From Doubt to Wow: Our First SB19 Concert Experience in Singapore

ABBEY: I would consider myself a casual when it comes to SB19. For the longest time, I thought they were simply another group riding the K-Pop wave, much like how we’ve seen global sensations from Wonder Girls and Super Junior to Blackpink and BTS. But over time, SB19 has truly proven themselves to be more than just a passing trend.

Their music resonates with a wide audience, touching on themes that many listeners can relate to. They’ve also made their mark internationally, climbing the Billboard charts and even winning the Billboard Fan Army Face-Off against Selena Gomez’s fanbase. That’s no small feat!

Last August 24, Singapore had the honor of being one of the stops for SB19’s Simula at Wakas World Tour. The concert was held at The Arena @ Expo, drawing a sold-out crowd of around 7,000 fans. Excitement was in the air hours before the show, with fans arriving as early as 1:30 PM for the 5 PM performance. From the sound check to the fun videoke sing-along sessions, the energy only kept building.

When the lights finally dimmed, the crowd erupted in screams. SB19 opened the show with powerful performances of “Dungka!” and “Gento”, instantly setting the stage on fire. Their fanbase, lovingly called A’TIN, sang and danced along, creating an electric atmosphere.

One of the highlights was when the members stepped down from the stage to interact with the crowd. Fans eagerly gathered around to snap photos, capture videos, and simply get a little closer to their idols. I couldn’t resist joining in myself. It was a rare chance to experience SB19 up close!

From the production setup, complete with world-class sound, lights, and crowd management, to the group’s incredible stage presence, the concert was nothing short of spectacular. SB19 has truly cemented their place as global performers, and their Singapore leg proved that they’re not just representing Filipino talent, but taking it to the world stage.

SB19 live concert at Singapore Expo – full crowd energy

WILL: 

Will: Oh! Darating pala sila dito? Sino nga sila?

Abbey: Sila ‘yung Gento.
Will: Oh okay. Gusto mo manood?
Abbey: No.

That was June 28 when we first noticed the SB19 concert advertisement at Singapore Expo—habang papunta kami sa Iskina Cebu.

Fast forward to August 20, we received an invite from Makan Titos to promote and watch the concert. Honestly? We were not fans. I even found them a bit “corny” kasi I couldn’t understand their songs before. But we still said yes. Why? Because of Bayanihan spirit. Even without free tickets, we were ready to post on social media, message friends one by one, and even assist with ticket inquiries—just to support our fellow kababayan.

Before the concert, I started listening to their songs daily—just so I wouldn’t look like a kill joy. Haha!
• MAPA – I was literally holding back tears while walking to work.
• TIME – hit me in the gut with its truth.
• DAM – nakarelate kami ni Abbey, kasi we’re always looking forward sa next adventure. Yes… Walang Hanggang Hagdan. Haha.

After a few days, I realized—grabe, ang galing nila magsulat. At pati mga tunes? Catchy at hindi paulit-ulit. 

When we arrived at Singapore Expo, shocks! The queue was so long it snaked outside the venue. Imagine thousands of Filipinos in one place—ang saya! This was one of the few concerts I’ve seen that actually sold out. Hindi siya pa-hype lang. It was real.

Inside? The crowd was next level. Fanatics talaga. Hindi pa naguumpisa ang concert, pero ang energy nag-ooverflow na. Para kang nasa K-Pop concert—but this time, it’s P-Pop at its best.

And SB19? Wow. International level performance. Walang dull moment. Every beat, every song—sobrang engaging sila. I felt like I was transported into a world-class arena filled with energy. Napasayaw pa nila kami. Imagine that! 😂

After the show, I couldn’t stop smiling. I thought to myself: This is it. SB19 is the bridge that connects Filipino music to the world. They are proof that we can make waves internationally.

Hindi na ito hype lang. SB19 is real talent. 

SB19 is Filipino pride.

***

DLM EVENTIVE SINGAPORE

(W) https://www.ourdlm.com/

(A) 304 Orchard Rd #04- 69 Lucky Plaza

(T) +65 8923 9304

Our Experience Watching The Lord of the Rings Musical in Singapore

ABBEY: When Wilma spotted an online ad for The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale, she immediately asked if we could watch it. Of course, I said yes! And lucky for us, we managed to get discounted tickets in celebration of Singapore’s 60th birthday. It is definitely a great deal compared to paying the full price.

I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. I didn’t know if they will cover the whole narrative of the novel or even how long it would be. But to my surprise, the production covered the entire journey from the formation of the Fellowship all the way to Mount Doom. All that epic storytelling was compressed into a three-hour performance which has the same length as one of the trilogy films!

