Debuts tend to have a grand spotlight of its own among those who can afford in Philippine society.
While young misses celebrate this milestone when they turn 18, young lads legally come of age at 21.
The debut of James Benedict Gamboa-Cuesta—young and successful CEO of trading and cargo forwarding servicies companies—on September 23, 2022, was not only a display of fancy ensembles but also an exquisite mise-en-scène filled with magic and adventure inspired by Michael Gracey's 2017 musical film The Greatest Showman.
In an e-mail exchange with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal), James recalled, "It was the Christmas of 2018 that I saw the theatrical movie, The Greatest Showman. From that moment, I knew that the show would be my debut theme.
"First, the story—I love how the character evolved from nothingness to having everything, then fall down, and got back up with his friends/staff.
"That was a story of resiliency, bravery, and amity. Being alone on top is nothing, it is bringing others who joined you in the process, together, at the top, that makes it much more meaningful."
James continued, "Second, the fantasy—people became happy, not because of tangible things, but with beliefs. Believing that something will make you happy, will eventually make you happy.
"It’s a matter of faith and positivity that gave me chills as I see the happiness in the faces of the children and the audience of the show."
"Third, the music—all The Greatest Showman music and performances were outstanding, lively, meaningful, and unforgettable," he said.
James had the grand ballroom of City of Dreams Manila transformed into his vanguard version of a circus in mid-19th century New York City, displaying his flair for innovation.
"I wanted a show for my debut, and this show inspired me to give meaning in a creative way."
"Lastly, the family representation—I love how they valued the relationships inside a family.
"From a very loving and connected family, I find myself in the shoes of the characters. I love how they fought for their future and for their togetherness."
THE DETAILS OF JAMES GAMBOA-CUESTA'S DEBUT
Fashion is a passion for James.
For his debut suit, he picked none other than the celebrated Francis Libiran.
James shared, "Francis, aside from being a very humble and good person, is a genius and wildly creative. I just told him vaguely what I want, and he gives more than what I could actually imagine."
The people behind James' spectral look of the night were the makeup artist Jelly Eugenio, retouch hairstylist Lei Ponce and retouch makeup artist Diana May.
Meanwhile, the cirque-like performances that wowed the crowd were led by Geraldine Uy and Marc Andre Esguerra.
James' towering cake created by Cubcakes Philippines was a fascinating centerpiece that featured whimsical circus stunts and figures of acrobats, trapeze artists, and contortionists.
Venue stylist and florist Mighty Melegrito and Jay Daileg of Migs Styling Production, and production managers Rhaymond Pascual and Victor Harry Hartman, teamed up to bring James' debut vision to reality.
Finally, Nice Print Photography was in charge of the photo and video coverage.
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