Q&A with Adam Guevarra Almeniana

Adam Guevarra Almeniana is a theatre practitioner from Sorsogon-Bicol, Philippines. He is an alumnus of Sama-samang Tinig ng mga Aktor na Gumagalaw sa Entablado (S.T.A.G.E), which is a resident Theater Arts Company at the University of Santo Tomas Legazpi (former AUL-Legazpi City). He is also a Senior Member of Sining Banwa Albay Performance Collective Inc, a non-profit inter-disciplinary arts group and independent cultural organisation based in the province of Albay in the Philippines.

He began his theatre journey in 2008 as a pioneer member of Teatro Pilarinyo, a Diocesan Performing Group. He has since emerged as a cultural worker, performer, actor, choreographer, director, and theatre workshop facilitator for youth-oriented projects.

Adam is a beneficiary of the Möbius Fund, a revolving loan fund for actor-students. 

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What is it like to train here at ITI? 

At first, I was nervous because it was my first time venturing overseas, and on top of that, I was going to study with classmates from different nationalities. Wow! I tried to stay quiet at first and observe them—their behaviour, the culture each one carried, and how they embraced each other's differences. Eventually, I learned how to interact in an unfamiliar space. It's heartwarming that every day we spent together, I discovered things and mysteries about each of them that I never thought possible.

Think back to your first day here: what were some of your thoughts and emotions then?

I arrived at ITI almost a term late because in my home province, the Covid cases were still high, and travelling in and out from the city to Metro Manila was a struggle, with many requirements. This was one of the reasons why my departure was delayed. I had many questions in my mind back then—how would I survive, food, shelter, the people I would be with for three years, and of course, the longing for my family left in the Philippines. When I landed in Singapore, I went straight into quarantine for 14 days at a hotel in Paya Lebar. After the quarantine, I looked for the ITI location, and since I wasn’t familiar with the routine yet, I got lost. Good thing I have a lot of patience. Haha! Then I joined the class, they were almost rehearsing what they were performing on the term presentation. I almost missed all the lessons, but it’s okay. I'm here now, I cannot escape my fate, Laban!

Tell us how you came to know about ITI. What made you choose to come here?

I learned about ITI through alumni Ted and Hope. I was amazed when I saw their posts about ITI training, which involved different kinds of traditional forms. I felt challenged and asked myself, "Can I do this too?" (while scrolling through their posted pictures). But I doubted myself, haha! Then I started following the ITI page, learning about the kind of training and modules they offered. There was a fire inside me pushing me to apply for the next cohort, there was no other option but to try. ITI’s programme is for artists searching for meaning in life—and I am one of them.

What were you doing before coming to ITI?

I worked as a chef and at the same time, I was a senior member of a community-based theatre company in Bicol. I had been part of major play productions and conducted arts workshops in the community, all while balancing time between family, profession, and art.

What's one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had at ITI?

In three years of sweat, sacrifice, and tears—sometimes hidden during my time and training at ITI—many things were unlocked in my understanding, experience, knowledge, and interactions across different fields. It contributed greatly to me as an actor and artist to immerse myself in extraordinary traditional forms such as Kutiyattam, Jingju (Beijing Opera), Noh Theatre, and Wayang Wong, which I will always carry within me, wherever life takes me in the future. What left the deepest mark on my mind and heart is that nothing is impossible if you are always determined and dedicated to what you do. There are no barriers to embracing different kinds of cultures as long as you are open to accepting and embracing each other's differences—whether in race, skin colour, or beliefs—all united with one purpose for the arts and to serve the people.

What has it been like learning from and working with the teachers at ITI?

The impact has been significant, undeniable, and inspiring. This was my first time having teachers from overseas, and at first, I wondered how I would deal with them. But along the journey, I got to know them better—not just in their fields of expertise and different backgrounds but also through the personal principles they shared with us. The teachers were very generous in helping us in all aspects, approachable, and patient. I'm glad and grateful to have spent three years with them.

How has what you’ve learnt here shaped or changed you as an actor?

What I’ve learned here has profoundly shaped me as an actor. Immersing myself in various traditional forms and diverse training methods has expanded my understanding of performance beyond conventional approaches. It has deepened my appreciation for discipline, precision, and the cultural richness behind each form. I’ve gained a stronger sense of presence, body awareness, and emotional depth, allowing me to explore characters and stories with more authenticity. The experience also taught me the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and openness to new ideas, making me more confident in embracing different styles and perspectives in my craft.

Describe your biggest takeaway from the ITI experience.

My biggest takeaway from the ITI experience is the transformative power of diversity and discipline in the arts. Being exposed to a wide range of traditional forms like Kutiyattam, Jingju (Beijing Opera), Noh Theatre, and Wayang Wong, I learned that true artistry transcends cultural boundaries and requires deep respect for tradition. The rigorous training taught me perseverance, patience, and the importance of precision, while the collaboration with artists from different backgrounds opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and creating. It reinforced the idea that art is not just a personal pursuit but a shared experience that connects us all, regardless of race, culture, or belief.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to bring what I've learned back to my community, sharing the techniques and traditional forms I’ve encountered with local artists and theatre groups. I want to continue conducting arts workshops, especially for young and emerging performers, to inspire and help develop their skills. Additionally, I aim to create new works that merge these traditional forms with contemporary storytelling, exploring themes that resonate with our culture and community. Expanding my reach internationally through collaborations and performances is also a goal, while always staying rooted in using the arts to serve and uplift the people.

What would you say to a new student or someone thinking of joining ITI?

I would say to a new student or someone thinking of joining ITI: Be ready for a journey that will challenge you in ways you’ve never imagined, and transform you as an artist and as a person. ITI will push you out of your comfort zone, but it will also open doors to a deeper understanding of different cultures, traditional forms, and yourself. Stay open, be patient, and embrace the process because the growth you'll experience here is invaluable. It's a place where you’ll learn not only technical skills but also the discipline, perseverance, and heart required to truly serve the art and the community.

Any special thanks or parting words?

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. To my teachers: thank you for your endless patience, wisdom, and for pushing me beyond my limits. You have not only taught me the craft but also shaped my values as an artist. To my family, thank you for your unwavering love and support, especially during the times I was far away. You are my strength and inspiration.

To the benefactors and funders of scholarships and bursaries, your generosity made this dream possible. Thank you for believing in the potential of artists like me and for investing in our growth. To my fellow members of the arts community and all supporters, thank you for being part of this journey. Your encouragement fuels my passion, and I look forward to sharing all I’ve learned with you. This achievement is not mine alone—it belongs to all of you who have been with me every step of the way.