Fil-Am star Vincent Rodriguez III reconnects with Filipino roots
Vincent Rodriguez III / Photo from vrodrigueziii/Instagram
After more than three decades, Los Angeles-based Filipino American actor and musician Vincent Rodriguez III has recently made his grand homecoming to the Philippines.
Rodriguez took center stage for a special one-night-only performance, “An Intimate Evening with Vincent Rodriguez III,” held recently at 12 Monkeys, Estancia Mall, Pasig City.
For Rodriguez, this performance marked a full-circle moment. In an exclusive interview with Inquirer.net USA, the “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” star expressed his excitement about returning to his roots.
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Having last visited the Philippines as a child, he eagerly anticipated immersing himself in the country’s culture, most especially meeting the people and eating some Filipino dishes. “I’m looking forward to taking in the vibe and meeting the people, the food, the culture. Looking forward to embracing it,” he shared.
When given the opportunity to perform in Manila, Rodriguez was immediately on board.
“That’s where my family is from, please, please, please, let’s perform in Manila,” he recalled. Despite having spent most of his life abroad, he acknowledges that being Filipino has deeply influenced his creative journey, from the roles he has played to his artistic pursuits.
Audiences were treated to an engaging and interactive experience.
“What’s fun about it is it’s live. The audience can participate, and I’m going to use that,” he said before the show. As an added surprise, he revealed that the night will not just be about music and dance but will also include a bit of magic. “Yeah, I’m an actual magician. Surprise!”
Presented by DMH Mendoza Productions (DMHM) in collaboration with Broadway producers Don Michael H. Mendoza and Lora Nicolas Olaes (Here Lies Love, SMASH), the cabaret-style show was an evening filled with music, dance, storytelling and even a touch of magic.
With his return to Manila, Rodriguez has reconnected with his heritage while sharing his passion for performing.
