Vina tries theater

MANILA, Philippines - Vina Morales is considered by many as an entertainment industry veteran. Having spent over 20 years in the business, Vina has done nearly everything.

She began her career at 10 when she was discovered in a singing contest in Cebu. She was brought to Manila and started to act in movies as a pre-teen, hoping to follow in the footsteps of her idol, Sharon Cuneta.

Vina continued to make movies and record albums. She was paired with several leading men, and her hit movies certified her as a teen idol.

Vina was also part of That’s Entertainment, where she honed her singing and dancing. It was at this point that people started to notice that she was not just another pretty face with some talent. She really had talent.

Before she hit 30, Vina was already recognized as a triple threat. Many celebrities can claim they can sing, dance or act. But not all can say that they can do it very well. She has established herself in the drama field, while her concert performances here and abroad are anticipated for their production numbers.

Vina has had a long courtship with theater, so to speak. She has received invitations to audition for roles in the past, but never seemed to have the courage to do so. It was perhaps the fear of not doing well. In an interview, Vina said, “To me, theater is like acting without a take two.”

But Vina has now taken the theater plunge, taking on the female lead role in Atlantis Productions’ Rock of Ages. The musical is “a hilarious, feel-good love story told through such ’80s hit anthems like I Want To Know What Love Is, Don’t Stop Believein’, We Built This City, Hit Me With Your Best Shot and Every Rose Has Its Thorn.“

Vina is Sherrie, a small-town girl who goes to L.A. to pursue her dreams of being an actress. Joining Vina are MiG Ayesa and Nyoy Volante.

For her role, Vina prepared by engaging in a weight-loss program. She has always been fit, but now looks leaner to be more convincing in her role as a stripper.

Since doing Rock of Ages entailed months of preparation, Vina had to give up other projects. She turned down a teleserye and offers to perform here and abroad. But regrets, she has none, as she’s fulfilling one of her biggest dreams as an artist. 

Rock of Ages is directed by Chari Arespacochaga and will run until July 8 at the Carlos P. Romulo Theater, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.