Star Magic’s newly rebranded workshop program, formerly known as Star Magic Workshops, was officially launched on March 26 under the name Star Magic School for the Creative and Performing Arts (SMSCPA) with some of its rising stars sharing how the training shaped their craft.
Among them were P-pop group BGYO and Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11 former housemates Kai Montinola and Jasmin Dudley-Scales, who reflected on their experiences with the intensive workshops.
“I came in thinking I would just take notes, read scripts, and learn how to act,” Montinola said of her time in the Meisner workshop under Coach Alecx Lorica.
“But it was more than that. Acting became emotional. You really have to feel what the scene gives you.”
Dudley-Scales, who described herself as a realist and overthinker, said the training helped her let go and be more open.
“Coach Alecx helped me accept the feelings, react truthfully, and relate to the character,” she said.
“It’s not just acting. You really get to know yourself on a deeper level,” the young star added.
She also praised the safe and judgment-free environment of the school.
“You think it’s intimidating because it’s Star Magic, but I felt safe. It made me want to strive even more,” she continued.
For BGYO, the road to stardom came with years of vocal and dance training before their 2021 debut. Each member recalled lessons that helped shape them as performers.
“My most memorable moment in Star Magic training was doing vocal warm-ups for the first time—it sounded so bad,” said Nate Porcalla, laughing. “It was all new to me.”
Akira Morishita emphasized the vocal coaching they received.
“Coach Jerwin [Nicomedes] really helped us improve and become more confident every time we sing on stage,” he said.
Mikki Claver credited the program for his transformation.
“From a non-dancer, I learned so much from our coaches. They really turned me into the performer I am today,” Mikki stated.
JL Toreliza said the coaches taught them to go all out, even during rehearsals.
“Even when no one’s watching, you have to perform like it’s a full crowd,” shared JL.
On the other hand, Gelo Rivera added that the program taught them the most important thing, which is discipline.
“From auditions to evaluations until we debuted, the training was holistic. They also taught us self-practice. That made a big difference,” the singer said.
SMSCPA builds on Star Magic’s legacy of talent development, now with expanded training in acting, voice, dance, and personality development for both aspiring and established artists.
“Now, I really respect the craft and the artists who’ve come before us. Because it’s not easy. But it’s worth it,” added Dudley-Scales.
