For its premiere telecast tomorrow night, Centerstage, GMA Network’s newest talent search hosted by Alden Richards, four powerhouse belters are gathered racing to get to the most coveted spot on the show.
An original Filipino concept developed by the network, Centerstage is billed as an exciting and innovative approach to the popular talent competition format. By utilizing the latest technologies, the show is able to push the format into new heights.
“Four singers start from the same point at the start of the show, then as they perform, the audience and celebrity judges vote using electronic devices. Their votes are immediately translated on the floor where the contestants are standing, the more votes they get, the floor panels light up until only two advance closer. The other two are eliminated,” Alden told the press during the show’s media launch held at studio 7 of GMA.
“The remaining two contestants battle it out in another sing-off, and the votes are again indicated on the stage floor to see who gets to stand on centerstage,” he added.
According to the actor, who’s sharing the hosting job with Betong Sumaya, apart from the exciting race, which test audiences have compared to a real-life video game, Centerstage also features the inspiring stories of the contestants.
“The show also aims to encourage these young artists through a segment, where there other interests and talents are highlighted, and they are given a surprise as reward for pursuing their passions,” Alden related.
Asked what makes Centerstage different from other GMA talent searches, or any talent searches on television for that matter, the bedimpled actor chimed, “We have an interactive set, and we’re looking for all-around music stars. As you can see, we have leveled up the competition.”
Since it’s his first time to host a competition like this, Alden shared how thrilled he is to get up close and personal with the aspirants.
“It’s something new for me, it’s going to be different, the main challenge is dealing with kids, we have a resident psychologist to guide us dealing with them because at the end of the day, it’s a competition, someone will win and many will lose.”
Centerstage gathers young aspiring performers aged 7 to 12 from different places in the Philippines to compete against each other through songs and by outracing opponents in a series of vocal performances until only one remains.
The search is led by Aicelle Santos, renowned musical director Mel Villena, and Pops Fernandez as judges.
Under the helm of Louie Ignacio, Centerstage airs every Sunday at 7:40 p.m., on GMA.