JUST A THOUGHT: “It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” – J.K. Rowling
* * *
UNLIKELY TANDEM: One is a crooner specializing in jazz and standards. The other is a romantic-comedy actor, considered a late bloomer in the field, nonetheless a star in his own right.
They meet and match in a one-night only concert called “Richard x Richard: The Chinito Crooners: A Salute to Classic Love Songs.”
Richard Poon and Richard Yap both descend from Chinese roots, share the same first name, and a common love for pop classics.
The latter is bringing them together in one stage on Friday, Aug. 26, 8 p.m. at The Theater at Solaire.
* * *
RICHARD YAP THE SINGER: Those who are wondering what actor Richard Yap is doing in a concert with Poon, it may help to learn that Yap was a member of his high school glee club and a pop-rock band in college.
Best known for his star turns in teleseryes “My Binondo Girl” and “Be Careful with My Heart,” Yap went on to clinch box-office success in 2016 with Star Cinema’s “The Achy Breaky Hearts,” which reportedly earned over P100 million.
A gig during a mall show for one of his TV shows led to his discovery as a recording artist.
Among the songs featured in Yap’s forthcoming debut album are pop ballads like “Don’t Know What to Say (Don’t Know What to Do” and “You Take My Breath Away.”
* * *
POON THE SINGING COOK: Poon, on the other hand, was formerly a cook at his family’s restaurant in Ermita. His love for singing saw him rising as the country’s foremost Big Band Crooner.
Poon has released three studio albums and a greatest-hits compilation. His latest effort, The Crooner Sings Bacharach, features Burt Bacharach’s romantic compositions.
Caress Caballero of Cornerstone Entertainment promises an evening of romantic entertainment from the two gentlemen.
Chinito’s repertoire is built around sweet serenade songs from Bacharach to Sinatra.
“Richard x Richard” is produced by Cornerstone Concerts and Star Events in cooperation with Solaire Resort and Casino. (With major sponsor Flanax and Bench as minor sponsor). (NESTOR CUARTERO)