In a community where so many aspire to be singers, we soon enough find that there are the so-so singers and then, there are real singers. And then we spot one who oozes with talent like Dexter De Rosa, whose velvety voice sends tingles down your spine. Those attending the Philippine Community Council’s Independence Day Celebration on 10 June at Waterview will be treated to Dexter’s rare musical talent.
We knew him then as Dexter Villahermosa. He grew up before our very eyes and was a familiar face on the Filipino entertainment scene until he snatched a much deserved role in the Miss Saigon production. His powerful vocals saw him as part of the ensemble which later landed him the understudy role for Thuy in both the London and Sydney productions.
He returned to Sydney after a three-year stint only to be spotted by the Queen of Songs, Pilita Corrales who whisked him off to the Philippines serving as his Manager but was later replaced by Kitchie Benedicto. At this point, he changed his surname to De Rosa for ease of communication.
In the Philippines, he appeared on hit TV shows like SOP and ASAP and recorded an album with Viva Records. He performed solo as well as with bands and also toured USA and Europe.
Having grown up in Sydney, Dexter cherished his time in the Philippines. “It was a great opportunity for me as I wanted to immerse myself in the culture. I wanted to cross the threshold from being a tourist to being a resident, and it was indeed a learning experience for me,” he said. “I got insight into the culture I grew up never knowing and I finally got to embrace it,” he added.
No longer in his teens and recently bestowed with marital bliss, Dexter exhibits his wisdom that comes with age and experience as he talks of the differences between the entertainment industry in the Philippines and Australia. “Here in Australia, even little people can chase their dreams and have a chance of being known for their own merits. You can be rewarded for your talent. In the Philippines, the ‘kakilala system’ still prevails and hence there exists a dynasty of entertainers. It’s hand-me down fame by name not by talent.”
He explains further: “Music in the Philippines is very limited to pop commercial music. They approach music from a celebrity culture and you have actors who try and sing. There is a desperate desire to be famous, thus opening themselves to exploitation. Sadly, there are those willing to be exploited for that one chance to be famous. They become the author of their own misery. On the other hand, Australia definitely has a wider music scene. We have the capacity to access and appreciate theatre music, symphony as well as the commercial hits.”
“The greatest lesson I’ve learned in my stay in the Philippines is that there is much beauty in the country; the people are friendly and hospitable; but sadly there is so much untapped potential.”
Last year, Dexter bagged the Talent Quest at Mounties as he exhibited his repertoire ranging from pop, soul, to songs from hit musicals.
Ever so humble and attitude always in check, Dexter continues to explore his musical talents, now trying his hand at writing music, while continuing his on stage presence where he is most at ease. He also teaches piano and voice culture at his music studio in Quakers Hill. But for now, one thing is certain. He is bound to wow the audience when he performs at the PCC’s Independence Day celebrations and he’ll definitely make everyone stand proud. (www.filipin-oz.com)