Playshop extends enrollment ‘til April 11

At 15 years, Trumpets Playshop has proven it is no longer a fledgling or an ungainly, diffident workshop. Playshop opens more branches this year at The Podium, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Alabang Town Center, Glorietta, My Study Partner in Katipunan and Fully Booked at The Fort. Enrollment is extended ‘til April 11.

Over the years, Playshop has trained literally thousands of the young and young at heart in acting, musical theatre, music, dance, modeling, news casting, photography and other theatre and art related disciplines… turning the hesitant youth into self-assured performers and even some into big stars!

Counted among these graduates are pop diva Bituin Escalante; singing heartthrob Christian Bautista; young star Sam Concepcion; Hollywood Olympics champions Aria Clemente and Reymond Sajor; the Playshop Kids; recording artists Kyla, Cheska Ortega, Raki Vega, Joaqui Valdes and Gian Magdangal; news reporters Carlo Lorenzo and Nina Corpuz; thespians Maita Ponce and Red Concepcion; and TV personalities Bettinna Carlos and PJ Valerio.

For more information, contact (632) 636-2842 or visit www.trumpetsplayshop.com

The CompanY ‘gives back’ in summer workshop

Twenty-three years in the music business has taught Moy Ortiz, Annie Quintos, Sweet Plantado, Cecile Bautista and Jay Marquez—collectively known as The CompanY—a lot of things, which they are eager to pass on to the next generation of performers this summer through Trumpets Musicademy’s “Star Power” workshop.

“Star Power” workshop is not a basic voice workshop. Rather, it will teach students how to enhance the other aspects of live performance, from writing and delivering spiels to imaging. It will also touch on managing finances, bookings, dealing with the media, repertoire-building, microphone techniques, staging and choreography, and even recording a demo.

In short, if you intend to make singing a career—and want to become successful at it—these are things you need to learn to acquire true ‘star power’.

Classes will be held at The Podium and will run from April 2 to May 31 and will be open to teens and adults who should already have had the benefit of basic vocal training in pop singing, whether it’s R n B, standards, or straight up pop-jazz.

Explains Moy: “What we’re going to be doing here is more along the lines of a master class. It’s more of mentoring, of shaping the song and giving advice. It’s very hands-on. We want to make them [the students] aware of what they’re up against, and what it takes to succeed at a singing career.”

All the members of The CompanY agree that they have indeed learned a lot in the more than two decades that they’ve been in the business. “It takes a lot of hard work and vision,” says Annie.

“Also passion,” says Cecile. “Along the way, there have been lots of challenges. Fortunately, for us, Moy has that vision, and he has enough passion for all of us.”

Adds Moy: “Basically, it’s a combination of persistence and vision. Plus you’ve got to work hard and be willing to go the extra mile. Siyempre, nandiyan na rin yung talent. You have to have talent to give—and to that, you add the hard work and vision.”

That, in a nutshell, is what they will be passing on to their students in the “Star Power” workshop. They are eager to start the workshops, having had a taste of it when they became ‘teachers’ during the first season of Pinoy Dream Academy (PDA), whose second season is about to be launched by ABS-CBN.

There is so much to learn, says Moy, that there are even plans for the workshop to have a Part Two once Part One gets off the ground.

So if you want to learn how to be a star this summer, sign up for The CompanY and Trumpets Musicademy’s “Star Power” workshop.

For details, visit or call Trumpets Musicademy, 5/F, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, 636-2842 or 0917-896-4034. You can also check web site www.trumpetsplayshop.com.

Trumpets Playshop, which began in 1993, also offers courses in Children’s Theater, Children’s Musical Theater, Musical Theater for Teens and Adults, Streetdance for Teens and Adults, Public Speaking and Hosting, Modeling, Photography and Animation.

Christian and Sarah on 'Balitang America'

Christian Bautista and Sarah Geronimo were recently featured in Gel Santos’ television program “Balitang America” on TFC. The singers talked about their concerts in the US dubbed “Night of the Champions” in Houston, Texas on March 29 and Anaheim, California on March 30.

Christian and Sarah, together with fellow singing champions Rachelle Ann Go and Mark Bautista, just finished their 3-week concert tour in Canada.

Christian told “Balitang America” viewers that he will star in the Manila production of Broadway musical “West Side Story.” Auditions for principal and supporting cast will be held on March 29 to 30.