The show began even before the curtain rose. As guests were settling into their seats, Bilbo himself wandered around and casually interacted with the audience. When he passed by, I even greeted him with a “Happy Birthday!”—a nod to the first scene set at Bilbo’s birthday party. Other hobbits joined in the fun, playing little games with the crowd, which made the atmosphere lighthearted and immersive.

Like many fans, I couldn’t help but wonder how the stage production would recreate those legendary scenes we know so well from the movies. But I was blown away! From the intense battle in the Mines of Moria between Gandalf and the Balrog to Gollum’s chilling first appearance and eventual fall into the fiery depths of Mount Doom. It is nothing short of spectacular.

What makes this musical truly impressive is that everything unfolds live on stage, without any green screen magic. Seeing these iconic moments brought to life right in front of your eyes is an experience every Lord of the Rings fan should witness.

$60 ticket experience watching The Lord of the Rings Musical live in Singapore.

WILL: Have you ever wondered what the difference is between an opera, a play, and a musical? According to Google’s AI, the main difference lies in the performance style:
-- Plays: consist entirely of spoken dialogue
-- Operas: are sung-through dramas with no spoken dialogue
-- Musicals: combine spoken dialogue with songs.

That clears up the confusion, right? And speaking of musicals, let’s talk about the latest one that has arrived in Singapore: The Lord of the Rings Musical. When we saw tickets go on sale for just SGD 60, we immediately grabbed the chance to watch the next day. After all, it’s not every day that you get to experience J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary story in a live musical format The show felt like a feast for the senses. It opened with Bilbo Baggins’ 111th birthday, instantly pulling the audience into the world of Middle-earth.

But here’s what really stood out for me: 
1. The actors and musicians came out to the audience even before the show began, greeting us, asking about our day, and encouraging us to join fun mini-games

2. Performers didn’t just stay on stage — they appeared from the aisles and corners, making the whole theatre feel alive

3. The musicians were everywhere, not just in a pit, which was refreshing. Though I couldn’t help but think this was also a creative way to fill up the stage, since the set design felt a little lacking

4. The costume design leaned heavily on Indian-inspired aesthetics, which makes sense since the production was influenced by A.R. Rahman.

If you’re looking for a fast-forward version of The Lord of the Rings story, this musical will give you exactly that. It’s entertaining, interactive, and unique in its presentation.

However, if you’re a die-hard fan expecting every detail and grandeur from the books or movies, you might find it a bit underwhelming. The only real “wow” moments for me were Gollum’s voice and appearance.

***

Marina Bay Sands' Shows and Concerts

(W) https://www.marinabaysands.com/entertainment/shows.html

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!

High Notes and Heartfelt Memories: A Night with Asia’s Songbird

ABBEY: When Regine Velasquez announces a concert, there’s only one thing to do: buy those tickets! We recently attended her “The Best of Times” performance, and it was nothing short of spectacular. While I’m not big on meet-and-greets, sitting just a few rows from the stage was perfect for enjoying the show up close.

Some might say Regine is past her prime, but this performance proved otherwise. She showcased incredible versatility, seamlessly moving between her beloved classics and powerful new renditions. Regine knows exactly how to keep her audience engaged, belting out hit after hit with those legendary high notes. Favorites like Dadalhin, Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka, Pangarap Ko ang Ibigin Ka, and Kailangan Ko’y Ikaw filled the venue, reminding everyone of her iconic range and emotion.

One special highlight was her heartfelt Elvis Presley medley, including Love Me Tender and Can’t Help Falling in Love. It was a beautiful way for her to share pieces of her journey through the songs that defined her career. And as a fitting finale, she brought the house down with renditions of Huling El Bimbo and Huwag Mo Nang Itanong.

Regine Velasquez truly is in a masterclass of her own.

High Notes and Heartfelt Memories A Night with Asia’s Songbird

WILL: Lately, I’ve been more of a "please, let me stay home and rekindle my love affair with sleep" kind of person. So when I first saw the Facebook ad for Regine Velasquez’s concert, I didn’t feel the usual excitement. It just didn’t fit into my cozy weekend plans. But Abbey, who’s been wanting to see a Filipino artist live, bought us tickets anyway—even though my answer to “Nood tayo?” was just a casual “Ok lang.”

Then, the night of the concert arrived, and from the moment Regine stepped on stage, old memories started to come alive. I was taken back to my high school days when she was my fashion inspiration. I remembered copying her hairstyles, wearing clogs, layering chokers, and even putting a little sparkle on my forehead just like she did. Regine wasn’t just a singer to me back then—she was a style icon.

