I Auditioned for Repertory Philippines Portrait of the Artist as Filipino

Very Low Chances The probability of getting a role in the Repertory Philippines production of the Nick Joaquin classic Portrait of the Artist as Filipino was very low to almost nil, yet I felt it was important to go to the auditions on 20 October 2008 in order to pay tribute to the late Joy Soler

Joy Soler as Candida I worked with Joy Soler in the Dulaang UP production of Portrait of the Artist as Filipino, which Anton Juan directed several years ago.

With her seniority, Joy Soler could have treated us like minions, but, she didn’t. She was gracious enough to greet and talk to everyone, and, as an actor, I admired her performances as Candida, where the role required her to breakdown during each and every show.

My Audition as Paula, Irene and Violet As I read the famous blackout scene as Paula, the sister of Candida, I let myself be swept into the scenario of two sisters plagued by survival concerns amidst the world war.

There was also a short dialogue as Dona Irene, an old family friend of the two sisters.

I also read another scene with a female actor auditioning for Susan (my role in the Dulaang UP production) who is a “cheap dance hall girl.” This time, I played her friend, Violet, who was the louder and more vulgar friend of Susan.

Kind Words from Director Jose Mari Avellana Quiet and sincere comments from director Jose Mari Avellana like “That was well done” and “You did very well” were a balm to the acting spirit.

And, as I walked out of the Repertory Philippines rehearsal hall into the bright afternoon sunlight, I had a serene smile on my face as I dedicated my audition to Ms. Joy Soler.

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