Last year, I was just a girl with a pixie cut and thunder thighs, taking as much classes under Lebran DFX (both the dance fitness and technique classes in Latin and standard ballroom) that I can (and sometimes even cannot) afford, out of fascination and recreation.
I envied the scholars because they were so talented in their craft. I wanted to be like them so much that I wanted to be around them all the time, and ended up doing so when I momentarily trained with them for a syllabus ballroom competition.
Exactly a year ago today, I was called to stay after class, and to my surprise I was introduced as a new scholar under Lebran. I got the privilege to attend all the classes I wanted. I was exposed to how hard these young scholars train. They paired up with the paying students as partners in the technique classes, and even took turns leading the Lebran classes in preparation for them to teach their own classes. It impressed me that these kids would prefer to come to the studio instead of spending their time sitting idly at home during the summer vacation.
One big challenge for me as new scholar back then was that even though I was still kind of behind in terms of technique, I even got to learn the man's part of any dance the students had to learn whenever there was a shortage of male scholars for the class. I had to step up and dance the man's part to serve as a partner for the paying female students. It actually gave me a good advantage of learning the steps of the dances, because I got to learn the steps for both the man and woman's part.
Apart from Latin and standard ballroom, we also got to learn other dances as we prep up for shows. So far, I had also learned a few cultural folk dances, contemporary jazz, and even Polynesian and Tahitian dances.
I was also introduced to the business side of Lebran. I learned how the core group worked together to keep the business flowing smoothly and keep things running like clockwork.
One thing very unique about the Lebran family is that our training is very holistic. Saturdays after the usual morning Lebran class is focused on our own training apart from the students' classes. Other than dance training, one of our mentors gives us lectures on personality development. I'm so grateful for this rare privilege to have quality dance training while still keeping our attitudes in check as we learn to be not just good dancers, but great dancers and teachers as well. Believe it, we also had to take and pass certification exams before we were allowed to teach a Lebran class as a Shaper (which is what we call our teachers).
Amazing how passion and dedication can take you where you want. Last year, I was just an aspiring dancer and student who was being teased for my huge thighs. Today, I am now one of the pioneer members of Lebran and a certified Lebran Shaper.
I'm forever grateful for all the opportunities that had come ever since I was taken in by the Lebran team that I now consider a family. I feel so blessed to have mentors like Sir Brando and Mommy Val, along with our other teachers like Teacher Belinda and Kuya Mauw, who encourage us to keep doing our best, to never rest on our laurels, and to keep setting the bar higher. I feel like so much has changed and improved in my life in the span of one year, thanks to them and as well as my fellow core group members and scholars. All of them had taught me in their own way, how to be a better person than I was before.
Lebran isn't just about dancing and exercise. It's a way of life. It's a sign of hope. It's a source of inspiration. It's where passion fuels the goals that can change and improve your life in so many aspects. I thought the scholars were merely there for the training. Yes, but we are being trained, but not just to be dance instructors, but to be great dance teachers, coaches, to be masters of our core-giftedness, and to be inspirations to each and every person who wants to get in shape. Lebran's 3-faceted advocacy (Exercise, Enhance, and Empower) rings true, and I have been witness to that.
Get in shape. Shape a life. Dance Lebran. It will be one of the best choices you will ever make for yourself.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Attending Rep's NOISES OFF press preview.
I still cannot believe that it's been 3 months since I last wrote here. And how appropriate that I'm back to writing, and writing about theater, no less. And as an added bonus, it's about one of my favorite plays that I've read!
Ever since I watched Noises Off (the film version, not the theatrical version), I was craving to read it, and to watch it staged live. It truly is one very VERY relatable play if you're in the world of theater. I remember literally slapping my knee and rolling on the floor with laughter when it came to a crucial part in the film where, literally, there were no noises offstage, or backstage, for that matter, which is where the title of the play came from.
I was coming from an evening dance fitness class before the preview show, and I had so little time to freshen up, change clothes and look decent before I had to rush to Onstage theater in Greenbelt.
I was so excited to see the set upon entering the theater, but the curtains were drawn over most of the stage. I was excited because the set was one big factor in this play. You'll find out why soon enough.
The show starts out with Frances Makil-Ignacio going onstage to answer a phone call. The scene goes on, and after a while, to people's surprise, she drops character and talks to herself, muttering confused stage directions. Then suddenly a loud booming voice from offstage--from somewhere inside the auditorium--gives her the correct stage directions. It's the director of the play-within-a-play, played by Chinggoy Alonso. Yes, my dears, this is a play within a play.
Noises Off tackles the hilarious drama and mishaps of life in the theater during its hectic and crazy production runs. You'll realize how crazy tech week can be, the pressure and the crunch time just to pull off a good show for the audience before the curtain rises on opening night. And of course, you can't miss out on actors' personal dramas with other people, especially with their co-actors and other members of the company. Believe me, coming from a firsthand experience, you wouldn't want to miss out on those.
Each of the cast of characters have their own quirks and issues, and they're greatly expressed all throughout the show, at first somewhat discreetly, but as the play progresses and issues heat up, what you'll see is backstage chaos, but of course, "noises off!"
One thing that sets this play apart is that for the second act, its entire set turns around 180 degrees to show the backstage part of the play-within-a-play's set. Once the backstage is revealed, so is the craziness and chaos (sometimes organized, and sometimes just downright ridiculous) that comes with it. Wait for the third act, and the set turns back around again.
I seriously recommend that you guys watch this play. You won't regret it. If you're a theater person, you'll also relate to the quiet chaos that you'll see emerge during Act 2. It's delightfully funny and you'll tire out of laughter. Sometimes you'll even attempt to control your laughs as if you're also backstage with them.
Noises Off runs from March 28 until April 13, then from April 25 to 27, 2014 at the Onstage theater in Greenbelt 1, Makati.
Tickets are conveniently available through Ticketworld at 891-9999, or www.ticketworld.com.ph.
