Dr Jerry Dayao Sofronio Vasquez And Zelle De Vilbis Producers Sofronio Vasquez Pasadena Concert Producers
Sofronio “carries himself with such grace and humility, even as he represents hope for so many people who feel underrepresented”
“This concert represents something really meaningful – it’s Sofronio’s opportunity to share his artistry with Los Angeles in a way that honors both his incredible journey and the community that supports him. We’re approaching every detail with the care and excellence this moment deserves,” said GodZella International’s Zelle Ochoco-DeVilbiss, who is producing “The Voice Winner: Sofronio Vasquez Live in Los Angeles” on October 11 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium with Overture25 Productions’ Dr. Jerry Dayao.
“Every show is special,” said Dr. Jerry. “There are no two similar performances. This is even more special since it is at the Pasadena Civic. Many greats have performed here. Sofronio is next. We have invested in a great production, which our patrons at our first Sofronio concert in New York City can attest to. But this will be a bigger venue.”
Zelle added, “I believe the best experiences happen when you combine thoughtful planning with genuine heart, and that’s exactly what we’re bringing to this production. There will be moments that surprise and inspire, because that’s what happens when you create space for authentic artistry to flourish.”
While “The Voice Winner: Sofronio Vasquez Live in Los Angeles” is the duo’s second production, a follow-up to their sold-out New York show with the Philippines’ new international singing sensation, they are experienced, successful executives who are bringing passion and commitment to excellence to entertainment.
Zelle Ochoco-DeVilbiss, the founder and CEO of GodZella International, brings over 20 years of Fortune 500 executive experience and a proven track record as a successful serial entrepreneur to the entertainment industry. With expertise in pioneering global operations, leading diverse international teams, and creating transformative experiences across multiple business ventures, Zelle combines strategic vision with operational excellence to produce world-class concerts and cultural events.
Also a leadership mentor to Asian women professionals abroad, she is passionate about creating platforms where exceptional talent can command the recognition they deserve on the world stage.
Dr. Jerry Dayao, the founder of Overture25 Productions, brings over two decades of senior healthcare executive experience and strategic vision to the entertainment industry. He is involved in several active projects related to entrepreneurship and AI in research.
As a leader who understands the importance of operational excellence and developing exceptional talent, Dr. Dayao is committed to bringing transformative cultural experiences through music and performance.
GodZella International and Overture25 Productions were born from a shared vision between two friends, Zelle and Dr. Jerry, who believe in the extraordinary talent of Sofronio after his historic victory on NBC’s “The Voice.”
Recognizing that Sofronio has become the first Filipino and Asian artist to win the coveted syndicated contest, Zelle and Dr. Jerry are collaborating through their respective companies on the principle that exceptional artists like the Misamis Occidental native should not merely perform on stage, but command the global stage with the recognition and world-class production their talents deserve.
This partnership represents more than just concert production – it’s about showcasing the Filipino community to the world, bringing inclusion, and breaking cultural barriers in the entertainment industry.
Together, GodZella International and Overture25 Productions combine strategic vision, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to creating transformative concert experiences that celebrate breakthrough achievements, honor cultural heritage, and empower artists to reach their full potential before global audiences, creating cultural moments that inspire, influence, and elevate artistic excellence to new heights.
On what both saw in Sofronio that inspired them to tap him as the headliner of their first concert under GodZella International and Overture25 Productions, Zelle remarked, “It actually started with a conversation between two friends who have incredible admiration for Sofronio’s talent. Jerry called me with this idea of producing a concert, and I’ll be honest, my first response was, ‘But I don’t know how to produce a concert!’ Jerry’s response was so simple yet so powerful, ‘If other producers can do it, we can learn how to do it.’
“That spirit of possibility is exactly what we saw in Sofronio. There are moments in life when you witness something so profound that you know you’re in the presence of greatness. Watching Sofronio on ‘The Voice’ was one of those moments. Here was this artist stepping into his purpose and claiming his space on the biggest stage in America.
“As the first Filipino and Asian to win, Sofronio wasn’t just singing. He was opening doors and showing millions of people around the world that their dreams matter. When I heard him pour his heart into ‘Crying’ and lift spirits with ‘If I Can Dream,’ I knew this was bigger than entertainment. This was about representation that actually changes lives, and we had to be part of that story.”
Dr. Jerry stressed, “Sofronio doesn’t just perform. He connects. When I watched him on ‘The Voice,’ I saw someone who could reach out and touch your heart. The millions of views prove people felt it, too. They saw hope, authenticity, and proof that dreams are real.
“I called Zelle because I knew we both believe in swift actions. We didn’t know how to produce a concert, but we knew great talent deserves to be shown in the best way possible. That’s where it started. There’s always time for first, and that is the adventure.”
