The scholars of the Original Pilipino Performing Arts (Oppa) Foundation were treated recently to a voice and acting master class with young Broadway star Andrew Keenan-Bolger at the Meridian International (MINT) College.
Emma Rose Almario, a second year Music Major in Vocal Performance at St. Scholastica’s College; September Gempesaw, who is taking up Theater Arts at MINT College; and Orion Flynn, an AB Music Production freshman at the College of St. Benilde, make up the pioneer batch of Oppa, which supports the local theater industry by nurturing young, aspiring theater talents.
“Apart from the financial assistance toward their education, we work to give our Oppa scholars the best guidance and mentorship opportunities,” says Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Philippine theater icon and Oppa Foundation president. “It’s great that they were given the chance to learn from and be inspired by young, highly accomplished international performers such as Andrew.”
With help from Travellers International Hotel Group Inc., owner and operator of Resorts World Manila, the foundation aims to cultivate Filipino talent by supporting the local industry with an initial funding of up to P100 million. The resources will be channeled to grants and scholarships providing artists with avenues and opportunities for development, and elevating standards and capabilities by providing global expertise and resources.
Assured by the foundation’s support, the Oppa scholars can focus on reaching their full potential and using their talents and passion to contribute to Philippine arts and culture.
“I’m so happy we got to meet and interact with Andrew,” said Almario. “I had an additional treat in being able to sing for him and the other students. It’s inspiring to meet a young person who was able to succeed on the world stage.”
Andrew Keenan-Bolger recently starred in the hit Broadway musical “Tuck Everlasting” and has also performed in “Newsies,” “Mary Poppins,” “Seussical,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Christmas Carol.” He has also acted in various films and TV shows, and is a published author.
Visit www.oppafoundation.org; e-mail [email protected] or [email protected].