Ever since I watched Noises Off (the film version, not the theatrical version), I was craving to read it, and to watch it staged live. It truly is one very VERY relatable play if you're in the world of theater. I remember literally slapping my knee and rolling on the floor with laughter when it came to a crucial part in the film where, literally, there were no noises offstage, or backstage, for that matter, which is where the title of the play came from.
I was coming from an evening dance fitness class before the preview show, and I had so little time to freshen up, change clothes and look decent before I had to rush to Onstage theater in Greenbelt.
I was so excited to see the set upon entering the theater, but the curtains were drawn over most of the stage. I was excited because the set was one big factor in this play. You'll find out why soon enough.
The show starts out with Frances Makil-Ignacio going onstage to answer a phone call. The scene goes on, and after a while, to people's surprise, she drops character and talks to herself, muttering confused stage directions. Then suddenly a loud booming voice from offstage--from somewhere inside the auditorium--gives her the correct stage directions. It's the director of the play-within-a-play, played by Chinggoy Alonso. Yes, my dears, this is a play within a play.
Noises Off tackles the hilarious drama and mishaps of life in the theater during its hectic and crazy production runs. You'll realize how crazy tech week can be, the pressure and the crunch time just to pull off a good show for the audience before the curtain rises on opening night. And of course, you can't miss out on actors' personal dramas with other people, especially with their co-actors and other members of the company. Believe me, coming from a firsthand experience, you wouldn't want to miss out on those.
Each of the cast of characters have their own quirks and issues, and they're greatly expressed all throughout the show, at first somewhat discreetly, but as the play progresses and issues heat up, what you'll see is backstage chaos, but of course, "noises off!"
One thing that sets this play apart is that for the second act, its entire set turns around 180 degrees to show the backstage part of the play-within-a-play's set. Once the backstage is revealed, so is the craziness and chaos (sometimes organized, and sometimes just downright ridiculous) that comes with it. Wait for the third act, and the set turns back around again.
I seriously recommend that you guys watch this play. You won't regret it. If you're a theater person, you'll also relate to the quiet chaos that you'll see emerge during Act 2. It's delightfully funny and you'll tire out of laughter. Sometimes you'll even attempt to control your laughs as if you're also backstage with them.
Noises Off runs from March 28 until April 13, then from April 25 to 27, 2014 at the Onstage theater in Greenbelt 1, Makati.
Tickets are conveniently available through Ticketworld at 891-9999, or www.ticketworld.com.ph.
Repertory Philippines' NOISES OFF
First off, here's a press release and cast announcement of Rep's Noises Off. I got the opportunity to come to the press preview last March 27, Thursday. My experience at the preview to follow.
“NOISES OFF” TAKES OFF ! --- SET TO OPEN MARCH 28
Repertory Philippines
proudly presents the hilarious ‘Noises Off’, the third offering for its 77th
season.
Written in 1982 by English playwright Michael Frayn,
Noises Off—a stage term indicating sounds coming from offstage—is a play within
a play, the story of a temperamental director and a troupe of hapless
performers putting up a silly sex farce called Nothing On.
The
present production of Noises Off, which is directed by Miguel V. Faustmann, runs
from March 28 to April 13 and from April 25 to April 27, 2014 at Onstage, 2/F,
Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas corner Legazpi St., Makati City.
The idea for Noises Off came to Frayn while he was watching
one of his other plays, The Two of Us, from the wings. Noting that it was “funnier
from behind than in front,” he was inspired to create a one-act play called
Exits, which he later expanded into what would become Noises Off.
Repertory
Philippines
has assembled a stellar cast for the current production, most of whom play
actors playing roles in the fictitious play Nothing On.
Veteran
performer CHINGGOY ALONSO plays Lloyd Dallas, the director of the play-within-a-play.
The
role of forgetful actress Dotty Otley, who plays housekeeper Mrs. Clackett, is assayed
by FRANCES MAKIL IGNACIO.
Returning
to Rep after many years away, PAUL HOLME takes on the role of alcoholic stage
veteran Selsdon Mowbray, who in turn plays a burglar.
Another
erstwhile Rep regular, SHIELA VALDERRAMA-MARTINEZ,
plays cheerful actress Belinda Blair, who plays Flavia Brent.
Shiela’s
real-life husband LORENZ MARTINEZ,
another Rep stalwart, takes on the role of Garry Lejeune, who takes on the role
of Roger Tramplemain.
CARLA
GUEVARA-LAFORTEZA, yet another returning Repper, plays Brooke Ashton, who plays
a sexpot named Vicki.
GERARD
SISON assays the role of actor Frederick Fellowes, who plays Flavia’s husband
Philip Brent, the owner of the house in which the play-within-a-play is set.
The
backstage staff of the fictitious show is composed of PEACHY ATILANO’s Poppy
Norton-Taylor (the show’s assistant stage manager) and NIKO DANS’s Tim Allgood
(the company stage manager). Both Poppy and Tim understudy various roles in
Nothing On.
The unique humor of Noises Off comes from the intricacies
of plot and character interwoven with the personalities of the actors and the
show they’re trying to perform. Respected New York Times critic Frank Rich
called it “the funniest play written in my lifetime,” and now is your chance to
see why.
For
details of the show, you may contact us in the following ways:
By
phone: 843-3570 or 555-0082 (UPDATED OFFICE NUMBERS)
By e-mail: shows@repertoryphilippines.com
By
Internet: http://www.repertoryphilippines.com
NOTE: The Repertory Philippines office has changed locations from
Ortigas to Makati.
Our new address is Unit 13 and 14 Ecoville, Executive Townhouses, Metropolitan Avenue, Makati.
Tickets
are available through Ticketworld at 891-9999, or via
http://www.ticketworld.com.ph/
Connect
to Repertory Philippines
online through the following social media networks:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/repertoryphilippines
Twitter: www.twitter.com/repphils
Instagram: www.instagram.com/repphils
YouTube: www.youtube.com/repphils
Repertory
Philippines would like to thank the following media partners and establishments
for their support: Broadwayworld.com, ClickTheCity.com, Radio Republic, WhenInManila.com,
BusinessWorld, Lane Moving and Storage, Herword.com, Ticketworld.com, Solar News, Raintree
Restaurants (Mr. Jones, Kabila, MOMO Café, and Museum Café), Greenbelt, Ayala
Malls, and Lightshapers.
