Lea Salonga

The season for “Cats Now and Forever” in Manila has been extended up to Aug. 15, 2010. This was announced recently by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, David Atkins Enterprises and Concertues which is producing the musical in association with The Really Useful Company Asia Pacific.This highly-anticipated musical, featuring an international cast led by our national treasure Lea Salonga, will be staged at CCP Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo starting on July 24.

“Cats,” one of the best-known and best-loved musicals the world has ever known, has been acclaimed worldwide by over 65 million people. With a score composed by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber – including the poignant hit song Memory – an imaginative set, inspired choreography and stunning costumes, “Cats” is a brilliant song and dance spectacular not to be missed.

The original production of “Cats,” produced by Cameron Mackintosh and Lloyd Webber’s The Really Useful Group and directed by the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company Director, Trevor Nunn, burst onto the London stage on May 11, 1981 to rave reviews and went on to win a record-breaking number of awards worldwide, including two Olivier Awards for “Musical of the Year” and “Outstanding Achievement of the Year in Musicals” and seven Tony Awards.

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About the musical

“Cats” boasts an international entourage of 54 people including cast, crew and a live band which plays offstage throughout the two and a half hour performance.

A unique and inspirational musical, “Cats” is based on the book of poems Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, written by T. S. Eliot and first published in 1939. With a little adaptation, Andrew Lloyd Webber used Eliot’s poems as lyrics and set them to music to create the musical. The inclusion of elements from Eliot’s other unpublished writings brought to life the glamour cat Grizabella, who provided the pivotal storyline for the musical. Lea Salonga will play Grizabella.

‘Cats’ July 23 show for Asian Hospital

Asian Hospital Charities, the charity arm of the Asian Hospital and Medical Center, presents the first night of “Cats” on July 23, where all proceeds of the show will go for the medical and surgical needs of its indigent patients.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that fans of the musical ‘Cats’ should not miss as they get to help those patients who are in dire need,” said Dr. Josephine Tuason, director of the Asian Hospital Charities.

With the special block buy, Asian Hospital Charities hope to raise funds for the benefit of its patients.

The aim of the charitable institution is to help select underprivileged patients to attain specialized healthcare not usually available in government hospitals. Facilitating the procedures are Asian Hospital’s very own surgical experts led by top cardiologist Dr. Jorge Garcia, who perform the procedures free of charge.

You can buy your tickets at Asian Hospital.

‘Cats’ promo

By the way, you can get great seats for two to this magical Broadway experience for FREE courtesy of Citibank. Simply open an account or get an approved loan with Citi.

For more information, call Citibank log on to www.citibank.com.ph or visit any Citibank or Citibank Savings branch near you.

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‘Age doesn’t  matter’ – Gretchen

Proving that genuine public impact is the secret to real celebrity staying power, actress Gretchen Barretto is always on the limelight with her genuine gloss and undeniable glamour.

Now back with a TV drama on channel 2, Gretchen is also an in-demand endorser for different brands promoting health, wellness and beauty. No doubt, she thinks age doesn’t matter.

Unlike other people, Gretchen welcomes her real age as naturally as breathing. This woman definitely knows how to take care of her health and overall appearance. That is why through the years, Gretchen maintains her youthful look, natural zest and vigor to fulfill her significant roles as a celebrity and a mother.

Gretchen is also known to choose only the best for herself and her loved ones. For many years now, Gretchen only trusts Circulan to maintain vibrant skin.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings Monday, July 5, go to Janet Basco, Monica Aveo, US-based Cielito del Mundo, Toni Serrano-Parsons, Jaime Hidalgo, Djhoanna Garcia, Nomer Pabilona, Norma Francia, Rita Canchela, JC Nigado, Marie Acosta, Donna Louise Poltan, Marcial S. Alix Jr., Lino Aromin, Loreto Uson delos Santos, US-based Dra. Grace Tercero, Perpetuo Silan of Queens Village, New York, Eagle Rigg, Eric Soriano, Amelia Pineda, and Atty. Michael Gurfinkel… Happy wedding anniversary to Eddie and Josie Seson…