Whereas Sarah announced her upcoming film project that Viva and Star Cinema will be producing this year.

Updated: PloningTheMovie.Com

Visit "Ploning," the film's official web site at www.ploningthemovie.com

This much awaited Panoramanila Pictures Co. maiden production, starring Ms. Judy Ann Santos, opens in theaters across the Philippines on April 30, 2008.

Growing Up with Playshop

Trumpets Playshop, the trusted name when it comes to honing young talents, celebrates its 15th year this summer. Looking back at all its fruitful years, Playshop has earned the loyalty of its “regulars” – Sam, Cheska, Micah and Mikki. What keeps them coming back every year is no longer a secret.

Sam Concepcion, now 15, started attending Playshop when he was just 8. He is now a STAGES/Star Magic talent; has appeared in numerous commercials and shows; and made it to his first solo album under Universal Records. Sam is thankful for Playshop because it has helped him enter mainstream entertainment. “Playshop has taught me and is still teaching me how to have longevity as a performer whether on stage or on television.” Sam cannot forget the time he learned about the dictum, “Practice makes Permanent.” Sam claims, “Practice doesn't make everything perfect. But I always remember that if you keep on practicing one thing, whether you have the right or wrong technique, that’s what you’d keep on doing. That’s why I value my lessons at Playshop because they show me the right techniques.”

Cheska Ortega, STAGES/Viva’s new artist, started going to Playshop when she was just in grade school. She did not even like theater back then. She has been an incurably shy kid and will not even talk in class, but not after the summer she went to Playshop. Looking back, “I thank my mom for enrolling me. Playshop helped me a lot. It made me realize that there’s no need to be shy at all, but instead, I should shine.” At 15, Cheska has played Gabriella on the stage production of Disney’s “High School Musical;” has starred in several stage plays and music videos; and will come up with her own album very soon.

Micah Pineda, an accomplished thespian at a young age and is taking up Theater Arts in UP, has much to say about Playshop’s role in her life. “It has railroaded my life. I’m in UP taking up Theater Arts because Playshop made me realize what I want to become - an artist.” Micah hails from a family of doctors and had naturally thought of becoming a doctor as a kid. “But Playshop gave me confidence for my talents. I got to meet people I’m keeping for life. And it’s not just about acting, but most importantly, it teaches you the skills needed to excel in your professional life.”

Mikki Villa, a pioneer of Playshop Alabang, and who has constantly graced innumerable plays and musicals, landed into Playshop by fate. “I just knew one day that my sister enrolled me. I grew to love it and enrolled every summer since then. Playshop’s schedule is so flexible that I still have time to do other stuff. I guess, the key to enjoying fully is to be open-minded, be open to learn.” His varied experience in the theater makes him act as a “big brother” in Playshop. “I advise kids to find out their calling. It could be in the theater or somewhere else. But what's important is when they find out what they really want to do, they should strive to be very good at it.”

All four of them admit to being “scared” during their first day of attending their workshops in Playshop. “Not that the teachers are scary, but it is more like going in to your class in school for the first time, you don’t know who you’ll meet,” explains Mikki. But the four of them almost broke into a chorus into saying that the teachers of Playshop are amazing. “I believe they were the top of their field,” chimes Micah. Sam stresses that the teachers in Playshop give so much enthusiasm in teaching. “They are so willing to pass on their knowledge and they teach you how to respect the craft,” emphasizes Sam.

While all four of them claim that Playshop has been life-changing in a positive way, they are quick to note that expectations should be levelled. Playshop does not promise that everyone will hit high note, or be able to kick their foot over their head, or make us cry with a dramatic interpretation. But each summer workshop participant is required to stretch their limits. Young as they are, since Playshop admits kids as tender as four years old, they learn to work as artists – testing ideas and techniques, finding what does work and what does not work. In Playshop, there is room for singers who don’t dance, actors who don’t sing and dancers who don’t act. Practically, a room for everyone to grow.

Trumpets Playshop opens more branches this year. The summer workshops are available at The Podium, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Alabang Town Center, Glorietta, My Study Partner in Katipunan and Fully Booked at The Fort from April 2 to June 1.

For inquiries, call (632) 636-2842. You may download complete list of courses and schedule at www.trumpetsplayshop.com.