“NOISES
OFF” was first presented, by special arrangement with Michael Cordon, at the
Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, on February 23rd, 1982, and on March 31st
by Michael Cordron at the Savoy Theatre, London.
“NOISES OFF” is
presented by special arrangement with United Agents LLP.
See
you at the theater!
Monday, December 30, 2013
2013 retrospective.
It's nearing the end of another year, so it's high time for another year-end post. And yes, I know I've been quite the blogging delinquent these past few months, but please let me make it up to you as I sum up the year 2013.
January
I was well into taking both Lebran dance fitness and their technique classes as well, after having endured a medals exam the month before. I was already taking both Latin and standard ballroom, and to my surprise, I was told that I didn't have to pay for the extra classes that I was attending in the evening.
I also took a brief return trip to acting this month, as a few young friends from school got me to act for a thesis film. It was a great opportunity to see if I can still act, and it was pretty emotionally and physically challenging for me. But I actually did it, so a good pat on the back there.
It was this month when I also realized that when I like someone, the most simple gestures win me over, and my katorpehan moments began once again. How teeny-bopper of me.
February
After one 2-hour standard ballroom class in the evening, I was encouraged by Teacher B to join PDTA's 2nd syllabus competition, with Myrone as my partner. I was thrilled, but also overwhelmed and anxious because I only had 3 weeks to train under her and Myrone. Despite the fact that I had so little confidence in my technique, I was grateful for that opportunity as Teacher B had waived her professional fee for our training, and I got to learn so much from her and my partner.
I was still being smitten by that guy, especially since we were spending so much time together, but I was still afraid to admit anything to anyone.
March
The main highlight of this month was joining PDTA's Syllabus Competition. 3 weeks of training, hard work, polishing, peppered with some bickering with my partner was put to the test on the dance floor. We ended up placing 4th both in the waltz (4th out of 6 couples) and the tango (4th out of 4). Well, not bad for my first ever competition, with only 3 weeks of training. I told myself that I can easily set the bar higher for next time.
April
As I was still smitten over the same guy, I had summed up the courage to tell him that I liked him. And for the second time in a row, I immediately got friendzoned, hahaha. What was good about it was nothing really felt awkward, even when we saw each other and went out together on our own a few days after I told him. He never made me feel awkward at all, actually, and made sure we stayed good friends as we were in constant communication and company of each other. With that, I considered him one of my best friends.
This was also the time when I became a scholar under Lebran. It was a big weight off my shoulders to not have to pay for any of my classes anymore. I started attending classes everyday, and even got to learn the man's part in certain classes when there weren't enough male scholars available. I also became part of the core group, which was mainly comprised of Sir Brando, Mommy Val, Myrone, and me. Pretty overwhelming for a brand new scholar who was new to the business, but I took it as a challenge.
May
Most of this month was dedicated to preparing for the I-Dance show, called Step Up To Freedom. Other than Latin and standard ballroom routines, we learned how to dance the Polynesian hula, plus a few cultural folk dances. It was actually fun learning dances from different genres. And even though I wasn't dancing in some numbers, I still got to learn them as I always got to stand in whenever someone was absent.
June
This month's highlight was Step Up To Freedom. It was my first ever real show as a dancer, and despite the late nights we had rehearsing for the show, I still had so much fun.
July
This month marked the beginning of the more challenging half of the year. Due to certain circumstances, I somewhat ruined the friendship I had forged with my best friend on the team. When he started liking someone else, I felt I was being pushed away without meaning to, though I knew he was being careful with his actions toward everyone, including me. It was somewhat my fault for holding on a bit too close to something I could never get. This was also when I got the chance to talk with Mommy Val (for a full day, no less!) about what I was feeling toward the situation, plus we also got to talk about my life's direction, as to where I'm now headed. I loved all her advice, as it was my first time ever to actually have a decent heart-to-heart talk with her.
August
This month gave way to more challenges for myself. Other than our regular classes, we were also attending a contemporary jazz class under Sir Roy. I had to learn to face my fears of heights and falling in the least amount of time during his classes, and it felt great to pull off what he was teaching us while conquering these fears.
After another counseling session with Mommy Val, I was encouraged to take the first ever Lebran teachers' certification exam along with a bunch of the other scholars who were already tenured in teaching Lebran. After practicing a few times, I went with it, and actually passed the exam.
I told myself that everyday is a new challenge, and with every milestone I reach is a little victory for myself.
September
Mostly focused on building my confidence in teaching this month. Lebran had opened up more venues other than in Makati Cinema Square, so we had to be more organized in dispatching the teachers in the different venues. I sometimes had to learn to teach a class on my own, which was another accomplishment for me.
I was also named one of the top agents in our part-time account in CVG, and one of the perks we got was an outing to Fontana Resort in Pampanga. I got to spend 2 days with my fellow part-time agents, and it was a good opportunity to bond with my friends plus the other agents that I don't usually interact with.
October
Because Lebran has no other way to go but up, we were also on our way to having an official website. To make things special, we decided to make it into an event, so we were prepping up for that. We made arrangements for everything--the venue, the program, the dance repertoire itself, etcetera.
The challenge we had to endure this month was that we were one teacher down. In the middle of the month, Myrone got primary spontaneous pneumothorax and had to be rushed to the hospital. Because he underwent an operation and needed 6 weeks to heal, we had to fix everyone's schedules again for others to take over his classes. We were lucky enough to have new trainees so male partners in technique classes weren't much of a problem.
I was pretty grateful that he was immediately out of the woods. It did take a while, though, for him to return to classes.
And somehow, after things were good again before this month, we started fighting again due to my clingy nature, and it felt like I was losing my best friend in him all over again.
