Love goes 3D with Jon Santos

MANILA, Philippines - Enjoy a laugh-filled and romantic Valentine celebration with Jon Santos and his “all-star cast” in Love In 3D on Feb. 15 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila.

The Viva Concerts and Events presentation will feature the comedian’s new take on his best-loved “D characters,” namely D Queen of Philippine Music Tita Mids, D’ Star for All Season Ate Vee and D’ Gleeful Star Chareez.

“It’s a celebrity fiesta,” Jon says. Known for his hilarious impersonations of famous people, Jon chooses his impersonations — like Tita Gloring, Krissy, Sherrap Estrada and the unparalleled Ate Vee — because they are popular and they resonate with the public. “I like to use the term point of reference,” says Jon, who is almost soft-spoken in everyday life but with flashes of comedic brilliance. “My characters are chosen because they are really, really liked or there is strong public opinion about them.”

Jon points to the global Pinoys who “shine whereever they go.” “The word is ‘Glocal’ — they stay Pinoy even away from the Philippines,” says Jon, who himself spends part of the year abroad for both personal and professional reasons.

“Live entertainment involves going to new cities,” says Jon, citing cities like Los Angeles, US and Toronto, Canada as some of his regular gigs. “Soft spot na rin ang Canada for me. I have the most family members there. And doon din kami nag-civil union,” he adds with a smile.

His comedy career began in 1986, when Jon was a student at the University of the Philippines, studying Economics. “Prof. Winnie Monsod was my first character,” he says. “During those days, Tessie Tomas and Willie Nepomuceno started to fill up lounges and biggest venues because with the new freedom that came with the EDSA Revolution, political comedy became popular.”

Supporting characters like the soldier or the “PSG carrying an umbrella” or “Imee and her couturier” became Jon’s roles. “During my thesis week, I was touring with Willy and Tessie’s shows,” he says.

In 1988, Jon mounted his first one-man show Jon of Art. His career shifted to television, doing late-night talk shows, musical variety shows and socio-political sitcoms.

But there’s nothing like a Jon Santos live. “When I take the stage my characters come out first,” he says. “I put on the masks first and towards the end come out as myself.” He talks about becoming other people but knowing that he has a persona. “That persona has always taken a backseat to my characters. I guess I’m star-struck!”

Of course, Jon is a self-confessed Vilmanian. He waxes poetic about Vilma, not just one of the biggest stars in Philippine entertainment but also an elected public official. “She crosses over from politics to showbiz and back. She can say one thing and it can be about motherhood, love, stardom or politics.”

Jon calls her “ang taong for all seasons — awards season, holiday season, election season, and even back-to-school season.”

And yes, they are friends. “Over time, I’ve had the chance to meet her, and nabigyan niya ako ng acting tips,” Jon says. “She has validated my work and given me her friendship.”

Jon himself has a lot to be proud of but maintains a healthy attitude towards his success. “There are days when I feel that I’m really, really, really unique but there are days when my journey is nothing compared to my characters. They have higher highs, lower lows.”

Love In 3D has ABS-CBN as official TV partner with Manila Bulletin, Business World, People’s Journal and The Philippine STAR as print media partners; and 96.3 Easy Rock; 97 dot 9 Home Radio; RJ 100; 94.7 Mellow; 90.7 Love Radio and 105.1 Crossover as radio partners.

Tickets for Love In 3D are available at Ticketworld (tel. no. 891-9999), Resorts World Box Office and Viva Concerts (687-7236).