Christian is in search of Maria

Christian Bautista portrays the role of love struck Tony in STAGES’ production of popular Broadway musical “West Side Story,” set to run at Meralco Theater in September-October 2008.

Christian’s leading lady Maria, as well as supporting roles Anita, Bernardo, Riff, among others, is yet to be cast. Open auditions for singers and dancers with age 17-30 will be conducted on March 29-30, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. at Stand Studio, Brahma Building, 172 Mabini Street, Addition Hills, San Juan, Manila.

Maria must be pretty and slim. She has to be a soprano 1, preferably with classical or musical theater voice training.

Anita must be a strong dancer and an alto with impressive acting skills. Bernardo must also be a strong dancer and actor. Riff must be mestizo with strong dancing and gymnastic background.

The rest of the cast should be a mix of mestizo and Pinoy-looking actors. They must be strong dancers who can sing, preferably with jazz, ballet or hip-hop background.

Aspirants must bring 3R colored photo, resume and minus one CD. Singers must sing a song from any stage musical.

STAGES’ production of Broadway’s “West Side Story” is its third major theatrical offering after “Footloose The Musical” in 2005 and “High School Musical On Stage” last year.

“West Side Story” will be marketed in Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, where Asian pop idol Christian Bautista has a strong following.

For further audition inquiries, call Judith of STAGES at tel. no. (632) 818-1111 loc. 225. Fundraising groups, block buyers and corporate sponsors may call Eva at 0918-9396065.

“West Side Story” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI) in New York.

I wanna vote for David Archuleta

“American Idol” Season 7 has been truly engaging to watch primarily because of the brilliant singing voice, and irrefutable pop star charisma of 17-year old David Archuleta. Shun sleazy publicity stints around Philippines’ bet Ramiele Malubay, and former male club stripper David Hernandez. Let real talent rule in the game.

So if you’re my friend or relative staying in the US right now, please vote David Archuleta for me. Dial 1 866 43657 12.

On Going: 2008 WCOPA (Hollywood Olympics) Manila Auditions

Filipino dancers, singers, actors, models, instrumentalists and variety artists of all ages may try-out. Call Judith or Ireen of STAGES at tel. no. (632) 818-1111 loc. 225 for audition schedule and requirements.

2008 WCOPA (Hollywood Olympics) will be held at the Universal City Walk, Hollywood, CA and Westin Bonaventure, downtown LA on July 19-26, 2008.

Past grand winners include Jed Madela, Aria Clemente, Reymond Sajor and the Cercado Sisters.

The Office of the President supports the 2008 WCOPA Team Philippines.

More info can be found at www.worldchampionships.tv

Judy Ann Santos joins ‘indie’ bandwagon - Manila Times

By Sylvia Santamaria

SANTOS: Ready to take on more challenging roles

If you can’t beat them, join them.

Now that independent film productions have overtaken the movies being produced by the major studios, the country’s most bankable commercial stars are lining up for coveted roles in the indie front.

That perhaps is the reason why Judy Ann Santos has agreed to star in her first-ever independent movie. Santos has quietly wrapped up work for Ploning, directed by production designer turned filmmaker Dante Nico Garcia. The movie, shot entirely in Cuyo Island, Palawan, is the first outing of Panoramanila Pictures Co., a new film outfit composed of film enthusiasts and experts who have done work in mainstream productions, infusing the independent cinema spirit with commercial filmmaking sensibilities.

“I instantly liked the lead female character when I read through the script. She’s so real, her conflicts are understandable, always caught between loving and moving on with life,” says Santos.

The title Ploning is inspired from a popular Cuyonon folk song and it tells the story of an island-woman’s promise, and her many struggles with herself, with life and her family, made more complex with her ideals about hope and love.

Santos has to learn the Cuyonon dialect for this prized role. “That wasn’t easy, “ she admits, “but after immersing ourselves in their environment and their culture, it became natural after some time.” Joining Santos in the powerhouse cast are Eugene Domingo, Ronnie Lazaro, Gina Pareño, Meryll Soriano, Ces Quesada, Joel Torre, Mylene Dizon, Tony Mabesa and Tessie Tomas.

“For our maiden project, the producers intend to portray a more beautiful and positive Philippines. We want to veer away from the stereotype images of third world poverty, sex, gambling and violence presented by the current crop of Filipino films that have penetrated the international film festivals,” shares Jourdan Sebastian, executive producer.