November
This month was mostly focused on preparing for Lebran's first ever big event. It served 3 purposes--to launch the official Lebran website, to introduce its pool of newly-certified teachers called the Lebran Shapers, and to showcase the students in a mini-recital. Everyday was busy day.
Of course, there were some things that some (or most) people have noticed, so we had to learn to talk and settle certain issues, even if just for the sake of the team, and for the sake of the upcoming event. And of course, for the sake of ourselves, even though I already knew that things will never be the same again.
Near the end of the month gave way to a new challenge, which was learning to choose between doing the right thing for everyone, and doing the thing that most people deem favorable. I learned that in empowering and disciplining the younger scholars may cost a lot, especially if you make one stupid move, such being their least favorite person, to the point that the team was noticeably divided and some of them were not speaking to me at all in anger.
December
The big event of the month was when Kuya Bryan got married to Joan. We had to travel all the way to Alaminos, Pangasinan for the wedding. When I was first invited to the wedding (several times, by different people, no less), I was looking forward to it. But due to certain things that had happened, I was having second thoughts about going, knowing that after what had happened before the month began, things and people will be making things awkward for me. But I still went, nonetheless, because it was mainly for Kuya Bryan and Joan's special day.
I was trying my best efforts to resolve things, but I knew that things won't improve unless both parties make the effort, so I decided to just say my piece for one last time and leave the ball in their court. And the timing couldn't be better. Beginning on the first hour of my birthday, things were starting to look up. And it also helped a lot that I had my one-on-one counseling session with Mommy Val and Sir Brando on the exact day of my birthday. I learned a lot about myself, plus what I needed to improve in in the upcoming year, and what better time to start with all new changes after that talk.
In one year-end post, I wrote down quotable quotes that made my year that time. In another, I posted photos of highlights from that year. I thought I'd do something different for this entry.
Mommy Val always reiterated that we should always be grateful--for the people we encounter, for every challenge God gives us, and for the small victories we make when we surpass these hurdles we come across. So I'd like to acknowledge the people that I've learned so much from this year.
First, of course, is Mommy Val. Even when I was still a paying student, she always imparts so much wisdom and knowledge, not just for me, but for the other scholars and the rest of the people in our Lebran family. She always helps us keep our feet on the ground and our attitudes in check. She knows the right thing to say, and always tells us what we need to hear, not what we want to hear. I look up to her not just as a mentor but also as a mother, and I'm glad she always has our backs, I sure do hope I get to be as good a mentor and mother as her.
Of course, there's also Sir Brando. I admire his patience and his selflessness in training us, and giving us all the best training we could have. He also taught us that the learning is always continuous, that we never stop learning, even him. Teachability is a big factor in becoming a great teacher, and we all learn from each other.
I have to include Myrone for this. He was the first friend I became close with in Lebran, even when I was still a paying student. I learned a lot from him beginning from when he became my one-time partner for competition. I also look up to him for his patience, for knowing when to be serious for work and when to wack out. He's pretty mature for his age, and I admire him for that. He's quite the gentleman, and hates having to hurt anyone, so I understand when he chooses to be quiet whenever I insist on talking when we fight or merely disagree. He may not know this, but he became my voice of reason when I act immature or do something out of line. Which was why I considered him my best friend on the team, though he may not think the same of me. I don't know if we could be better friends again after everything that had happened, but for now, I'm just grateful for the friendship we once had.
Abby is like a sister I grew to love. Another person who's wise beyond her years, I admire her for her spunk and her talent. Every bonding moment with her is never boring, and she became my confidante in so many ways.
Meeting Ags wasn't pure coincidence. I knew there had to be a reason why I met her. Despite her young age, I do believe she's more mature than I am in more ways than one. During the times when we were in constant communication with each other, I sometimes feel sorry for her whenever I would rant, especially about people who are are both close to our hearts. Her patience is immeasurable, and her understanding as well. I learned a lot from her, especially with her tact, understanding, honesty, and trustworthiness. Even though she once told me to fight for what I may think is supposedly mine, I think it was still a decent choice for me not to do so, for the sake of someone's choice. After everything she's been going through, I'm glad she's somewhat happier now, and she deserves it.
I cannot exclude Kuya Bryan from this list. Even if it was just for a time, his advice in his long text messages really struck me hard. He is another person who puts it bluntly, but the sound advice he gives still gives you a somewhat soothing and comforting effect.
There are still so many people I'm grateful for this year, but these people are the one who gave so much impact. 2013 was a very challenging year for me to shape up in terms of physical and in terms of my attitude, and these people helped me with that. Thank you, and I love you guys for being there.
"So many changes in one year... wonder what next year will bring." - Brett, Children's Letters to God.
I bid 2013 a farewell with a happy heart, and move on. With this, I'm excited to begin the new year with new opportunities and new adventures.
April
As I was still smitten over the same guy, I had summed up the courage to tell him that I liked him. And for the second time in a row, I immediately got friendzoned, hahaha. What was good about it was nothing really felt awkward, even when we saw each other and went out together on our own a few days after I told him. He never made me feel awkward at all, actually, and made sure we stayed good friends as we were in constant communication and company of each other. With that, I considered him one of my best friends.
This was also the time when I became a scholar under Lebran. It was a big weight off my shoulders to not have to pay for any of my classes anymore. I started attending classes everyday, and even got to learn the man's part in certain classes when there weren't enough male scholars available. I also became part of the core group, which was mainly comprised of Sir Brando, Mommy Val, Myrone, and me. Pretty overwhelming for a brand new scholar who was new to the business, but I took it as a challenge.
May
Most of this month was dedicated to preparing for the I-Dance show, called Step Up To Freedom. Other than Latin and standard ballroom routines, we learned how to dance the Polynesian hula, plus a few cultural folk dances. It was actually fun learning dances from different genres. And even though I wasn't dancing in some numbers, I still got to learn them as I always got to stand in whenever someone was absent.
