Ricky Davao, in character

DAVAO. Has learned what it takes to be a good actor.

DURING HIS teen years, the very good-looking Ricky Davao told his manager to package him as a hearthrob in the mold of Gabby Concepcion.

It never happened.

Viva executives saw how effective Ricky was at playing antiheroes—so, he was kept busy doing supporting roles that required him to essay characters he felt uncomfortable with.

But, working with the late director Lino Brocka and appearing in stage plays opened his eyes to what acting is all about. He ended up feeling fulfilled to be recognized simply as a serious actor.

One of the things Ricky learned when portraying a role is to always be “in character.” He recalls: “I remember playing a Franciscan friar onstage and fully absorbing the part. I didn’t take a bath for a month—and it added credibility to my performance!”

To this day, as Ricky rehearses for his latest stage outing, the “DOM” musical opening next month at Music Museum, he remembers what Brocka told him about becoming a good actor: “To become one, you must be a good person!”