What a way to celebrate one's birthday!
Former Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Vice-President and Artistic Director Chris Millado was truly an epitome of professionalism and commitment to the arts.
While he was anticipating the eve of his birthday, Chris was preparing for a marathon practice of this musical play, "Contra Mundum, Ang Larawan the Concert," an offshoot of the musical film "Ang Larawan," an adaptation from National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin's literary play "Portrait of the Artist as Filipino."
As soon as Millado's birthday approached he saw himself at the Metropolitan Theater for the rehearsal of the play.
Yes, he was greeted by the whole production staff and creative team which he acknowledged but what was more important was work.
Chris didn't mind skipping the celebration of his birthday as long as he was in control of the creative process of the musical which shows the painstaking collaboration of two other National Artists, namely Ryan Cayabyab for Music as conductor of the Philippine Philarmonic Orchestra (PPO); Alice Reyes for Dance as choreographer and posthumously Joaquin.
It's enough that he has as director the impressive lineup of performers like Rachel Alejandro, Karylle Tatlonghari, Jericho Rosales, Paulo Avelino, Dulce, Celeste Legaspi, Bea Alonzo, among others.
“My heartfelt thanks to family, friends and colleagues who sent birthday greetings. I was in rehearsals on my birthday and couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than being surrounded by great talent and artistry. No one ever retires from art making. Art is long, relentless and nourishing. What a gift! Salamat gid (Thank you very much),” gushed Chris.