Showstopper!!!
by Ernie Pecho

I had often wondered why people were raving over Club Mwah - until I finally went to the place and watched its much talked-about musical extravaganza.

Now I understand why comparisons are being made between the Follies de Mwah and the acts of the world-renowned Las Vegas troupes. Electrifying is the word! The Follies de Mwah's opening production number is the audience's gateway to a wonderful world of fabulous costumes, lively music, creative choreography - simply superb entertainment fare even to jaded fun seekers.

Club Mwah's Lady Maramalade rendition reminded us of the hit film musical starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, Moulin Rouge.

The Club's president Cris Nicolas as Liza Minelli is a certified crowd pleaser. "Liza" performs a medley of Minelli hits, then segues into a full-length version - complete with chorus girls-of Cabaret.

The Patti Page pop classic, How Much is That Dog in the Window, has pets and pet lovers wearing matching costumes. A doggie wuite with a comic twist!

Club Mwah's executive vice president Pocholo Mallilin, informed me that the Club has weekend presentations called Bedazzled, as if their weekday presentations weren't dazzling enough.

Then there is Club Mwah's Diana Ross special, which features performances of several local impersonators of the soul diva. Guests are also encouraged to come in Diana Ross costumes and hair-dos.

Club Mwah is barely eight months old in the local entertainment scene, but it is already drawing legions of tourists to its performances. Its Website has been getting thousands of hits, which explains why foreign visitors include Club Mwah in their itenerary each time they are in the country.

The night we were there, the entire Hong Kong Hairdressers Association were dancing wildly and clapping their hands to every number.

In addition to their shows, Club Mwah likewise offers spacious function rooms for exclusive parties. Plus a music room where everybody can enjoy the videoke.

Celebrities like Ai Ai de las Alas and Angelica Jones recently celebrated their birthdays in Club Mwah. As did Philippine Daily Inquirer entertainment editor Emmie Velarde.

Among the popular stars who have enjoyed Club Mwah's shows are Maricel Soriano, Roderick Paulate, Diana Zubiri, Juliana Palermo, Charo Santos, Korina Sanchez, Giselle Sanchez, Phoemela Baranda, Mylene Dizon, former Miss International Gemma Cruz, directors Laurice Guillen, Maryo delos Reyes, broadcaster Nina Corpuz and many more.

A hotel owner reportedly watches the Follies de Mwah; maybe he is looking for bright ideas, to give the entertainment segment of his property a facelift!

As we write this, Club Mwah is prepping up for a grand production to celebrate its forthcoming first anniversary.

"On this very special occassion, we will give you an evening that will be written in Philippine entertainment History," Pocholo promised.

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