Anna Feliciano: Celebrity dancer takes final bow

Veteran dancer and choreographer Anna Feliciano, one of the iconic figures behind Philippine television’s most memorable dance eras, passed away on 24 October at a hospital in San Mateo, Rizal. She was 65. The cause of death was reported to be a heart attack.

Feliciano’s legacy in dance and television stretches back to the golden age of variety shows. She began her professional journey in 1984 as one of the founding members of the Solid Gold Dancers, a group formed by her then-husband, Mel Feliciano. Known for their precision, energy and stage presence, the Solid Gold Dancers became a benchmark of Filipino television choreography in the 1980s.

From the spotlight of the dance floor, Anna transitioned seamlessly into television and film, appearing in several drama series and anthologies, where her vibrant personality and natural charisma shone.

But her greatest influence remained behind the scenes — as the resident choreographer for ABS-CBN’s noontime programs Magandang Tanghali Bayan (MTB) and Wowowee. When host Willie Revillame transferred to TV5 in 2010 and later to GMA-7 in 2015, Anna continued to be part of his creative team, staying loyal to her longtime collaborator and mentor.

Her artistry inspired generations of dancers — from stage veterans to today’s TikTok performers — blending discipline with joy, professionalism and passion.

Tributes from friends and dance community

Celebrities, fellow dancers and fans have since paid tribute to Anna on social media and at her wake.

Actor-dancers Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario and Joshua Zamora were among those who personally paid their respects, with Joshua posting on Instagram, “Salute to one of the legends, Ate Anna.”

Actress Coney Reyes extended her condolences, while music icon Gary Valenciano expressed shock and sadness, commenting, “Grabe shocker ’to when I found out. Condolences to Mel and family!!!”

In a poignant moment captured on TikTok, The Retro Sibs — composed of Mia Dina, Dindo and Deo Divinagracia — performed a tribute dance alongside fellow artists Jopay Paguia, Bobby Catimbang and Bennie Almonte, set to the classic “Anna” by Apo Hiking Society. The heartfelt performance, filmed at the wake, served as both a farewell and celebration of the woman who taught many of them to dance with soul.

A life remembered

Born on November 7, 1959, Anna dedicated over four decades to the performing arts — mentoring young dancers, shaping television choreography and proving that passion for movement knows no age.

Her son Rupert, through a Facebook post, confirmed her passing and thanked friends and fans for their prayers and love. Rupert’s wife April also shared a touching message with a Bible verse from Psalms 91:2, “I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.’”

Anna is survived by her son Rupert and daughter-in-law April, who remember her not just as a performer but as a mother, mentor and friend whose artistry brought light to countless stages and hearts.

Farewell to Anna Feliciano — the dancer who taught us that movement is poetry and that every beat, step and turn is a story worth telling.