Martin del Rosario shines in theater debut

No less than award-winning actress Dolly de Leon had good words for actor Martin del Rosario after watching him perform in a special preview of the play, Anino sa Likod ng Buwan (Shadow Behind the Moon).

Del Rosario was admittedly nervous during his theater debut in Jun Robles Lana’s acclaimed play. However, the Kapuso actor’s transition to the theater world has been met with enthusiasm, as he showcases his versatility and dedication to his craft.

For Martin, the experience has been a blend of nerves and excitement. “First time kong mag-play so ‘yung pakiramdam na may manonood sa akin live, doon ako kabado noong una. Mas lalo noong narinig ko na ‘yung chimes, iba pala ‘yung pakiramdam noon na alam mong after three minutes, start na ‘yung play (Being my first time to be in a play, at first the prospect of having viewers live made me nervous, even more so when I heard the chimes. It felt strange to know that after three minutes, the play would start),” he shared, describing the initial jitters of performing before a live audience.

However, once on stage, Martin’s actor instincts took over. “The moment na lumabas na ko sa stage, parang nawala lahat ‘yun. Kasi hindi mo naman makikita ‘yung audience, parang maa-isolate ka sa world ng istorya ng Anino sa Likod ng Buwan (The moment I went on stage, all that disappeared. It’s because you don’t really see the audience, and you feel immersed in the world of Anino sa Likod ng Buwan),” he explained, noting the immersive nature of theater.

He also described the unique experience of interacting with a live audience. “Nagulat na nga ako the moment na makarinig ako ng (I got jolted when I heard the audience) laugh or react,” he said, adding that he lovesa how engaged they get.

The actor has also been overwhelmed by the positive reception he has received. “Maraming nag-ge-greet sa akin na mga tao from work, from play, from people whom I idolize. Nakaka-flatter ‘yung mga comments nila, nakaka-inspire. It makes me want na mag-start na ‘yung play. Nakaka-excite. Nitong una, kinakabahan ako, pero right now mas nanginibabaw na ‘yung excitement na mag-start na ‘yung regular run ng Anino sa Likod ng Buwan (Many people have greeted me, people from work, from play, from people I idolize. I am flattered by their comments, and inspired. It makes me want the play to start already. It feels exciting. At first, I was feeling nervous, but now I am excited for the regular run to commence),” he revealed.

Martin’s family has also shown their support, with his sisters attending a performance.