FILIPINO celebrity Alden Richards thrilled and engaged fans during his online concert “Alden’s Reality” held in three time slots on Dec. 8 and 9.

Dubbed “Alden’s Reality: The Virtual Reality Concert,” the project was a huge success as it reached audiences all over the world through the internet.

While it was an online show, fans had to secure tickets to the show. There were general admission tickets up for grabs. Then there were the coveted VIP tickets, which included one VR device (limited to Philippine residents only).

The sold-out concert, produced by Synergy: A GMA Collaboration and directed by Paolo Valenciano, was GMA Network’s gift for its supporters. GMA is currently celebrating its 70th anniversary. Richards is celebrating his 10th year in the industry.

“We would like to congratulate Alden for setting a new record of being the first Filipino artist to stage the first-ever virtual reality concert in the Philippines,” said GMA Regional TV and Synergy vice president and head Oliver Victor Amoroso.

“Being one of the network’s prime artists, we take pride with having Alden work with us. And while we really aimed for a world-class production, the success of ‘Alden’s Reality’ exceeded our expectations,” said Amoroso.

“Alden’s Reality” was a bold venture into fusing live entertainment and technology, allowing fans to enjoy and immerse themselves in a full-length concert wherever they may be, with just an internet-ready device on hand.

The concert kicked off with Richards waking up in his house and inviting the viewer on a trip to “Alden’s Reality.” Richards then starts with a dance number, and was joined by his friends Rodjun and Rayver Cruz.

Richards then settled down, and spent time conversing with his “date” for the night (viewers), while he shared some of his thoughts about life.

He also shared about his late mother, and how she inspired him to start a career in showbiz.

“It was my mom who really wanted me to become an actor,” said Richards. “That’s why I am giving my all to my craft as a tribute to my mom, who was my number one fan, even before I became famous.”

More music followed as the star serenaded viewers with his rendition of “God Gave Me You” and launched his latest single “Goin’ Crazy.” Richards also gave viewers a little taste of the K-pop craze when he danced to the beat of BTS’ “Dynamite.”

The virtual reality concert continued as Richards took the time to thank all the leading ladies he had worked with throughout his career. Adding music to the message was guest band December Avenue.

Friends in the industry then showed their appreciation for the multi-talented actor, as they greeted Richards on his 10th year in showbiz. These included Sanya Lopez, Christian Bautista, Mark Bautista and Betong Sumaya.

During and after the concert, fans took to social media sharing their experiences. The hashtag #AldensReality topped Twitter Philippines that day.

Another milestone for Richards was his single “Goin’ Crazy” reaching number one on iTunes Philippines.

“Thank you for making Goin Crazy #1 on iTunes PH! #AldenSingleGoinCrazy,” posted Richards on Twitter last Dec. 9.

“Thank you to all our Kapuso here and abroad who bought tickets and supported ‘Alden’s Reality.’ We would also like to congratulate all the people whom we had the pleasure of working with for this project. This is only the beginning. Expect bigger surprises from Synergy in the future,” added Amoroso.” S