Julie Anne, Rayver to showbiz wannabes: Work hard for your dreams

The entertainment industry is beginning to settle into a new normal. Cameras are beginning to grind in film productions with cinemas prepping up for their reopening. There are new shows to watch either on free TV or on digital platforms. Game shows and talent searches, too, are making everyone excited, although not as many as compared to the days prior to the pandemic.

However, Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz said showbiz wannabes should not be discouraged in pursuing their goal of getting a fair share of the spotlight even if opportunities remain scarce these days.

“Do not stop but instead, be motivated to work hard for your dreams, especially at this time when the situation is not that normal yet,” began Rayver, who shares Clash Master duties with Julie Anne in the new season of GMA 7’s The Clash. “There’s always a platform for arts, you know, we have projects when it comes to singing, acting and dancing. Meron tayong social media kung saan nakatutok ang mga tao ngayon. Huwag kang bibitaw kung ano man ang mga pangarap mo sa buhay. If you are dreaming to be an actor, a dancer or a singer, then, continue to pursue it because when you put your heart into it, I’m sure it will yield positive results.”

After all, life without art would be dull, as what also Julie Anne pointed out. “When I say art, it involves everything in the performing arts. Like music, it gives color and joy to our life. Singing tilts like The Clash are a perfect avenue for aspiring singers to reach for their dreams and this is also a way of honing your skills.”

While auditions began during the lockdown, contestants were able to join through online. “Thousands of aspiring singers auditioned online. Makikita mo na marami pa rin talagang magagaling,” Rayver declared.

Added Julie Anne, “That’s why we had a hard time choosing who will be included in the Top 30.” The production team couldn’t do anything but to trim down the number of contestants — from previous seasons’ 64 to the new season’s 30 — in accordance to safety protocols.

The singer-actress also noticed the powerful voices of the Top 30 yet only one can be declared the winner. “It really takes so much hard work to succeed in any field, especially here in showbiz. There will be rejections along the way but they should not stop you from trying again until you find your spot in this business.”

Seeing contestants performing on stage brings back some memories of her kontesera days. “I’ve been there so I know the feeling na sa backstage pa lang may kaba na. Kami ni Rita (Daniela, one of The Clash hosts), we were together in Popstar Kids (as contestants) but no rivalry or whatsoever because we thought it was just a game.”

Rayver, on the other hand, belongs to the prodigious showbiz clan of the Cruzes. He has become more popular for his acting and dancing and now, hosting skills on GMA. “We are thankful that we are back to work after the total lockdown,” said the actor and added that being at home during the height of the pandemic gave him the chance to spend quality time with his family. “Sa brothers ko, mas naging solid ‘yung samahan.”

Asked to share some tips on achieving a successful career, Julie Anne responded by saying, “In showbiz, I’ve learned to work hard and to be patient. Always keep your feet on the ground and be grateful sa lahat ng natatanggap mo. And it’s true that whatever you have achieved is much sweeter when hard earned.”