Joanna’s wish after ‘Larawan’

Joanna Ampil

Theater diva Joanna Ampil marked a career high with her best actress win at the recent Gawad Urian.

It was Joanna’s fifth acting trophy for her big-screen debut, playing the iconic spinster Candida in Loy Arcenas’ “Ang Larawan.” She had previously bagged top honors at the Metro Manila Film Festival, Pasado, Star and Box Office Entertainment Awards.

“It came as a surprise to me because there were 11 actresses nominated in the same category,” she told the Inquirer. “I’ve not seen all the movies, but I’m familiar with some of their previous works.”

That the recognition was a fulfillment of her director’s wish made it even more special.

“Many months back, while I was in a car with Loy… he mentioned wanting me to win an Urian,” she recalled. “I also feel that this award somehow defines an actor. It’s given me more of a profile… [beyond] my association with theater, particularly with ‘Miss Saigon.’”

Urian heralds a turning point for this stage veteran and movie newcomer.

“It has always been my goal to perform for my country and it may have been the first, but it’s a film that’s been embraced wholeheartedly by Filipinos,” she said.

“Ang Larawan” will hopefully lead to more proudly Filipino projects for the West End star.

“My wish is to contribute more to the arts in the Philippines—may it be through straight plays, more musicals, television shows or movies,” she remarked.—BAYANI SAN DIEGO JR.