And then she sang. Regine’s voice was powerful, clear, and rich, and she hit those high notes with such ease—it was like no time had passed at all. I was amazed! She reminded everyone why she’s known as Asia’s Songbird, her voice soaring over the crowd, touching each heart. Song after song, I felt like I was on a journey through my own past. Her music brought back memories and moments that had been part of my life. 

Thank you, Abbey, for this special experience. And thank you, Regine, for coming to Singapore. Your songs are forever part of my story.

GVMax with Dolby ATMOS Surround Sound Technology at GV VivoCity

ABBEY: I’m excited to watch the Eternals since I saw it’s trailer. New batch of heroes and characters. A group of ten is overwhelmingly specially in the first minutes of the movie; you need to catch up who is who. The story is somewhat a so-so and some of the acting is not that great. 

Good thing we watched in Golden Village GVMax Dolby with Atmos. It somehow saved the movie with the superb sound and screen. The whispers and the intense actions can be heard crisply. But I bet it would have been better if the movie complemented the tech as well. Haha. 

Let’s see in the future if Eternals will redeem themselves.

GVMax with Dolby ATMOS Surround Sound Technology at GV VivoCity

WILL: You keep on going for an average cinema or you already splurge on a movie with a la-z-boy seat, quilt and a meal? Well, have you tried this kind of IMAX equipped with Atmos?

We experienced the IMAX ‘s large screen plus the spatial, realistic sound of Dolby Atmos at GVMax! For what movie? Eternals!

Well, I know, this is one of the most boring movie you have watched this 2021 but I’ll tell you, that fight scenes a large screen plus this sound technology somewhat make a difference. Maybe, at least it won’t make you fell asleep. Haha!

Check out the GVMax located at VivoCity for your next movie escapades. Oh yeah! How’s the seat? Comfortable and the cinema is as usual freezing cold so don’t forget to wear your jackets!

***

GVMax with Dolby ATMOS Surround Sound Technology at GV VivoCity

(W) https://www.gv.com.sg/GVCinemaDetailsBranding#/cinema/051

(A) #02-30 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, VivoCity,

(T) 6653 8100

Spiderman on IMAX with LASER at Jewel Changi Airport

ABBEY: The wait is over as the Spiderman : No Way Home was shown in the big screen. For us it is literally a big screen as we watched it in iMax with laser. 

I can say that it’s worth it. It’s as if you’re in the room with the characters. Top it up with great sound and you can really feel the action. The picture is crystal clear and sharp. Now into the movie, Marvel did an awesome storytelling . The loose ends are tied up (paying homage to Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield) and other branches are getting lined up (Yes, I guess the X-Men are coming). 

It’s the edge-of-your-seat kind of thing; funny, heartbreaking, tearjerking, as well as promising. The Pinoy in me is really proud, thank you Ned’s lola.

 IMAX with LASER at Jewel Changi Airport

WILL: After watching Venom and Eternals, the excitement to watch Spider-Man: No Way Home plunged. The fun thing for me and Abbey is, he doesn’t like what I love and vice versa. Haha! And yes! I am not fond of Spidey! 

Anyways, as a good wife, I booked his requested cinema hall…IMAX with Laser! This kind of technology was only offered by Shaw Theatres on their Jewel and Paya Lebar Quarter. So, we booked at Jewel on a 9am. Yes! Morning. So our eyes are from a good rest and we can see the difference.

Is there a difference? Absolutely! OMG! It seems that you are inside the movie peeking on what’s happening! The seat? Well, Shaw as always gives an ample leg space and aircon is not that cold as others.

This kind of IMAX is truly remarkable and “A MUST” to book for your next favourite movie!

***

Shaw Theatres IMAX with LASER

(W) https://www.shaw.sg/lumiere

(A) 78, Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, #B2-237, Singapore 819666

Wonder Woman 1984 - Singapore iMax

ABBEY: I was excited waking up on Christmas Day. This is the day with Gal Gadot via WW1984. To be honest I’m not an avid fan of Wonder Woman and doesn’t know the story in depth. For me it is just like another kid’s superhero movie: small guy became big guy then goes bad but hero saves the day and ending. 

But the scene where Gal used the Lasso of Truth to communicate to people is really touching. As they say the truth shall prevail. Gal (Wonder Woman) is beautiful whenever she laughs, smile, sarcastic or even cries. Spoiler Alert: Wait for the OG Wonder Woman at the end.