June
This month's highlight was Step Up To Freedom. It was my first ever real show as a dancer, and despite the late nights we had rehearsing for the show, I still had so much fun.
July
This month marked the beginning of the more challenging half of the year. Due to certain circumstances, I somewhat ruined the friendship I had forged with my best friend on the team. When he started liking someone else, I felt I was being pushed away without meaning to, though I knew he was being careful with his actions toward everyone, including me. It was somewhat my fault for holding on a bit too close to something I could never get. This was also when I got the chance to talk with Mommy Val (for a full day, no less!) about what I was feeling toward the situation, plus we also got to talk about my life's direction, as to where I'm now headed. I loved all her advice, as it was my first time ever to actually have a decent heart-to-heart talk with her.
August
This month gave way to more challenges for myself. Other than our regular classes, we were also attending a contemporary jazz class under Sir Roy. I had to learn to face my fears of heights and falling in the least amount of time during his classes, and it felt great to pull off what he was teaching us while conquering these fears.
After another counseling session with Mommy Val, I was encouraged to take the first ever Lebran teachers' certification exam along with a bunch of the other scholars who were already tenured in teaching Lebran. After practicing a few times, I went with it, and actually passed the exam.
I told myself that everyday is a new challenge, and with every milestone I reach is a little victory for myself.
September
Mostly focused on building my confidence in teaching this month. Lebran had opened up more venues other than in Makati Cinema Square, so we had to be more organized in dispatching the teachers in the different venues. I sometimes had to learn to teach a class on my own, which was another accomplishment for me.
I was also named one of the top agents in our part-time account in CVG, and one of the perks we got was an outing to Fontana Resort in Pampanga. I got to spend 2 days with my fellow part-time agents, and it was a good opportunity to bond with my friends plus the other agents that I don't usually interact with.
October
Because Lebran has no other way to go but up, we were also on our way to having an official website. To make things special, we decided to make it into an event, so we were prepping up for that. We made arrangements for everything--the venue, the program, the dance repertoire itself, etcetera.
The challenge we had to endure this month was that we were one teacher down. In the middle of the month, Myrone got primary spontaneous pneumothorax and had to be rushed to the hospital. Because he underwent an operation and needed 6 weeks to heal, we had to fix everyone's schedules again for others to take over his classes. We were lucky enough to have new trainees so male partners in technique classes weren't much of a problem.
I was pretty grateful that he was immediately out of the woods. It did take a while, though, for him to return to classes.
And somehow, after things were good again before this month, we started fighting again due to my clingy nature, and it felt like I was losing my best friend in him all over again.
November
This month was mostly focused on preparing for Lebran's first ever big event. It served 3 purposes--to launch the official Lebran website, to introduce its pool of newly-certified teachers called the Lebran Shapers, and to showcase the students in a mini-recital. Everyday was busy day.
Of course, there were some things that some (or most) people have noticed, so we had to learn to talk and settle certain issues, even if just for the sake of the team, and for the sake of the upcoming event. And of course, for the sake of ourselves, even though I already knew that things will never be the same again.
Near the end of the month gave way to a new challenge, which was learning to choose between doing the right thing for everyone, and doing the thing that most people deem favorable. I learned that in empowering and disciplining the younger scholars may cost a lot, especially if you make one stupid move, such being their least favorite person, to the point that the team was noticeably divided and some of them were not speaking to me at all in anger.
December
The big event of the month was when Kuya Bryan got married to Joan. We had to travel all the way to Alaminos, Pangasinan for the wedding. When I was first invited to the wedding (several times, by different people, no less), I was looking forward to it. But due to certain things that had happened, I was having second thoughts about going, knowing that after what had happened before the month began, things and people will be making things awkward for me. But I still went, nonetheless, because it was mainly for Kuya Bryan and Joan's special day.
I was trying my best efforts to resolve things, but I knew that things won't improve unless both parties make the effort, so I decided to just say my piece for one last time and leave the ball in their court. And the timing couldn't be better. Beginning on the first hour of my birthday, things were starting to look up. And it also helped a lot that I had my one-on-one counseling session with Mommy Val and Sir Brando on the exact day of my birthday. I learned a lot about myself, plus what I needed to improve in in the upcoming year, and what better time to start with all new changes after that talk.
In one year-end post, I wrote down quotable quotes that made my year that time. In another, I posted photos of highlights from that year. I thought I'd do something different for this entry.
Mommy Val always reiterated that we should always be grateful--for the people we encounter, for every challenge God gives us, and for the small victories we make when we surpass these hurdles we come across. So I'd like to acknowledge the people that I've learned so much from this year.
First, of course, is Mommy Val. Even when I was still a paying student, she always imparts so much wisdom and knowledge, not just for me, but for the other scholars and the rest of the people in our Lebran family. She always helps us keep our feet on the ground and our attitudes in check. She knows the right thing to say, and always tells us what we need to hear, not what we want to hear. I look up to her not just as a mentor but also as a mother, and I'm glad she always has our backs, I sure do hope I get to be as good a mentor and mother as her.
Of course, there's also Sir Brando. I admire his patience and his selflessness in training us, and giving us all the best training we could have. He also taught us that the learning is always continuous, that we never stop learning, even him. Teachability is a big factor in becoming a great teacher, and we all learn from each other.
I have to include Myrone for this. He was the first friend I became close with in Lebran, even when I was still a paying student. I learned a lot from him beginning from when he became my one-time partner for competition. I also look up to him for his patience, for knowing when to be serious for work and when to wack out. He's pretty mature for his age, and I admire him for that. He's quite the gentleman, and hates having to hurt anyone, so I understand when he chooses to be quiet whenever I insist on talking when we fight or merely disagree. He may not know this, but he became my voice of reason when I act immature or do something out of line. Which was why I considered him my best friend on the team, though he may not think the same of me. I don't know if we could be better friends again after everything that had happened, but for now, I'm just grateful for the friendship we once had.
Abby is like a sister I grew to love. Another person who's wise beyond her years, I admire her for her spunk and her talent. Every bonding moment with her is never boring, and she became my confidante in so many ways.
