A mega triumph at the Big Dome

In sum, The Mega Event lived up to its title.

It was eventful in more ways than one.

It succeeded in chronicling (and more importantly, capturing) in a two-hour show the momentous life and career of Philippine Megastar Sharon Cuneta.

Highlights, this concert had plenty to spare. And share.

It began, in fact, with a comprehensive video montage of Miss Mega’s 25 years as a singer, actress, TV host, and product endorser – accompanied by a stirring Mr DJ Overture done by maestro (and Mega Event musical director) Ryan Cayabyab and performed by the San Miguel Philharmonic Orchestra.

So when Sharon suddenly appeared onstage (dolled up by Fanny Serrano and dressed up by Rajo Laurel), the 20,000-strong Araneta erupted in an overwhelming display of fan love.

As Sharon sang the closing lyrics of Mr. DJ (her first big hit song ever), she gently patted her heart, as if to stop it from bursting in sheer joy.

Another touching moment came early on when Sharon spotted Rey Valera, the hitmaker behind Mr. DJ, and not just tearfully acknowledged his presence, but asked him to take a well-deserved, much-appreciated bow.

Another well-applauded number was a medley of the songs she used to sing in her weekly musical-variety show The Sharon Cuneta Show which ran from 1986 to 1997.

As if that wasn’t awe-inspiring enough, Sharon then introduced her first guest artist, Martin Nievera, who sang the Megastar’s biggest Tagalog hits the classics by Rey Valera, George Canseco, and Willy Cruz.

The Concert King singing (beautifully) in Tagalog is a Mega Event in itself!

Sharon’s gospel medley was another high point that surely lifted the spirits of the audience. This was Sharon’s favorite portion of the show. She has always dreamed of singing Amazing Grace with a choir – and, in this case, the UP Concert Chorus held that singular honor.

Another favorite was Sharon’s spot number with Ryan Cayabyab and Louie Ocampo. Sharon singled out this medley as the "true highlight" of the show.

If the First Act was already full-packed, the Second Act was just as spectacular.

A sure crowd pleaser was the "Leading Men" tribute in which Sharon paid homage to the actors who have made her movie life truly significant. With lyrics by Jose Javier Reyes and music by Ryan Cayabyab, the humorous, catchy new song poked gentle fun at the actors in a high-tech, interactive way.

Sharon sang and exchanged witticisms with her leading men (Christopher de Leon, Cesar Montano, Edu Manzano, Rudy Fernandez, Rowell Santiago, Richard Gomez, and Robin Padilla) who suddenly appeared on the three large video screens.

It was a treat for the loyal Sharonians who have watched all 49 of Sharon’s movies since Dear Heart made box office history in 1981.

Another unforgettable moment came when Sharon finally got the chance to sing movie theme songs she seldom gets to sing onstage – Dear Heart, To Love Again, Pangako Sa ’Yo, Kung Kailangan Mo Ako, and Kumusta Ka.

Another showstopper was her "triet," according to Martin, of love songs with the Concert King Martin Nievera and Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano.

"What more can you ask for? To sing with two of the most brilliant singers in the country!" Sharon gushed with pride onstaged.

But of course, her Tala trilogy was part of the lineup.

When she sang Pangarap na Bituin (from Bukas, Luluhod ang mga Tala) in the first act, it was as if Sharon was singing it for the first time – as if each note and lyric was imbued with special meaning, a more heartfelt resonance.

It was as if you were watching a seasoned performer take her destiny by the horns – masterfully taking full control of her talents and blossoming right before your very eyes.

The same was true when she sang such Sharon standards as Bituing Walang Ningning and Sana’y Wala Nang Wakas – the national anthems of Sharonians the world over.

The same passion was also evident when she graciously sang her Encore number – Maging Sino Ka Man. She even changed the last lyrics of the song as a special message dedicated to her loyal fans who have been buying her records, watching her movies, following her concerts and TV shows for the past quarter of a century.

As she wrapped up her encore, the audience couldn’t help feeling that there might be a Mega Repeat in the offing? Maybe?

Well, if The Mega Event was mega-triumphant, it was because of people and corporations who have pulled all the stops for this project.

Sandra Chavez (of Artist House) joined forces with Eloisa Matias (for ABS-CBN 2), to make sure that The Mega Event was truly eventful. TV and stage director Johnny Manahan effectively orchestrated the whole spectacle, while musical director Ryan Cayabyab pushed the "Pop Concert" art form to the limit and came out a winner.

Bravo, Mega!