What is most laudable about the ongoing GMA Artist Center acting workshop with internationally-acclaimed New York-based acting coach Anthony Vincent Bova is the fact that the Kapuso network knows that apart from dancing, hosting and singing, acting truly makes a lasting impression.
Bova is back, with able assistance from facilitator Anna Feleo, as he introduces and supervises an extensive set of workshops on self-empowerment and meaningful character portrayals.
A former protégé of Eric Morris, Bova has been regularly visiting the Philippines to work his ‘magic’ on the Kapuso network’s most promising artists. Two years ago, GMAAC stars underwent a series of intensive acting exercises that further honed their skills and enabled them to attack roles differently.
Bova explains what actors learn from his workshop class.
“In my class, we focus on you, on the actor. You know, there is substitute to your uniqueness. Your uniqueness is what we must cultivate. In the exercises that we do, all your layers are being stripped off. We will be removing your emotional blocks. Your vulnerability will be exposed. My workshop and the exercises are designed to bring out your authentic self, how to be free, especially when it comes to your feelings.”
Currently enrolled in his workshop are 50 Kapuso artists, of different backgrounds, age, newbies and the more experienced ones in the entertainment business.
He likens these artists to: “You know, Filipino actors are like the salt of the earth, they are grounded, no pretentions, very attuned and connected to their emotions. They are not afraid of themselves, of their humanity and their feelings,” he says.
“They are too humble. You know, there is a fine line between humble and being subordinate. Humble does not mean subservience, when that lines get blur, I have to work with ego development,” Bova shares his opinion on the only flaw he sees in local talents.
Does he believe that there are bad actors? Bova responds quickly, “Great question. We react on situations and instances uniquely. We are affected differently by circumanstances, your biggest weapon is your unique self. For those who believe they are bad actors, please take that away from your thoughts as that will stunt your growth. You are building your own block. In acting, what is most important is showing to the world who you are. When you show to the world your vulnerability, more rewards way because of your honesty and openness. ”
Benjamin Alves, one of the Kapuso network’s leading men enthuses, “I am addicted to learning and you know, it will be disastrous to think or even assume na I am good. What I like most about Anthony, as a teacher, he is so invested on you. He is like a dad na best friend mo, you get jittery when you do the exercises but you do it pa rin because you know, you are not going to be judged. You learn more because he guides you well to uncover the truth.”
Another workshopper, Vaness del Moral avers, “ It is always wonderful to discover new things about yourself and your co-actors. You are learning and with these new knowledge, it excites me to use it when I am given a new character.”
Bova’s training program with GMAAC stars is currently on going and concludes on Aug. 8.