Meeting Ags wasn't pure coincidence. I knew there had to be a reason why I met her. Despite her young age, I do believe she's more mature than I am in more ways than one. During the times when we were in constant communication with each other, I sometimes feel sorry for her whenever I would rant, especially about people who are are both close to our hearts. Her patience is immeasurable, and her understanding as well. I learned a lot from her, especially with her tact, understanding, honesty, and trustworthiness. Even though she once told me to fight for what I may think is supposedly mine, I think it was still a decent choice for me not to do so, for the sake of someone's choice. After everything she's been going through, I'm glad she's somewhat happier now, and she deserves it.
I cannot exclude Kuya Bryan from this list. Even if it was just for a time, his advice in his long text messages really struck me hard. He is another person who puts it bluntly, but the sound advice he gives still gives you a somewhat soothing and comforting effect.
There are still so many people I'm grateful for this year, but these people are the one who gave so much impact. 2013 was a very challenging year for me to shape up in terms of physical and in terms of my attitude, and these people helped me with that. Thank you, and I love you guys for being there.
"So many changes in one year... wonder what next year will bring." - Brett, Children's Letters to God.
I bid 2013 a farewell with a happy heart, and move on. With this, I'm excited to begin the new year with new opportunities and new adventures.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
It had already been a year since then? Wow.
My goodness, I never got to blog during the entire month of October. The month had been so crazy, and I will elaborate on that later.
When I looked back at my blog entries from October of last year, I realized that as of October 17th, it had been exactly a year since I attended my first Lebran class. Woah, I can't believe a year had already passed since then. To once again quote the character Brett from Children's Letters to God, "So many changes in one year... Wonder what next year will bring."
How apt for me to be included this year in a pictorial of Lebran Shapers (teachers) a few days after that exact date. It sort of celebrated my first year in Lebran.
It's been a pretty amazing one year for me. Upon the discovery of Lebran, a lot of things had happened and it was due to my perseverance to keep taking classes. OK, I'm not really proud of it, but I managed to attend my first level of classes because of a silent sponsor who was willing to pay for them. In addition to that, I also had to attend the Lebran dance fitness class as well. It took a lot of effort to come up with the money to pay for all those plus my other expenses while just keeping a part-time job. Imagine my surprise when I was allowed to attend the evening classes (I just attend the mornings) without any extra payment because I was told I had potential.
Imagine my surprise even more when I was encouraged to join the syllabus competition alongside the other scholars. Training with them was a great learning experience, as it was a good way to get to know and bond with them.
As surprises go, after helping out at one mini-event, I was suddenly called in one time after a class, and that was when they announced that they finally took me in as a new scholar. It was such a big relief on my part because I didn't have to pay for classes anymore. I could take all the classes I want for free.
Apart from being a scholar, I was also part of the Lebran team's core group alone with Sir Brando, Mommy Val, and Myrone. We are the ones who basically keep the business running smoothly, setting schedules, handling marketing and publicity, etc. When I got counseled by Mommy Val, she advised me to draw up a five-year plan to give my life some direction, then encouraged me to take the Lebran teachers certification exam. And I couldn't believe I actually passed.
Challenges keep coming at every class we attend, especially on my part. Due to scarcity of gentleman scholars that serve as partners for female students, I was tasked to learn the gentleman's part as well to help out. Then because of all the new accounts coming up, our schedules keep getting busier. Every time a Lebran teacher would be late in the morning (well, basically it's just Myrone and Jayson), I would have to fill in, so it was pretty good practice to teach.
The biggest challenge of all was during last month (October). During the middle of the month, Myrone had to be taken to the hospital due to primary spontaneous pneumothorax. With one Lebran teacher down (and our highest earner!) and having a new hectic schedule, we had to move things around. I had to learn to keep at least one class, and we were so glad that there were new male partners being trained, so we didn't have much problem with the technique classes. Thankfully it was also the college students' semestral break, so Abby could fill in for some of the classes that Myrone had. He's finally out of the woods now, and even went straight to our Lebran pictorial once he got out of the hospital. Heck, even though he's not allowed to dance for at least 6 weeks, he's been going out a lot. Crazy man.
So now, we're gearing up for our next big event. This month, on the 24th, Lebran Dance Fitness Experts will be launching its official website. Along with it, we will be introducing our newly-certified Lebran Shapers, plus showcasing our students in a mini-recital. Will keep you guys posted for that one, as we are selling pretty limited tickets.
When I looked back at my blog entries from October of last year, I realized that as of October 17th, it had been exactly a year since I attended my first Lebran class. Woah, I can't believe a year had already passed since then. To once again quote the character Brett from Children's Letters to God, "So many changes in one year... Wonder what next year will bring."
How apt for me to be included this year in a pictorial of Lebran Shapers (teachers) a few days after that exact date. It sort of celebrated my first year in Lebran.
It's been a pretty amazing one year for me. Upon the discovery of Lebran, a lot of things had happened and it was due to my perseverance to keep taking classes. OK, I'm not really proud of it, but I managed to attend my first level of classes because of a silent sponsor who was willing to pay for them. In addition to that, I also had to attend the Lebran dance fitness class as well. It took a lot of effort to come up with the money to pay for all those plus my other expenses while just keeping a part-time job. Imagine my surprise when I was allowed to attend the evening classes (I just attend the mornings) without any extra payment because I was told I had potential.
Imagine my surprise even more when I was encouraged to join the syllabus competition alongside the other scholars. Training with them was a great learning experience, as it was a good way to get to know and bond with them.
As surprises go, after helping out at one mini-event, I was suddenly called in one time after a class, and that was when they announced that they finally took me in as a new scholar. It was such a big relief on my part because I didn't have to pay for classes anymore. I could take all the classes I want for free.
