Carla-Tom chemistry thrills fans in L.A.

CEBU, Philippines - Laughter, excitement and pure entertainment filled the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center as scores of loyal Kapuso fans trooped to GMA Pinoy TV’s successful sold-out concert, “Kapusong Pinoy sa L.A.” last September 27.

Featuring one of the hottest love teams on TV– Carla Abellana and Tom Rodriguez, the show was an exciting experience from beginning to end as the audience was treated to exhilarating performances and entertaining segments from their favorite GMA stars.

Carla and Tom, who were first paired in the internationally-acclaimed series “My Husband’s Lover,” exuded undeniable chemistry as they serenaded the crowd. Attesting to the popularity of their onscreen pairing currently seen in the romantic-drama “My Destiny,” their fans eagerly cheered on the pair all throughout their production number. They did not disappoint their fans as they performed thrilling duets and engaged in endearing banter.

“We had a great time performing in L.A.,” says Carla. “The crowd was very appreciative and it was nice to be able to put up a good show and bring a piece of home to our fellow Filipinos in the US.”

It was also a homecoming of sorts for Tom as he was reunited with his family who came all the way from Arizona to support the Kapuso leading man. “Performing in this show was heartwarming for me because, not only was I able to share the experience with our kababayans abroad, I was also able to share it with my family,” he expresses.

Tom also gave the crowd a preview of his newest game show on GMA, “Don’t Lose The Money,” in a segment where two couples were called to participate in the game.

Carla and Tom were also joined on stage by some of GMA’s most versatile performers. Actor-comedian Betong Sumaya portrayed his popular character Antonietta from the country’s longest running comedy show “Bubble Gang.” Betong elicited endless laughter from the audience with his comedic segment. Like Tom, Betong was also able to meet with family members whom he had not seen in a long time.

“Nakakataba ng puso ang mainit na pagtanggap sa amin dito sa L.A.,” says Betong. “Unang pagkakataon kong makarating sa Amerika kaya hinalikan ko talaga ang lupa pagdating ko ng airport. Masaya rin kasi after the longest time, nagkita-kita kami ng mga kamag-anak namin sa L.A. so parang reunion na rin.”

The crowd was also amazed with Julie Anne San Jose’s powerful vocals which were showcased in her lively song and dance numbers. Julie Anne has been one of the most requested performers in GMA’s international shows.

Meanwhile, fast-rising teen star Miguel Tanfelix, who starred in GMA’s top-rating primetime series “Niño,” also impressed the crowd with his dancing skills. In his first visit to the United States, Miguel was overwhelmed with the support from their fans abroad.

The show culminated in a meet-and-greet with the Kapuso stars that had fans lining up for hours just to meet and take photos with their favorite artists. Following the hugely successful event, more Kapuso fans in different parts of the world have expressed their desire to see GMA’s artists perform in their own countries. (PR) (FREEMAN)