Nyoy Volante as Lola in “Kinky Boots”
I am forever grateful to Nyoy Volante for gamely singing during my parties. He’s so mild-mannered and self-effacing in the flesh, yet he “transforms” when he’s performing onstage.
Nyoy is all set to make his most fabulous transformation to date as Simon/Lola, a transvestite entertainer in Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group’s “Kinky Boots.” Cyndi Lauper’s Tony- and Grammy-winning musical opens on June 30 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati (call 891-9999).
In “Kinky Boots,” Lola’s fortuitous encounter with Charlie (played by Laurence Mossman) helps save a shoe factory, which is in dire financial straits, by producing erotic footwear. So, make way for Ms. Nyoytiful!
Here’s my chat with Nyoy:
What’s the most challenging part of portraying a transvestite? It’s physically challenging. Dancing in heels proved to be painful and difficult. Just as difficult was finding the right character. I’d like to believe I’m representing a significant part of the community, so I really want to do that properly. I’m working very hard to achieve that.
What made you accept the role of Lola? I enjoy challenges. Plus, I knew it’d be a great and fun role—and I was right!
What’s your fave song in the musical? “Not My Father’s Son” is a song about not being accepted for who you are and the struggles that come with that. I like the line, “But the best part of me is what he wouldn’t see.”
How do you and your wife resolve disagreements? How do you keep your marriage exciting? We talk fervently and lovingly. We’re always together, but when we don’t have enough time to do that, we call or text each other. Saying “Hello, how are you doing?” is more powerful than most people think.
If you could only sing one song, what would it be? I wrote a song called “This Is My Song,” about an artist who’s ready to show the world what he can do.
If your life story would be made into a musical, what would the title be and who would you want to portray you? “This Is My Song.” It’ll star someone no one has heard of, but will wow them in the end.
The Actors Guild of the Philippines led by its president, Imelda Papin, is spearheading the concert, “A Night with the Stars,” a star-studded fundraising project for the benefit of its senior citizens, on June 3 at the Skydome of SM North Edsa.
To be sung during the show is the guild’s new theme song, “Artista.” Other projects lined up by the group include a medical mission, a cooperative and a sports fest to be headed by Robin Padilla. Star-rific!