Wonder Woman 1984 - Singapore iMax

WILL: Abbey’s all time crush. This will be our first and last movie screening for year 2020. Ohh. COVID! Haha. So Wonder Woman is not from planet Earth, ahhmmm am I correct? Haha! She is powerful woman that can swing by the clouds and lightning. 

Ohh, sorry but it is so childish. As usual, Wonder Woman 1984 is catered for DC fans. I am Marvel. So what can you expect? I can’t fathom the storyline. Well, whatever. It is feel good movie but not my cup of tea.

***

SHAW Theatres Lido

(W) https://www.shaw.sg/IMAX

(A) 350 Orchard Rd, House, 5th/6th floor Shaw, Singapore 238868

(T) 6235 2077

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil - Shaw Jewel

ABBEY: Just when you think you know all about Maleficent, well, well, there’s so much more to know about. As with the trailer she’s not the only one of her kind. They were in hiding. 

The movie is another story of revenge but still the heroes will save the day. Respect each others culture, and boundaries and you will live a good harmonious life.

WILL: One of my fave actress is Angelina Jolie and somewhat I hate it when they changed the plot of Sleeping Beauty. Totally twisted argh! 

Now, the Maleficent 2 - Mistress of Evil gave a good comeback. This time it really proves that mothers knows best for her child. That mothers only want the best for their child.

If there will be another sequel of Maleficent, on my opinion, it is totally a drag. Well, let’s see. Maybe Angelina have something up on her sleeves. 

***

Shaw Theatres Jewel 

(W) https://www.shaw.sg

(A) 78, Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, #B2-237, Singapore 819666

Spider-Man: Far From Home - GV Suntec City

ABBEY: No plans watching Spider-Man in the silverscreen but since it’s my weekoff I told Wilma to purchase tickets on Golden Village Suntec.

Spider-Man: Far from Home is post-Ironman time. And Peter Parker is having this burden (become Tony’s replacement) on his shoulders. He became too comfortable being the friendly neighbor in his city. The story has its happy ending and Spider-Man saves the day. Gone is the time where superheroes’ identities are secret (stay for the end credit scene). Would romance blossom between Aunt Mae and Happy? Why Nick Furry didn’t even bother to check the background of Mysterio? Surely no one can replace Tony: “Even Dead I’m The Hero.”

 Spider-Man: Far From Home

WILL: Abbey told me that he wants to watch Spider-Man. I tried to persuade him not to but he insisted. Can you blame me if I became fed up when the they released many versions and storyline of Spider-Man? 

This  Spider-Man: Far From Home is all about his high school life going to another country but suddenly came up with a mission. Spidey entrusted a technology to a man. Well, he didn’t used that Spidey-Tingly that time. 

Anyways, the movie is okay. 6/10. I am waiting what will be the next for MCU! Surprise us! 

***

Golden Village VivoCity

(W) https://www.gv.com.sg

(A)3 Temasek Boulevard #03-373 Suntec City Mall Singapore 038983

Men in Black: International

ABBEY: Another installation of Men In Black hit the theaters. And this time a new tandem was formed: Agent H (Chris Hemsworth) and Agent M (Tessa Thompson). I think I’ve seen these two before :)

Now MIB aspirants knew how you can were those black suits and join them; make sure to be top of the class, have an alien monitor-scanner and a lone soul. Chris somehow acts as if he’s Thor (wait for the scene with the hammer). It’s the usual story of agent getting corrupted while maintaining a good image. 

By the way the neuralyzer doesn’t come with the suit, it must be earned. I also want to have a loyal soldier like Pawny.

Men in Black: International
Shaw Theatres Lumiere

WILL: 2019 is “The Year”. 

Many movies to watch at silverscreen and one of those is Men In Black International. This is the movie that made me curious about life outside Earth; how vast the outer space and reasons goes on. 

After decades, MIB came back with one of my favourite actor, THOR! Hehe. He is cool, just fits to be a MIB. Well, this sequel is not just awesome like its first movies but it’s a feel-good one. 

I do hope that someday, Will Smith and Chris Hemsworth will be in a MIB movie. 

***

Shaw Theatres Lumiere

(W) https://www.shaw.sg/lumiere

(A) 78, Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, #B2-237, Singapore 819666

Aladdin 2019 | Disney Movie

ABBEY: There are “not-too-good” reviews about Disney’s new version of Aladdin. Same story definitely but had twists of course. Yes with an “s”; like how the wittiness of Aladdin asking Genie’s help to go out of the Cave of Wonders. Also how the first scene became like that :)

Princess Jasmine looks more beautiful as the movie progress. As expected, Will Smith delivered on his own way. No one can fill the shoes of the original Genie. Abu, Rajah, Iago, and Magic Carpet have their own funny moments. Jafar lacks a little bit of fierceness though.