Apart from being a scholar, I was also part of the Lebran team's core group alone with Sir Brando, Mommy Val, and Myrone. We are the ones who basically keep the business running smoothly, setting schedules, handling marketing and publicity, etc. When I got counseled by Mommy Val, she advised me to draw up a five-year plan to give my life some direction, then encouraged me to take the Lebran teachers certification exam. And I couldn't believe I actually passed.
Challenges keep coming at every class we attend, especially on my part. Due to scarcity of gentleman scholars that serve as partners for female students, I was tasked to learn the gentleman's part as well to help out. Then because of all the new accounts coming up, our schedules keep getting busier. Every time a Lebran teacher would be late in the morning (well, basically it's just Myrone and Jayson), I would have to fill in, so it was pretty good practice to teach.
The biggest challenge of all was during last month (October). During the middle of the month, Myrone had to be taken to the hospital due to primary spontaneous pneumothorax. With one Lebran teacher down (and our highest earner!) and having a new hectic schedule, we had to move things around. I had to learn to keep at least one class, and we were so glad that there were new male partners being trained, so we didn't have much problem with the technique classes. Thankfully it was also the college students' semestral break, so Abby could fill in for some of the classes that Myrone had. He's finally out of the woods now, and even went straight to our Lebran pictorial once he got out of the hospital. Heck, even though he's not allowed to dance for at least 6 weeks, he's been going out a lot. Crazy man.
So now, we're gearing up for our next big event. This month, on the 24th, Lebran Dance Fitness Experts will be launching its official website. Along with it, we will be introducing our newly-certified Lebran Shapers, plus showcasing our students in a mini-recital. Will keep you guys posted for that one, as we are selling pretty limited tickets.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
An update before this month ends.
I haven't blogged in almost a month? Wow. Am I that busy? Well, sort of.
So I've been dedicating more time with Lebran these past several weeks. We've expanded and have more venues right now, as we had opened up classes in Metrowalk's Ultimate Fitness Gym, and at the dance studio in one of the residences in South Forbes Park. Aside from keeping our current corporate accounts, we're also trying to get hold of more to expand our client base.
And with that, I keep learning to build my confidence in teaching, after being certified as a Lebran teacher last month. Whenever Myrone or Jayson come in late for their assigned morning classes, I had to learn to cover for them by beginning the class with a few dances, and sometimes I even complete the 1st half of the class. There was even a time when I was challenged to do the entire class when Myrone came in late one morning, and asked me to do the second half as well because his foot was sore. It happened again when he called in sick, so I was tasked to cover for his assigned evening class. I have to admit, I actually surprised myself for somewhat surviving those classes, because there were times when he and Jayson would push me to complete the whole class, but I would always decline, claiming that I'm tired when I'm actually afraid to do the whole thing, afraid to make a mistake.
Leading those classes for the entire full hour was a little victory for me, a good sense of accomplishment, to show that I can actually teach a class on my own without having anyone else to bat for me.
Now that Lebran is expanding, especially with us new certified teachers, we've been wearing "official" vests and jackets for classes. We started small, like purchasing vests and jackets in our corporate colors of blue, fuschia and green, then having the Lebran name embroidered on the back. I ended up getting this pretty hot pink Nike jacket that nearly everyone wanted, plus a nice blue jacket with sequins on them.
One Saturday, during our lecture time, Mommy Val and Sir Brando were telling us about the distribution of jackets and vests among us certified teachers, and someone (I think it was Abby) noticed that I was wearing the pink jacket. Mommy then said that my good attitude was what got me the jacket, because she said that I was very unassuming. While everyone was eyeing the good vests and jackets, including that pink one, I just held back and let everyone pick while I waited what was for me.
I just had to blush when Mommy Val went on about me, telling the entire team that I actually do more than what they think I do, because even during the first Lebran pictorial, I was there helping them out.
In other news, I was one of the top agents that were the "Best of the Best" in our account at CVG. In line with that, we got to go to an overnight outing in Fontana in Clark, Pampanga just this past weekend.
I was glad to have a change of scenery for a while. It didn't really bother me much that it was also raining so much in Pampanga. I actually enjoyed my stay because I got to bond with fellow part-time agents that I don't even get to talk to whenever I'm in the office.
There really wasn't much to do when we were there. After lunch during that first day, we retired to our rooms and just spend the rest of the afternoon holed up inside our villas watching TV. I shared a room with Kat, Mae and Mitch, and because of the lazy rainy weather, we sometimes said out loud that we wish we didn't have to go to the awarding and recognition event that evening. But of course, we still had to dress up and go.
After breakfast the next day was the most eventful, and it wasn't even part of the itinerary. After taking the bus back to our villa, my roomies and I went to the villa where our other fellow CAS agents were staying, and basically just hung out there. We began just by talking, and then when we gathered a small group along with the boys (staying in the next villa), we ended up playing Pinoy Henyo, charades, cards and even hide and seek plus a crazy little relay game. We kept at it until we were told to pack up and get ready to be picked up for check-out.
It was so ironic that the sun started shining when we were leaving Pampanga. The sun stayed until we arrived in Makati, but then eventually gave up and it started raining again by the evening. But at least we still got a few hours of sun during these crazy rainy days.
Back to life again tomorrow. A new month is coming up the day after. I wonder what the new month will bring? We'll see.
So I've been dedicating more time with Lebran these past several weeks. We've expanded and have more venues right now, as we had opened up classes in Metrowalk's Ultimate Fitness Gym, and at the dance studio in one of the residences in South Forbes Park. Aside from keeping our current corporate accounts, we're also trying to get hold of more to expand our client base.
And with that, I keep learning to build my confidence in teaching, after being certified as a Lebran teacher last month. Whenever Myrone or Jayson come in late for their assigned morning classes, I had to learn to cover for them by beginning the class with a few dances, and sometimes I even complete the 1st half of the class. There was even a time when I was challenged to do the entire class when Myrone came in late one morning, and asked me to do the second half as well because his foot was sore. It happened again when he called in sick, so I was tasked to cover for his assigned evening class. I have to admit, I actually surprised myself for somewhat surviving those classes, because there were times when he and Jayson would push me to complete the whole class, but I would always decline, claiming that I'm tired when I'm actually afraid to do the whole thing, afraid to make a mistake.
