It was 39 years ago when I first stepped into the Metropolitan Theater. I was a 19-year-old college student taking up B.S. Psychology Pre-Med and to spice up my humdrum student life, I decided to audition for a role in a joint musical production of Dulaang U.P. and the U.P. Concert Chorus. The musical play was entitled Ms. Philippines, a parody of the Filipinos’ fascination for beauty pageants and the trials contestants undergo to win the coveted crown. I did not sing or dance too well and was surprised I did not only pass the auditions but got three roles: a model, a judge, and a callgirl! They were not major roles but I was honored to be working with esteemed theater director, Tony Mabesa of Dulaang U.P.; Professor Rey Paguio of the U.P. Concert Chorus; Professor Isagani Cruz who wrote the libretto; choreographers Douglas Nierras and Rene Hofileña; and singers and actors Cris Vertido, Dodo Crisol, Nanette Inventor, Bing Pimentel, and U.P. Concert Chorus … [Read more...] about The surprising, inspiring story of how the Met was built