Almighty Bean

Tonight is one of the highlights of my otherwise normal days here in Texas.  Together with my Aunt Marissa, I watched the “Idols in Concert with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra” at the Meyerson Symphony Theater in Dallas, Texas.  Which idols you ask?  Well, tonight was my lucky night because my favorites Melinda Doolittle and Chikezie, together with Gina Glocksen and Phil Stacey were performing.

Being an orchestra girl myself, I felt like some dull parts of my brain were awoken by the wonderful sounds of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.  Before the 4 idols came out, the orchestra, led by Maestro Richard Giangiulo, played 4 pieces: Bernstein’s Overture to Candide, Barber’s Overture to School for Scandal, Copland’s Shaker Melody (”Simple Gifts”) from Simple Gifts, and Gershwin’s An American in Paris. The music was just flawless.  It made me miss the DLSU Pops Orchestra even more (they just celebrated their 25th anniversary yesterday).  What would I give to play in the Meyerson Symphony Center.

After a 15 minute intermission, the 4 performers went on stage to do some popular medleys which included Ain’t No Mountain High Enough and Sugar Pie Honey Bunch among many songs.  First to perform solo was Gina Glocksen.  To be honest, I wasn’t a big fan of Gina during her time in AI.  But judging from her performance tonight, I’d have to say she is the most improved.  She definitely stuck to her training, and now her voice is just perfect.  She sang Alone (Heart), At Last, Gravity (Sara Bareilles), and I’ll Stand By You (Carrie Underwood). Next to sing was Phil Stacey, and he didn’t disappoint.  He sang several songs from his album which came out last year, like If You Didn’t Love Me.  He also sang I’ll Be Watching You by the Police and Dead or Alive.  After Phil, my personal favorite, Melinda Doolittle wowed the audience with some singles from her Album Coming Back to You, and to my delight, she sang I’m a Woman and My Funny Valentine, which were some of her most popular songs during her time in Idol.  Chikezie was awesome as expected.  I was so happy to hear him perform I Believe to My Soul (Donny Hathaway/Ray Charles), A Song for You, and All the Woman I Need (Luther Vandross).  They also sang some songs together, such as For Good from the OST of the musical Wicked.

Gina Glocksen, autographed picture ^_^

The best part about being able to watch them was meeting them after the show.  I WAS going to bring my camera with me, but I decided against it (yeah I know, stupid, it’ll never happen again).  Still I was able to have my copy of Melinda’s CD signed, and I got the autographs of the 3 others.  I am so pleased to know that Melinda is still as down to earth as she was on Idol.  I told all of them that even we Filipinos watch them religiously, and I told them that I would’ve voted for them if I could.  Melinda said she was touched and inspired by what I said (say what?!) and Chikezie said that he was supposed to go to the Philippines together with Ramiele Malubay and other finalists.  Phil Stacey told me that in a few weeks he is headed to the Philippines too.

Melinda Doolittle CD

I am literally, still amazed that I got to embrace Melinda Doolittle and was able to talk to her for a few minutes.  Being able to meet 4 idol finalists was such an honor.  It feels good to know that the fame hasn’t gotten into their head.

my autographed Melinda Doolittle cd insert

It was easier getting to talk to them and having them sign autographs compared to the artists in the Philippines!  I mean, the line was long, but the only reason for that was because they were talking to each and every person in line!  They even made the kids sing in front of them sometimes.  There wasn’t any pushing and shoving involved thank goodness.  And all 4 of them were really nice and not showing any signs of being bored or irritated by the line.

phil stacey's autograph on the playbill

I don’t think this is the last time I’ll be seeing these 4 people.  I’m crossing my fingers!!! But this moment is my first up close and personal Idol time, and I am going to cherish it.  Who knows, maybe one day I’ll audition myself.  But for now, I’m just glad that I got to meet them and watch them live.  I wish my parents and my friends could also be here with me.  I’m sure we wouldn’t be able to keep our excitement to a minimum.  Again, thanks for the wonderful evening!

chikezie signed my playbill!!!