Singer-actor Gerald Santos is set to take the stage for his highly anticipated Courage concert on January 24 at the SM North EDSA Skydome.
The event is not only a celebration of his music career but also a personal testament to his resilience after overcoming past trauma.
Santos made headlines last August after revealing during a Senate hearing that he was a victim of sexual abuse by a prominent musical director when he was 15 years old. His revelation came as he stood in solidarity with fellow actor Zandro Muhlach, who also shared his experience of sexual misconduct.
Santos, who first gained fame after winning the second season of ‘Pinoy Pop Superstar’ in 2006, remained silent about his ordeal for nearly two decades. However, he used the challenges he faced as motivation to rebuild his life and career.
In 2016, Santos successfully auditioned for the role of Thuy in the international production of ‘Miss Saigon’. He joined the musical’s global tour from 2017 to 2019, performing in five countries across the United Kingdom and Europe.
“Actually, ‘yung naranasan ko, it was not a good experience, I would say na mula nu’ng mangyari ‘yun, it made me a strong person,” Santos said during the media conference on January 10 at Pandan Asian Cafe in Quezon CIty. “Kung ano ‘yung wisdom na meron ako ngayon through time na-develop ‘yung strength ko as a person hindi lang dahil sa nangyari kundi lahat ng pinagdaanan ko, nagsama-sama na accumulative, e, ‘yan lumabas na lang sa Hubad.”
Produced by EchoJham and Visionary, the ‘Courage’ concert will feature Santos performing new numbers, including his latest single Hubad, written by Feb Cabahug and released on January 10.
Many speculated that ‘Hubad’ (which translates to “bare” or “unveiled”) might symbolize Santos’ past experiences.
“Hindi naman parang destiny kasi nagkataon na nagbasa ako ng spam messages at doon ko nakita ‘yung alok ng composer and was willing to pay me just to sing her song,” Santos revealed. “Since nagandahan ako sa song sabi ko, you don’t need to pay me, let’s just collaborate dahil naniniwala ako sa kanta.”
When asked if the song was inspired by his personal journey, he explained, “Sa mga pinagdaanan ko, that made me who I am right now kung hindi dahil sa mga pinagdaanan ko ay hindi mangyayari kung sino ako ngayon. Kaya I’m thankful for that and I’m ready to face kung ano pa ang mga darating at mas matibay na ako as a person para sa mga pagsubok pang darating.”
Despite his past ordeal, Santos emphasized that he holds no ill feelings toward the LGBTQ+ community.
“I have nothing personal with the LGBTQ plus community and you know, ‘yung nangyari sa akin was isolated tapos itong person (nang-abuso) na ito, he didn’t represent the community really well,” Santos clarified. “So, it’s really the person, ‘yung kasalanan niya hindi naman kasalanan ng buong LGBTQ community, siya lang ‘yun, so, hindi dapat madamay ang buong community.”
Santos hinted that his performance will feature unique elements, including dance routines that will surprise his audience.
Special guest performers include Sheryn Regis along with other surprise appearances.
The ‘Courage’ concert also marks the launch of the Courage Movement, aimed at inspiring people to overcome adversity and find strength in their personal journeys.
Gerald Santos, the multi-talented Filipino singer and actor known for his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, is set to captivate audiences once again with his highly anticipated concert, “Courage.” This upcoming musical spectacle promises not only to showcase Gerald’s impressive range and versatility but also to offer a deeply personal and inspiring narrative of his journey through trials, perseverance, and triumph. The concert, scheduled to take place in an intimate setting, aims to connect with audiences on a profound level, sharing stories of resilience and hope through music.
Over the years, Gerald Santos has established himself as a formidable force in the Philippine entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his performances in various musical theater productions, television shows, and concerts. Known for his portrayal of the iconic role of Thuy in “Miss Saigon” both locally and internationally, Gerald has consistently demonstrated his ability to bring characters to life with authenticity and emotional depth. His journey, however, has not been without its challenges, and it is these experiences that form the backbone of the “Courage” concert.
The title “Courage” is emblematic of Gerald’s personal and professional journey, representing his unwavering determination to overcome obstacles and pursue his dreams despite the odds. Through a carefully curated selection of songs, Gerald will narrate his story, highlighting the moments of doubt, fear, and ultimately, triumph. The concert promises to be an emotional rollercoaster, inviting attendees to witness Gerald’s vulnerability and strength as he shares his most intimate experiences.
One of the highlights of the concert will be Gerald’s rendition of songs that have played a significant role in his life, each one symbolizing a different chapter of his journey. From the struggles of breaking into the entertainment industry to the personal battles he has faced, Gerald will bring these stories to life through his music, offering audiences a glimpse into the challenges that have shaped him. His choice of songs, ranging from classic Broadway hits to contemporary pop anthems, reflects the diversity of his influences and the breadth of his musical talent.
In addition to his solo performances, Gerald will be joined on stage by special guests who have played crucial roles in his career and personal life. These collaborations promise to add layers to the concert, providing different perspectives and narratives that enrich the overall story. The inclusion of fellow performers not only celebrates Gerald’s professional journey but also highlights the importance of support and solidarity in overcoming adversity.
The “Courage” concert is more than just a musical performance; it is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience. Gerald’s willingness to share his vulnerabilities and triumphs serves as a powerful reminder that everyone faces challenges, but it is how we respond to these trials that defines us. His message of hope and perseverance is particularly resonant in today’s world, where people from all walks of life grapple with uncertainty and adversity.
The choice of venue for the concert is deliberate, aiming to create an intimate and immersive experience for the audience. The setting will allow for a deeper connection between Gerald and his fans, fostering an atmosphere of shared empathy and understanding. This intimate setting will also enable attendees to fully engage with Gerald’s storytelling, making the concert a truly memorable and transformative experience.
Gerald Santos’ “Courage” concert is not just a celebration of his musical talent; it is a celebration of life, resilience, and the power of music to heal and inspire. Through his heartfelt performances and personal anecdotes, Gerald aims to leave a lasting impression on his audience, encouraging them to find their own courage and strength in the face of life’s challenges.
Tickets for the “Courage” concert are expected to be in high demand, as Gerald’s fans eagerly anticipate this unique and personal performance. The concert is more than just an evening of music; it is an opportunity for audiences to connect with Gerald on a deeper level, sharing in his journey and perhaps finding inspiration for their own lives.
As the date of the concert approaches, anticipation continues to build, with fans and music lovers alike eager to witness Gerald Santos’ powerful performance and be inspired by his story of resilience. “Courage” promises to be a landmark event in Gerald’s career, solidifying his reputation as not just an exceptional performer but also a compelling storyteller who uses his platform to uplift and inspire others.
In preparation for the concert, Gerald has been diligently rehearsing and refining his performances, ensuring that each song and story is delivered with authenticity and emotion. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to sharing his personal journey with his audience exemplify the courage that the concert’s title embodies.
As Gerald Santos takes the stage for “Courage,” he invites audiences to join him on a musical journey that transcends entertainment. Through his powerful performances and heartfelt storytelling, Gerald aims to inspire, uplift, and remind everyone that courage is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. This concert is a testament to the enduring power of music and the human spirit, promising to leave a lasting impact on all who attend.
