reflective, emotional songs such as ‘The Winner Takes It All’ and ‘Knowing Me, Knowing You’. From the lyrical prowess of ABBA, the idea of a cross-generational love-story was conceived.

The story of MAMMA MIA! unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of Sophie Sheridan’s wedding, she goes on a quest to discover the identity of her father and brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels an enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship.

MAMMA MIA! 10TH ANNIVERSARY ON BROADWAY

It was 10 years ago when MAMMA MIA! had their Broadway premiere of at The Winter Garden Theatre. MAMMA MIA! then opened to one of the biggest advance sales in theater history.

MAMMA MIA! celebrated its 10th anniversary on Broadway last October – the Empire State Building was lit up pink, white, and blue in honor of MAMMA MIA! and at the performance New York’s Mayor Bloomberg presented Judy with an official proclamation marking the occasion and declared 18 October 2011 ‘MAMMA MIA! Day.’MAMMA MIA! Broadway also became the 10th longest running show in Broadway history, surpassing the record previously held by Miss Saigon.

MAIN CAST

The world-class cast of Mamma Mia premiered their English-language International Tour in Dublin in 2004 and are now currently past their 2000th performance, which was performed in Zurich, Switzerland last 2 November. Included in the Manila Season are Sara Poyzer, Sophie Sheridan, Rosie Heath, and Tasha Taylor Thompson.

Actress Sara Poyzer plays Donna Sheridan, the mother of Sophie Sheridan, played by Charlotte Wakefield. Poyzer has performed in hit shows like Othello, Billy Elliot – The Musical, and Merchant of Venice. Wakefield made her West End debut starring in Spring Awakening and also nominated for Best Actress In A Musical at the 2010 Laurence Olivier awards.

Rosie Heath and Tasha Taylor Thompson plays Ali and Lisa, Sophie’s best friends who help her find her father. Heath trained in Musical Theater and Dance from Master Performing Arts College and has performed in Aladdin, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Whistle Down the Wind, and Les Misérables. Thompson trained in National Youth Music Theatre; and Marilyn Baker School of Dance, Doncaster. She has also performed in Starlight Express, Sylvia in Howard Goodall’sThe Dreaming, and is the captain in Call Me Madam; Frank, Dean and Sammy – Live in Las Vegas.

The International Cast has enthralled audiences in Dubai, Germany, Sweden, Prague, New Zealand, Turkey, China, and Tapei. In the UK, MAMMA MIA! International Tour became the highest grossing musical the New Castle Metro Radio Arena has ever hosted and has sold over £1 million worth of tickets in the first fortnight at the Bristol Hypodrome. To date, over 4 million people all over the world have now seen the tour and have fallen in love with MAMMA MIA!

ABBA MUSIC

The musical hasbecome a global entertainment phenomenon; but it is one that works on a far more elemental basis in which its creators have never lost sight of what they are seeking to achieve. MAMMA MIA!personalizes ABBA songs in a fresh, vital, and immediate way that simultaneously retains their pop integrity yet also does something more that is an essential requirement of good musical theatre: to advance an appealing story and comment on it.

MAMMA MIA!has not only seen theatergoersdancing in the aisles – reliving memories or discovering the ABBA sound for the first time – but has also seen ABBA GOLD back in album charts everywhere the show has played.

A legacy of extraordinary songs and worldwide record sales of over 360 million have ensured ABBA a lasting popularity. ABBA GOLD, first released in 1992, spent 206 weeks in the album charts, where it debuted at number one. It was re-issued in 1999 to commemorate ABBA’s 25^th anniversary and remains one of the biggest selling music albums of all-time.

With at least 3,500 records still being sold every day around the world, the ABBA phenomenon is seemingly unstoppable.

The production features 22 Of Abba’s Hits Including: Chiquitita, Dancing Queen, I Have A Dream, Knowing Me, Knowing You, The Winner Takes It All, Super Trouper, Take A Chance On Me and Voulez-Vous.

HISTORY

MAMMA MIA! premiered on April 1999 at the prestigious Prince Edward Theater in London’s West End. The audience was charmed and one British critic even said “MAMMA MIA! could put Prozac out of business!”

Since October 2003 MAMMA MIA!has opened fourteen non-English language productions in Tokyo, Seoul, Madrid, Stockholm, Moscow, Barcelona, Berlin, Mexico, Milan, Paris, Brazil, Copenhagen, and China, Dutch, and Spanish tours. The musical has risen to the challenge of translating both Catherine Johnson’s heart-warming story of a mother and daughter and Björn’s legendary lyrics. MAMMA MIA! plays to 17,000 people a night around the world and has been seen by over 50 million people.

With music & lyrics by Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus, MAMMA MIA! is written by Catherine Johnson, directed by Phyllida Lloyd and choreographed by Anthony Van Laast. The production is designed by Mark Thompson, with lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Andrew Bruce & Bobby Aitken and musical supervision, additional material & arrangements by Martin Koch.

The International Tour is produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East and Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal, Stage Entertainment and NGM.

Visit the MAMMA MIA! website for more information at: www.mamma-mia.com or the Manila Season Facebook Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/MammaMiaManila

TICKETING INFORMATION

Weekday rates are priced at P750, P1500, P3000, P4000, P5000, and P6000; including shows on Sundays, 8pm. Weekend matinee rates are P1000, P2000, P3500, P5000, P6000, and P7000.

Family Package: Groups of 20 or more can also get a 10% discount. Senior citizens also enjoy a 20% off. For special promos, log onto www.ticketworld.com.ph or call Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Book your tickets now!

SPONSORS

MAMMA MIA! is presented by Infinity, powered by Smart and Citibank. Special thanks to our major sponsors Cebu Pacific Air, San Miguel Premium All Malt Beer, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Dusit Thani Manila, Ayala Cinemas, Ayala Malls and OOCL.

MAMMA MIA! media partners’ ABS-CBN, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business World, Philippine Star, and Manila Bulletin, ETC, 2^nd Avenue, Jack TV, Crossover 105.1 FM, Monster Radio RX 93.1, and Radio High 105.9FM. MAMMA MIA! is brought to you by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, David Atkins Enterprises, Hi Definition Radio and Concertus Manila.

When In Manila, and into the whole KPOP thing, then you need to check this out!

The event is called KPOP Nation 2011, and we’re celebrating this year with much more especially to those who are new to KPOP.

The event will happen is this December 28, 2011 at SM Megamall Megatrade Halls 2 & 3