Awra: From Internet sensation to certified star

Awra Briguela’s journey to stardom saw its peak Sunday night (April 9) when he was named the first-ever grand winner of the top-rating musical-variety program Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids after his epic impersonation of rapper Nicki Minaj.

The so-called Breakout Child Star, who shot to Internet fame with his signature “awra” facial expression, has dabbled in acting in both TV and film. But it was his stint in Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids that got him a legion of admirers as the show gave him an opportunity to flaunt his natural flair for performing and entertaining.

After his impersonation of Nicki, Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, one of the show’s jurors, called him a superstar.

“All I can say is, I hope that as the show business’ newest superstar, you don’t forget where you came from because a lot of people there look up to you and get inspiration from you. I hope and pray that you keep it up. If you do that, that will be the result, whatever stage you step on,” he said.

His co-jurors, Megastar Sharon Cuneta and singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid, also took a moment to commend Awra’s performance, as well as his character.

Sharon said, “Your performance was so great. You give me and our viewers so much joy every week. Tonight, you gave it all.”

“You were so great. All I want to say to you is, many people don’t know how you are backstage and off-cam. You are a really kind and humble person. Thank you that I met you that way. Congratulations, well done,” shared Ogie.

As the grand winner, Awra won P1M, a house and lot, and a trip for four to Jeju Island, South Korea.

He garnered a total score of 95.41 percent from the combined jurors’ scores and public text votes, besting his seven co-performers AC Bonifacio, Alonzo Muhlach, Elha Nympha, Justin Alva, Lyca Gairanod, Sam Shoaf and Xia Vigor.

The two-night grand showdown did not only feature the performers’ cute transformations but also a rare performance from the three jurors with their kids Frankie Pangilinan, Leila Alcasid and Kiana Valenciano who sang OPM hits I-Swing Mo Ako, Sumayaw, Sumunod and Mahal na Mahal Ko Siya.

Premier love team Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla also delighted viewers with their performance of Can’t Help Falling in Love.

Awra’s victory in Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids is bound to give his already shining star a boost. At just 14, he has already shown potential to be the country’s next biggest entertainer, and Kapamilya fans will surely see more of him.