NEWSFLASH

---

PRISCILLA ALMEDA, ACTRESS

Manila, July 29, 1998 - One of the revelations when "Larawan ... The Musical" re-opened at the Cultural Center of the Philippines last July 17 was the astonishing performance of sexy actress Priscilla Almeda in the role of Susan, the vaudeville star.

Malaya describes her performance thusly: "Priscilla came on stage like a whiff of fresh air, charging the scenes wherein she appears with such candor and nonchalance she literally ended up being a scene-stealer. And what a beautiful, sexy presence Priscilla makes on stage."

In a review for another paper, renowned art critic Pablo Tariman wrote: "Priscilla Almeda made a marked appearance as Susan, the bar girl. Hers was a characterization that neither debased the character nor glorified it. Her Susan was sensuous in every turn and one that succeeded in not turning the part into a coquette. She acquitted herself well."

Better known for baring her body in bold movies, Priscilla considers landing a role in the acclaimed Filipino musical classic "Larawan" a landmark in her career.

"I never imagines I would one day be doing musical scenes with Celeste Legaspi and Rachel Alejandro and all my esteemed co-stars int his production. I am nothing compared to them, but I sure worked harder than I've ever worked on any project before," the actress said.

Priscilla's transformation into a legitimate performer is a feat that has not one unnoticed. Producer Girlie Rodis is all praise for her wonderful attitude towards working on a musical, despite her being a novice on stage.

Director Tony Mabesa describes Priscilla as "an absorbing actress who is a delight to work with."

The "Larawan" experience has strengthened Priscilla's resolve to evolve into a fine actress. While sitting out her contract with Seiko Films, she has branched out to singing and performing in concerts here and abroad.

The young lady, who was given up by here parents as a baby, raised overseas by adoptive parents, ran away, entered the movies, sued her producer, found her biological parents, changed her name twice, has had a lot of living far beyond her 20 years.

The new direction she has taken may finally lead her to brighter lights, better roles and a broader perspective of the glitzy, flimsy world of show business.

---