Leading those classes for the entire full hour was a little victory for me, a good sense of accomplishment, to show that I can actually teach a class on my own without having anyone else to bat for me.
Now that Lebran is expanding, especially with us new certified teachers, we've been wearing "official" vests and jackets for classes. We started small, like purchasing vests and jackets in our corporate colors of blue, fuschia and green, then having the Lebran name embroidered on the back. I ended up getting this pretty hot pink Nike jacket that nearly everyone wanted, plus a nice blue jacket with sequins on them.
One Saturday, during our lecture time, Mommy Val and Sir Brando were telling us about the distribution of jackets and vests among us certified teachers, and someone (I think it was Abby) noticed that I was wearing the pink jacket. Mommy then said that my good attitude was what got me the jacket, because she said that I was very unassuming. While everyone was eyeing the good vests and jackets, including that pink one, I just held back and let everyone pick while I waited what was for me.
I just had to blush when Mommy Val went on about me, telling the entire team that I actually do more than what they think I do, because even during the first Lebran pictorial, I was there helping them out.
In other news, I was one of the top agents that were the "Best of the Best" in our account at CVG. In line with that, we got to go to an overnight outing in Fontana in Clark, Pampanga just this past weekend.
I was glad to have a change of scenery for a while. It didn't really bother me much that it was also raining so much in Pampanga. I actually enjoyed my stay because I got to bond with fellow part-time agents that I don't even get to talk to whenever I'm in the office.
There really wasn't much to do when we were there. After lunch during that first day, we retired to our rooms and just spend the rest of the afternoon holed up inside our villas watching TV. I shared a room with Kat, Mae and Mitch, and because of the lazy rainy weather, we sometimes said out loud that we wish we didn't have to go to the awarding and recognition event that evening. But of course, we still had to dress up and go.
After breakfast the next day was the most eventful, and it wasn't even part of the itinerary. After taking the bus back to our villa, my roomies and I went to the villa where our other fellow CAS agents were staying, and basically just hung out there. We began just by talking, and then when we gathered a small group along with the boys (staying in the next villa), we ended up playing Pinoy Henyo, charades, cards and even hide and seek plus a crazy little relay game. We kept at it until we were told to pack up and get ready to be picked up for check-out.
It was so ironic that the sun started shining when we were leaving Pampanga. The sun stayed until we arrived in Makati, but then eventually gave up and it started raining again by the evening. But at least we still got a few hours of sun during these crazy rainy days.
Back to life again tomorrow. A new month is coming up the day after. I wonder what the new month will bring? We'll see.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
I needed this.
Late yesterday afternoon, I received a phone call from Nicco. We had a short and brief text exchange earlier that afternoon when I had asked how he was, and I was surprised that he called me.
Knowing Nicco, I wasn't surprised that he would go on and on about himself when I had simply asked about the recent goings-on in his life. What surprised me was that he eagerly listened when I told him about my own updates. We haven't seen each other in almost 2 years (yes, believe it, baby bro), so I told him about the latest, especially about the big change in my life, which was quitting theater to pursue dancing, something that I was actually not at all confident doing. About having to face someone everyday despite certain given circumstances, plus having to face not just one, but three of my fears in just one day.
When I was done telling him all of that, Nicco had told me, "Kailangan mo rin yan eh." ("You needed that.") At first, I didn't really quite understand it. What even made him say that? I mean, we haven't hung out in ages, so how would he think that I needed to do this?
Nicco then explained that I needed this because I was always doing things where I'm always comfortable, and I'm always playing it safe, afraid to take risks and face my fears. He said that he didn't think that I was completely happy with anything that I was doing back then when I was still in theater. Dancing was something I always felt like I couldn't do as well as others, until I decided to pursue ballroom. And judging from the photos and posts I made that he had seen, it was those moments when I was completely happy with what I was doing.
I was so surprised when he said that, because upon realization, Nicco was actually right. I learned to take risks, and even face my fears. I was amazed how he was so spot on, how he knows me, probably even more than I do myself, that I welled up with tears right there outside the studio while I was talking to him on the phone.
After that phone conversation, I learned how to appreciate my friends even more. It's the way they just know a person, regardless of how often you see and communicate with each other. And they always tell you as it is, no sugar coating necessary, telling you what you need to hear instead of what you want to hear.
Knowing Nicco, I wasn't surprised that he would go on and on about himself when I had simply asked about the recent goings-on in his life. What surprised me was that he eagerly listened when I told him about my own updates. We haven't seen each other in almost 2 years (yes, believe it, baby bro), so I told him about the latest, especially about the big change in my life, which was quitting theater to pursue dancing, something that I was actually not at all confident doing. About having to face someone everyday despite certain given circumstances, plus having to face not just one, but three of my fears in just one day.
When I was done telling him all of that, Nicco had told me, "Kailangan mo rin yan eh." ("You needed that.") At first, I didn't really quite understand it. What even made him say that? I mean, we haven't hung out in ages, so how would he think that I needed to do this?
Nicco then explained that I needed this because I was always doing things where I'm always comfortable, and I'm always playing it safe, afraid to take risks and face my fears. He said that he didn't think that I was completely happy with anything that I was doing back then when I was still in theater. Dancing was something I always felt like I couldn't do as well as others, until I decided to pursue ballroom. And judging from the photos and posts I made that he had seen, it was those moments when I was completely happy with what I was doing.
I was so surprised when he said that, because upon realization, Nicco was actually right. I learned to take risks, and even face my fears. I was amazed how he was so spot on, how he knows me, probably even more than I do myself, that I welled up with tears right there outside the studio while I was talking to him on the phone.
After that phone conversation, I learned how to appreciate my friends even more. It's the way they just know a person, regardless of how often you see and communicate with each other. And they always tell you as it is, no sugar coating necessary, telling you what you need to hear instead of what you want to hear.
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