Essence of Christmas

For the past two weeks, I have been utterly busy preparing for the presentation to represent our unit - Salmiya. Although we only had 3 days to do everything from brainstorming for a good concept, creating dance steps and getting people to participate with us -- everything facilely fit into place as the event draws near.
The event was jam packed with creative juices, showcasing different talents from acting, singing and dancing. Our performance turned out a success with a spice of comedic act when we did our version of the Grinch's story but what amazed me most was seeing the release of SFC Kuwait's station ID were I, luckily, became part of. (NOTE: Since Blogger can't seem to upload the video, I'm putting the link here: Christmas Is About Love Video)

Then, after only a few days when I thought it's high time for a vacation from the community, came another colorful event that I thought I definitely wouldn't miss for the world, even though I'm currently attacked by the flu monster -- the Pasko sa Embassy 2011 organized by SFC Kuwait's Social Ministry aims to share the spirit of giving to the hundreds (250+ to say the least) of female distressed OFWs staying in the Philippine Embassy to feel that they're not forgotten. The basement of POLO office were filled with different faces of Pinays who have different stories to tell. But for a short while, when the affair began, all you could see were happy faces filled with glee and laughter that would remind you that Christmas is really here.

Although it's unfortunately sad to think that this would be the very first Christmas that I'm away from my family and friends back home, I somehow came to realize that what's more important is not the presence nor the material things but how we understand the true meaning of Christmas through the celebration of the spirit of love, joy and sharing.

Awitawanan sa Kuwait 2011

It was amazing how for the past four months, two wonderful shows was brought to Kuwait showcasing great Filipino talents! This may have been due to the enormous support the Filipinos here showed during the FIFA Qualifying games last July or that somehow the entertainment producers back home thought Kuwait is a new ground for International shows. Whatever the reason maybe, the fact that local Filipino artists consider this country now as a good place to put on a show, amidst certain restrictions, is such an awesome breath of fresh air.

Awitawanan sa Kuwait 2011 was made possible by Western Union and Zain in cooperation with Vio Drinking Water, Red Bull and Dunkin Donut. The event was organized for Western Union's loyal customers wherein a single admission ticket is worth 2 remittance transaction receipts which was held at the Arraya Ballroom of the Marriott Courtyard at Sharq. It lasted for almost 3 hours - with awesome performances by lady comedienne Giselle Sanchez, new prince of R&B Kris Lawrence and the main event performer, comedian Allan K.

Tickets! Thanks again Tita Julie

Inside the Arraya Ballroom

Sponsors. No I'm not advertising them but I couldn't be more happy to see when I saw Jollibee's banner! Yes it's true.....Jollibee will be opening its very first store here (again) by the 1st week of December of this year! YAY!

Sissy Sisters? They did the intro act, lucky for them. I forgot their name but they're okay.

Giselle Sanchez with a couple of local Pinoy back up dancers.

Donning one of her outrageous comedy acts with a Pinoy expat participant.

"A Star in a Million Season 2" contender Kris Lawrence swooning the audience with Bruno Mar's hit "Billionaire". Never thought he was that good on stage!

Singing his famous OPM hit - "Kung Malaya Lang Ako". Does the telerserye "Sa Piling Mo" ring a bell? It's a Juday-Piolo tandem. Unfortunately I haven't seen that show but the song was rather familiar, must the FM radios playing it.

Eat Bulaga's one and only - Allan K!

Rendering a soulful ballad for the audience

Obviously donning his famous act -- COMEDY!

The show was awesomely done, having a great combination of two cool comedians and one soulful singer. I hope Allan K would do more shows here in the future. Will definitely be watching out for that! :)