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| Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion |
It was Kara Amantillo's dream to celebrate her 18 th birthday, complete with a cotillion and all the trimmings that make up a grand debutante's ball. Her first dance was with her Dad, Gino Amantillo.
The dream debut, titled “Kara, Legally 18, the Broadway Musical Night”, at the La Proa Ballroom of L'Fisher Hotel in Bacolod, was lovingly supervised by Mommy B-ging Amantillo and Daddy Gino, who made sure their debutante's party would be extra special. The party opened with a song from Cinderella, “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes”, and the debutante entered – looking so radiant in her magenta red Johnjohn Ditching gown – escorted by her big brother Ken, and segued to an offering of bouquet by parents Gino and B-ging.
This was followed by the Cotillion Dance participated in by seven pairs of cousins and Kara's close friends. The theme of broadway hit, Phantom of the Opera, was choreographed by Lyndon Estanol, a friend and dance troupe barkada of B-ging way back in college at La Salle.
After the cotillion, Kara was ushered to her beautiful cake with her parents for the birthday cake candle blowing and singing. During dinner, Broadway excerpts were presented: Front act was Kara's first cousin, Gia Gargoles, followed by Broadway numbers, like Mulan's “Reflection” by Church choir mate Trisha Marie de Vera; “New York, New York” - a song and dance number performed by the father and son tandem of Anthony and Ali Visitacion; “Chorus Line” dance number by the youngest and so charming sister of Kara, Kyla Amantillo; “Sister Act” by Kara and her church choirmates.
The most applauded was the finale, “Dancing Queen”, a “Mamma Mia” Broadway hit. This was followed by the presentation of 18th Roses – composed of male cousins, male close friends/barkadas in high school and college. The 18 candles were presented by female cousins and close friends, who gave their wishes for Kara.
The first dance was from escort, brother Ken, second to the last was Lolo Ramon Arboleda, and the last dance was the most moving and touching one, as Daddy Gino wrapped his arms around the teary-eyed and happy Kara.
Her parents also expressed their joy and pride in their lovely debutante on her special day. Happy Birthday, Kara!*