“Standing in that historic venue, Town Hall, surrounded by centuries of musical history, watching Sofronio connect with every person in that room – it was extraordinary,” Zelle recounted when she and Dr. Jerry watched their debut New York concert production unfold as producers.
Zelle continued, “You could feel something powerful happening, something bigger than all of us. The audience wasn’t just listening; they were part of something meaningful. In that moment, I was reminded why this work matters so much to me. We weren’t just witnessing a concert; we were witnessing the kind of moment that inspires people to believe in themselves and their own possibilities.”
Dr. Jerry, for his part, shared, “All our beliefs and planning came together in that one room. What stayed with me most was watching people from every age and background come together through one voice. That’s when you know it’s bigger than a show. It’s a moment that matters. And also, how often do you get to produce a show in Times Square on a Saturday? Seize the opportunity!”
On why the producers think Sofronio appeals to so many people, stirring excitement and admiration that only a few Filipino musical performers in recent times can claim to, Zelle said, “Sofronio has this remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life because his artistry comes from a place of genuine authenticity. When you listen to him sing, you hear someone who understands the power of storytelling, who knows that music can bridge differences and bring people together. What moves me most is how he carries himself with such grace and humility, even as he represents hope for so many people who feel underrepresented.
“When families see him succeeding on the world’s biggest stages, when young people see someone achieving what was once thought impossible, something shifts. They begin to see their own potential differently. That’s the kind of impact that extends far beyond entertainment.”
“Authenticity…every word means something to him and you believe it,” Dr. Jerry cited. “And he can sing anything. That’s rare. That’s why people all over the world are paying attention. There are lots of great voices, but the voices that move are usually the authentic ones. His story is real – that I think is what shapes the story he tells, which his voice serves as the vehicle.”
Zelle flew from the East Coast to watch Sofronio perform as a guest performer of the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra in the recent “Ode to Summer” concert at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles.
“That moment at the Cathedral was truly special,” Zelle enthused about witnessing Sofronio being mobbed by admiring audience members during his numbers. “Watching that audience surround Sofronio with such genuine love and enthusiasm – it was beautiful to witness. What struck me most was how naturally he connected with everyone there. Sofronio has this gift of making people feel seen and valued, and in return, they give him their hearts.
“In that moment, I realized he represents something so important – he’s proof that when you stay true to yourself and work hard for your dreams, incredible things can happen. The joy on those faces wasn’t just about the music; it was about seeing someone reach heights that inspire all of us to reach higher, too.”
As for their coming Pasadena Civic concert, which will feature surprise guest stars, Zelle pointed out, “What excites me most is the opportunity to use everything I’ve learned in my career to create something that truly matters. My years in corporate leadership taught me that excellence requires both strategic thinking and genuine care for the people you’re serving.
“As someone who mentors young Asian women professionals, I understand how important it is to create platforms where people can see their own potential reflected to them. When I watch Sofronio perform, I see what’s possible when preparation meets opportunity. This concert is our chance to show that exceptional talent deserves exceptional production, and I’m honored to be part of that story.”
Dr. Jerry said, “My background is in large-scale health system operations. Many of the skills I have are transferable to producing a show. It is managing projects, ensuring that they are high quality and at the same time efficient and cost-effective.”
“My role as a co-producer is to manage the operations of the production, ensure everyone gets paid, ensure that the accounting is good, and that we over-deliver… which we always do. I am also an art collector and an enthusiast for rare artifacts. I believe that this concert is a culmination of different high-level expressions of art – this is why I am excited about every production because I enjoy them, including the process of making them.”
Looking forward, the two producers talked about their long-term vision for GodZella International and Overture25 Productions.
“My vision is built on the belief that everyone deserves to see their potential realized,” Zelle began. “For too long, incredibly talented artists from diverse backgrounds have had to navigate an industry that didn’t always make space for them. We’re committed to changing that.
“We want to build a company where artists from all communities know they can bring their authentic selves, stories, and heritage – and be celebrated for all of it. This isn’t just about individual success; it’s about creating a path for the next generation of artists who deserve to see themselves represented at the highest levels. When we invest in excellence and authenticity, everyone benefits.”
Dr. Jerry shared, “I don’t believe in long-term visions. I believe in aspirations as they require action. My goal is to continue to support world-class talent by ensuring high-caliber productions. Now, where it leads from these non-negotiables (high quality and ethical) is to continue to support the arts. For now, it is supporting the global talent of Sofronio in ensuring we produce an exceptional show in Pasadena this October 11! This is not a show to miss.”
Tickets to “The Voice Winner: Sofronio Vasquez Live in Los Angeles,” this year’s eagerly awaited major concert, are available at Ticketmaster.
