I have always been asked on job interviews of ,"how do I see myself 10 years from now?". I have always responded the same thing. Back then I always say, I see myself with a stable job, maybe a family of my own, and/or performing in Broadway and living in New York. I know the latter is so ambitious of me, but I didn't care then.
10 years after, I may not have a family of my own yet, yes I am so grateful for the work I have now, I may not be living in New York yet (and still remains as a far-fetched dream), and obviously I have not been able to go back and perform on stage for years.
But, I am happy.
As yesterday marked my 10th year anniversary in a corporate setup, it made me think of the things I've done. The things/companies I let go of in order to move forward. It made me remember all the incredible people I met who became part of my struggles and achievements. It made me think of the opportunities I didn't take, just so I could do what I want and be in a job where I think would bring out more of the best in me. I had no regrets.
Now, I may not be the one performing and being cheered onstage, but I have been given opportunities to see and capture great performances/shows/actors/scenes. I may not be on the front-line of straight plays or musicals, but I developed a deep drive in supporting start-up independent groups/artists, even the well established ones. I have been surrounded by people who love and cherish the same things I do. I have been meeting good, creative, and beautiful souls in my arts journey. Maybe it's because of these never-ending love for the craft and the people in it -- in this country, that I think were reasons why I've always placed my application abroad on-hold. I'm not even sure anymore if I'll fit in other countries in the first place.
As one of the quotes I live by states: "Sometimes, you may not end up where you want to be, but you will ALWAYS end up where God wants you to be."
I truly believe this is where HE wanted me to be. This is what HE wanted me to do. And for these 10 years and more years to come (hopefully), I know HE will always be there to back me up. :-)
Part I
I know some, if not, most of you may be tired of me talking about my Fringe Manila experience. But I just can't help sharing what I've been (and still going) through because of it. I'm hoping you get to share it with me next time. ^_^
It's true that the festival opened a LOT of opportunities for artists, and most especially interns and/or volunteers like me. And it's not everyday that doors were just opened like that. It's not also everyday that I get to extend my arms and grab every bit of opportunity that passes along my way. I'm so glad I did. Why? Let me loop you in on some "happenings" during, and even a month after the festival has ended.
1. I was able to meet some artists I thought I will only see and befriend on Facebook. They've never been so genuine and kind as they appear on shows hidden by the characters they portray, or behind the masterpieces they make. You will see them interact with their lovely audience and fans, smiling, shaking hands, hugging, laughing along, adding a good sound with the crowd's cheers.
2. Capturing special moments or actions in-between performances, even after the show ended, has been one of the favorite things I keep coming back to as I check and upload the photos and/or videos I managed to make. And it always fills my heart with joy whenever I remember the actual moment when I was standing, or seating there.
3. My photos have been shared and/or used in online magazine portals or blog sites, even if I didn't ask for it. A big THANK YOU to the awesome writers I met along the way, who always get my consent before using the materials and are so gracious to put me on credits. You know who you all are. Thank you.
4. One of the great international visual artists featured in the festival, gave me two of his art pieces on exhibit, as a gift for being nice and supportive of the arts. And to be honest, I have never received an actual gift for my birthday this year, and most especially have not received any gift for just being nice. YOU were the first person to do that for me. THANK YOU. I truly appreciate the gesture.
5. Walking to and from La Salle CSB-SDA to Sev's Cafe did not tire me at all. Because I knew that when I get to my destination, I will be surrounded by happy people. Spending my late nights watching comedy shows, magic, poetry, and spoken words (despite worrying if my boss is looking for me already to get back to my actual work online), has never been rewarding. I'm just glad my boss supports the arts too and the other things I love doing. I've never gotten back to work with a smile on my face each night as I remember a joke or two that was thrown on air, and/or a line or two from the poetry that was just said. Spending those nights watching those shows, were all worth it.
6. I have never seen so many colorful and awesome production/set pieces from different production/school companies. Kudos to all designers and technical staff!
7. Of course, I will not leave the music behind. Hearing new songs, with great lyrics, tied up with fantastic performances of the actors --- just left me in awe. That until now, I have an LSS (last song syndrome) for some of them. Keep composing! Keep doing musicals! Keep bringing new music to this generation!
8. And finally, as I was working at Burger King, Marcos Highway last night (getting away from my terrible net connection at home), another wonderful featured artist sent me a message. She wanted to bring her show to another festival in AUSTRALIA, and she would like to have a copy of my documentation for submission. I literally almost jumped out of my seat! Whoah!!!! :-D
I never expected anything when I joined Fringe. All I wanted was to witness the process, and watch the shows, at the same time participate in the little ways I know how. For sure there are still a lot of things that happened which I haven't mentioned here. But as soon as I remember them, I will try to update this list. For now, I just wanted to say that I am forever grateful for meeting such wonderful souls and creative geniuses who made this festival possible.
Here's to hoping I get to see and meet you all in Fringe Manila, February 2016! Come share it with us. I assure you, it would be fun! Until we meet again. See you there! ^_^
#FringeMNL #FringeManila2015 #pa #SupportTheArts #JBandAssociatesPH
Let me help you.
Go to this link (Fringe Manila Program Guide), print it out, or mark your planners and calendars. Do whatever suits you best. I just have one favor - don't forget to leave your comments and share your experience with us, okay?
I look forward to seeing you all at the festival!!! Oh, and don't forget to carry your smiles. I might be where you are and get you on-cam. :-)
Buy your tickets now at www.ticketworld.com.ph and visit www.fringemanila.com for more details and updates on upcoming events!
How will you FRINGE in 2015?
FRINGE. The World's Largest Arts Festival
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