Aim to achieve greater heights but watch yourself not to be greedy. And stay honest.

Aladdin 2019 | Disney Movie
EagleWings Cinematics

WILL: Do you have favourite cartoons/movies that you always watch over and over again? I have a few! And one of them is Aladdin. 

As I’ve said, I am not fan of love stories but Aladdin the movie gives a twist that makes me happy on it’s ending. What it is? That Jasmine became the Sultan. The position she is looking up to was awarded to her in the end. I like Will Smith’s spin-off of Arabian Nights and the Speechless song added to the list. 

Never fail to mesmerize me, Aladdin! Is Jafar returning? Hmmm?? 

***

EagleWings Cinematics 

(W) https://www.eaglewingscinematics.com.sg

(A) 9 King Albert Park, #01-58, Cinema Box Office Atrium, KAP Residences Mall,

Singapore - 598332

(T) 9848 7777

Avengers: Endgame

ABBEY: By this time all the spoilers were already out. We watched Avengers:Endgame in IMAX 3D and it was superb. 

I rooted for the Avengers to triumph over Thanos and they did but without casualties like Mr. Tony Stark for one. He was the one who wants to move on after he got the chance to come back to Earth. Maybe he had the “itch” after Antman’s pitch of time machine. Also I don’t know why after all the strength that Captain Marvel showed she got so weak just from a throw from Thanos. Where have all the power gone? 

Both Ironman and Black Widow wanted the event to be reversed and both of them didn’t see the fruits of their labor. At last Captain America got to marry the girl of his dreams. I thought he liked Bucky more than her. Haha. 

Maybe the lesson is don’t mess with time and just move on.

Avengers: Endgame

WILL: I did not like the fact that the EndGame story resorted to a time machine? What the! 

Time machine or going back to history to amend something really pisses me off. I am not sure if I expect too much or what. And the worst thing my favourite IronMan died!! Grrrr!

Worth watching? Yes! For the sake of closure of the series. 

***

Shaw Theatre Waterway Point

(W) www.shaw.sg

(A) B2-11, Waterway Point, 83 Punggol Central, 828761

(T) 6738 0555

Captain Marvel (2019)

ABBEY: Captain Marvel is the movie we watched when we used the pair of tickets given to us by my boss.

Spoiler Alert! The story tells how did Nick Fury got the pager and how it can contact Captain Marvel. You’ll be in the know why Mr. Fury wears a patch too. A recently-joined Agent Coulson is also in the movie.

There will be lots of funny moments as well; how can Captain Marvel hit an old lady, how can a cat fight the villains, Skrull’s “shoving up in the where?” moment, and a Kree who is laughing in the inside.

Overall the movie was great. It indeed increased my anticipation to Avengers:Endgame.

By the way wait for the horror-movie-scene in the mid-credits.

Captain Marvel (2019)
Golden Village VivoCity

WILL: I am not into super heroines, but Captain Marvel is a pre-requisite before watching the End Game of The Avengers. 

First of all thank you Boss Ela for the free tickets!

On trailers, I thought Captain Marvel is another super being from the another planet, but she is not. I immediately sensed that Yon-Rogg is the bad guy. Haha. 

Nothing so much to anticipate. See you again Captain Marvel on April. 

***

Golden Village VivoCity

(W) https://www.gv.com.sg

(A)1 Harbourfront Walk #02-30 VivoCity

Aquaman Movie 2018

ABBEY: No plans to watch Aquaman in big screen but changed in the last minute. I never seen Aquaman showed in this type of action-hero movie. It was spectacular. For me Aquaman is just the blonde guy under the water and is of no help in land. But this movie showed who he really is and how much power he has. 

The story line is typical "Game of Thrones" but the characters are good. And I just realized that Agent Romanov was also there in the movie disguised as Poison Ivy. Seriously they have resemblance to Mera.

Aquaman Movie 2018

WILL: Comic book hereos are filling in our movie escapade for 2018. So why not line-up Aquaman? 

The actor got famous on his Game of Thrones series, Jason Momoa and now he is the half-man, half-god Aquaman! 

How’s the movie? This is the DC movie that I enjoyed so far. 🤣 The storyline is fine tuned, no boring scenes and the effects are quite good. 

Kudos to Aquaman Movie! Anddddd, it wraps up our movie this 2018! 

***

Shaw Theatre Waterway Point

(W) www.shaw.sg

(A) B2-11, Waterway Point, 83 Punggol Central, 828761

(T) 6738 0555