Getting closer to their dreams

MANILA, Philippines - Whenever neighbors in her Las Piñas community ring the doorbell to request for a photo with her, Frencheska Farr, winner of GMA 7’s Are You the Next Big Star? is reminded that she is no longer just another 17-year-old with big dreams.

From among an initial 10,000 applicants aspiring for stardom through the GMA production, only 151 were chosen to go on-air singing auditions. The number was pruned down further to 40 last May which marked the beginning of her memorable metamorphosis. After extensive coaching in voice, performance, grooming and even table manners, Frencheska emerged the winner in the female category alongside Geoff Taylor, 23, who bagged the top award in the male category. Just as thrilled about her victory, her neighbors seem to be claiming their time with her before she gets swallowed up by the many engagements demanded of a rising performer.

Today both Frencheska and Geoff look forward to a singing career banking on the prizes each received. Among these were an exclusive management contract with GMA Artist Center, a recording contract with GMA Records, a build-up package including regular guestings in top shows, P1-M in cash and a studio unit at Avida Towers New Manila to further ensure a bright future.

They recently signed documents at Avida’s office that certified their ownership of these units. Leo Montenegro, Avida president wished them good luck and assured them that their units would serve them well and provide comfort and security for a long time to come.

Geoff particularly appreciates the Avida unit that will be turned over to him. The pleasant, unassuming singer who has an American father relates that he is originally from Cagayan Valley. The unit which is centrally located in Santolan Road in Quezon City will be his first very own home in Metro Manila. It will only be a short ride from GMA, as well as a number of shopping centers, schools and recreation areas.

Geoff recalls that when he and the rest of the final contenders of Next Big Star taped a segment at Avida Towers New Manila, he claimed in jest that the unit would be his. That brand of confidence untainted by brashness is typically Geoff, according to his GMA bosses. They relate that he and Frencheska consistently projected self-assurance throughout the competition. “Confidence, after all, is a key ingredient of the X-factor,” said a GMA executive, referring to that quality of stars that make them electrifying onstage.

Both admit they weren’t born stars. Frencheska recalls that before the contest she confined herself only to ballads, her preferred genre even in grade school at St. Paul’s Parañaque where she enjoyed competing in talent shows. She didn’t think she could dance. “Pa-sway-sway lang,” she smiles.