To address investment constraints usually hounding independent filmmaking, the producers have developed an equity-sharing scheme among its cast and key production staff members. Santos has reportedly agreed to this kind of an arrangement. When the film earns, the investors’ profit is based on the shares allotted to them.

Ploning, shot with live sound and in the traditional 35mm film format, is independently-produced but will be marketed and distributed commercially both here and abroad.

“I am just so happy they offered me this wonderful role, “ enthuses Santos, who couldn’t contain her excitement telling her closest friends about her amazing island adventures in Palawan. “Oftentimes, actors crave for challenging roles that will make us more fulfilled and give us more opportunities to improve as artists.”

Santos feels that she is ready to explore new possibilities as an actor, especially now that she’s turning 30. “Ploning will hopefully signal the start of a new chapter in my being an artist,” she beams. The movie opens in cinemas on April 30...

“My Talent” Summer Workshops at Eastwood City

Eastwood City will be the venue for an exciting new training concept called “My Talent” summer workshops. Headed by STAGES' president Audie Gemora, “My Talent” is a project by an upcoming performance arts school Wheaton International.

“My Talent” courses focus on the discovery and honing of an individual’s God-given talents, which include:

Musical Theater – learn Broadway style performance combining the three disciplines of acting, singing, and dancing.

Street Dance – learn the latest grooves from today’s freshest hip hop dancers.

Commercial Modeling – sit through an introductory course on the ins and outs of the commercial modeling industry, learn how to audition (VTR audition), and act in television commercials.

Photography – learn about the basic techniques, studio set up, portraiture, and fashion pictorial.

Guitar lessons – get into a high-level musical experience, which exposes students to new concepts, and skills on the classical guitar.

Pop Performance - get coaching on vocal technique, image building, song interpretation, live performance, singing competitions, and pointers on starting up a recording career.

Classes will run April 1 to May 31 with culminating showcases at Eastwood City. For inquiries, call (02) 3845578, 0922-7848823, 0920-9202932.

“…an exciting prospect, a film called ‘Ploning’…” – Business Mirror

“…SUMMER brings many plans and developments. From Panoramanila Pictures Co. comes this exciting prospect, a film called Ploning. The film, shot entirely on Cuyo, Palawan, is based on a popular Cuyonon folk song. There is something about this film worth noting. There is, first of all, the participation of Judy Ann Santos, who remains one of the major film actresses of this generation. The other thing that interests me is Panoramanila’s claim that it “fuses independent cinema spirit with commercial filmmaking sensibilities.” Seemingly going against the grain of supposed indies, Panoramanila says it wants “to veer away from the stereotype images of Third World poverty,” among other things. Ploning is expected to be released in April…” – Tito Genova Valiente, Business Mirror

Manila’s first oceanarium opens

Thousands of Filipino families troop to the Manila Ocean Park (MOP), which opened on the same day demonstrators and former presidents converge along Ayala Avenue clamoring for President Arroyo’s resignation.

The Philippine goverment remains in control. President Arroyo was guest of honor in the opening ceremonies of the marine themed park, located at the back of the Quirino Grand Stand in Luneta Park, Manila.

The complex is only 40 per cent complete. Besides the oceanarium, a mall, a restaurant row, a boutique hotel, open water marine habitats, and multi-purpose function facilities are expected to rise.

The oceanarium is said to be first and largest aquarium facility in the country. It only houses sharks, fishes, and invertebrates endemic in the Philippines. So don’t expect to interact with emperor penguins in the coming days. And most especially, don’t expect endangered sea animals, like the endearing whale shark (butanding), to swim around the facility's 25 meter-long underwater tunnel.

Although the water tanks at MOP are not as humongous as that of Siam Ocean World in Bangkok (the oceanarium I first visited), parents and kids will still be in awe by the sight of star fishes, hermit crabs, blue-spotted sting rays, sea cucumbers, barracudas, tawny nurse sharks, trevallies (talakitok), octopuses, electric eels, and groupers (lapu-lapu).

But you will leave the place quite disappointed for not being able to spend more time to learn about these wide varieties of sea animals. The whole facility is definitely cramped on its opening weekend. Steep entrance tickets (PhP 350 for kids and PhP400 for adults) didn’t prevent families to flock to this side of town.

Enjoying the fish spa will cost you additional 100 bucks.

View sting ray video on Youtube.