Gary V: Dancing not as easy anymore

Instead of trying to keep up with young performers, Gary Valenciano would rather stick to his own style and pace as age now plays a big factor in his performances.

At 47, Gary still has that young, energetic vibe when performing onstage. So it came as a surprise when he reveled that doing those powerful dance moves is “not as easy (as it was) anymore.”

“I don’t want to look as if I’m forcing it. Never will I do that. I’d rather be tired trying than saying I’m okay but my tongue is hanging,” Gary said at the press conference of his concert, “On Higher Ground” on Tuesday, April 10, in ABS-CBN compound.

He shared that the show was originally planned as a dance concert. But since it is a series of eight shows, “Gary V: On Higher Ground” will be a mix of his greatest hits, ballads and contemporary songs. The show, co-directed by his son, Paolo Valenciano, will still showcase Gary’s signature dances and songs.

“I must admit, at 47 years old, there comes a time when I have to say to myself, “Gary, I know you like to move. Okay lang, go ahead and move.’ But when you see the likes of Billy Crawford, Gab (Valenciano) and John Prats, (you tell yourself), “Gary, you don’t have to try keep up with those guys. You just have to move your own way and you’re fine.” So, that’s what I’ve been doing with this concert.”

“When you have the likes of Wally (Bayola) and Jose (Manalo) step out onstage, maririnig ninyo lang ang pangalan nila, alam ninyo kaagad na tatawa kayo. Hindi ninyo alam kung anong gagawin nila, pero tatawa kayo sigurado. People go out for this today,” Gary said when asked about his guesting in Wally and Jose’s recent concert.

Gary also talked about Anne Curtis, who got mixed reactions after she staged a concert even if she is not known as a singer.

He said people love Anne for who she is—whether she is a singer or not.

“Kasi, maraming nagtanong sa akin niyan, eh, ‘Bakit ganoon? Hindi naman singer?’ And then I look at them and say, ‘Hey, you wanna try what she’s doing? I mean, come on! Just let her ride that crest. Let her ride that wave.’ She is not known to be a singer, but she is a good actress. She’s a great host. And people love her for that,” Gary said.

He feels grateful people still continue to support him regardless of what’s in and what’s not in the scene right now.

“I am thankful na after 29 years, regardless of what I do, whether I come out in ASAP or I come out in a concert, people still go. And I’m very fortunate that people respect me in that manner.”

“On Higher Ground” will be held at the Music Museum on April 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27 and on May 9 and 10, with guests Julianne, Juan Miguel Salvador and Manouevers.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom