The Library turns 26

MANILA, Philippines - The Library at Malate is the second home to top stand-up comedians/singers and to its regular patrons.

The comedy restobar celebrates its 26th anniversary starting this week until June 21 with the theme The Library Goes VERSUS: Grand Celebration with the Stars.

On June 21, the winners and title- holders among the current crop of stand-up performers compete with one another for the battle royale of the “best of the best” awards.

The Library itself turns into a red carpeted, glamorous occasion as it hands out a total of 15 most coveted top awards in recognition of the best like Entertainer of the Year, Show of the Year, Best New Artist, Best Single, Golden Voice Award, Best Group and Bagong Sibol Award.

Highlights of the annual event include the selection of Star of the Night, Hall of Fame, Golden Book Award, Rain or Shine Award to the most loyal customer, and Change Your Repertoire Award.

A posthumous Legacy Award will be bestowed on the family of the departed TV comedian Tomas Gonzales.

Time Magazine Asia has profiled The Library as one of the best entertainment venues to visit in Manila. Proprietor Andrew de Real envisioned it as haven for people with love for music, comedy, clean fun and enlightened activity where the crowd transcends labels. It is a place where opera and Broadway hits are performed and applauded with the same gusto as the Top 40s.

It has jumpstarted the career of celebrities like Ai-Ai delas Alas, Arnel Ignacio, Allan K,  John “Sweet” Lapus, Pooh, Teri Onor, Phillip Lazaro, Beverly Salviejo, Lenard Obal, May Bayot and Wally Bayola.