An interview with TV's art angels

They are television’s art angels. Every Saturday morning, Ate Pia and Kuya Tonipet bring color and joy to children by taking them along with their search for different art adventures. Catering to the young and young at heart, Art Angel aims to show that art is not only accessible and doable but fun to do as well. Broadcast journalist Pia Arcangel flies through the airwaves as Ate Pia, the young and vibrant host of the show. Pia is also seen on TV as news reporter of news programs Saksi and 24 Oras and news anchor of GMA Flash Report-Special Edition. Kuya Tonipet, Antonio Jose Gaba in real life, is a seasoned Repertory-trained theater actor, commercial model, and freelance assistant director. Art Angel, with its ratings climbing up, is now on its third season and is very much at home in its new set designed by renowned children’s book artist Jason Moss. With Pintado, the ever-reliable drawing guru, Ate Angel and Kuya Tonipet's art projects have never been so easy and enjoyable. How do you like hosting Art Angel? Pia: It is very enjoyable. Like Tonipet, I look forward to Saturday since we tape on that day. It doesn’t seem like work at all. Before we know it, the taping is already over. Tonipet: I just don’t like it but I love it. I always look forward for the taping every Saturday. It is very fulfilling. What is the most challenging task you’ve done for the show? Pia: The hardest for me was when I was asked to sing. I am not a singer so it was really difficult (laughs). Tonipet: Grabe, the Voltes 5 project… sobrang laki (laughs). My character as Tonipet requires me to come out in different costumes. There was one time when they painted my face to look like a lion. But it was all for fun. How did you get prepared to take up the challenge of hosting a program for children? How long was your preparation for every episode? Pia: It is really different from what I do in news, di ba? In news, it is so straightforward, hard-hitting. In Art Angel, at first I was really stiff because I am not used to acting in the real sense of the word. But from the very start I really like kids, and I love talking to them. The first few episodes, tapang lang — no workshops — but later on I attended an acting class. A theater actress helped me to loosen up. For the artwork, a staff guides us step-by-step and shows us the finished product. After that, we try to do it ourselves. Tonipet: My background in theater helped me a lot. For the activities, our in-house art directors briefed us on how to do it. Then, we make sure we do it ourselves… talagang hands-on. What's been the most fun about being the host of a TV show for children? Pia: Every time is fun. We always laugh. Tawa lang kami ng tawa. Any memorable moment/episode you want to share since hosting Art Angel? Pia: I like our Halloween episode since it was the first time we used our new set. Tonipet: Memorable was when the rating started to climb up. Do you feel any sense of fulfillment in doing the show? Pia: We are very lucky since we know our target audience. Our role as hosts of a children’s show is very clear and very specific. We’re helping the children how to be creative and hone their skills. Our show also gives the children a venue to showcase their art works. That’s why we asked them to send in their works. Very worthwhile! Tonipet: Every time we do something in the show, it is highly collaborative. From the production unit manager to the executive producer, they always give us inputs for the children to understand. How was your lifestyle changed after becoming a children show host? Pia: It hasn’t changed much but it’s surprising that every time we go out, kids and parents recognize us. Tonipet: Kids now greet me in malls. (laughs) What are the major differences of working for theater and in television? News reporter in Saksi/24 Oras and as host of Art Angel? Tonipet: How did you know that? (laughs) It is different in the sense that in theater… my training in Repertory is for big audiences. Here in TV, I need to lower down my voice. Pia: As a reporter, I need to look serious. As host of a children’s show, I need to loosen up and feel relaxed. At first, I couldn’t reconcile the difference. In the end, I realized both tasks should complement each other since as a reporter and as host of Art Angel, I’m trained to look for the right words to communicate. Ever since I started hosting the show, when I go out in the field, people see a more relaxed news person who they can approach. Hindi sila takot na lumapit sa akin at sabihin nila ang mga problema nila. When I’m out there, sa pagiging art angel ko I promote Serbisyong Totoo. Who are your major influences in life? In your career? Pia: My husband (sportscaster Miko Halili). He is both my biggest fan and critic. He doesn’t hesitate to tell me what I do wrong and is generous in complimenting me on the things I do right. Tonipet: Zeneida Amador. She trained me. Every thing I know, acting and projecting, came from her. Another one is Baby Barredo. Who’s your favorite cartoon character and why? Pia: Betty Boop. She’s very kikay and at the same time kenkoy. Tonipet: Bugs Bunny and Superman kasi pareho silang ma-abilidad. What’s your favorite fairy tale? Pia: Cinderella. Very classic, since every girl dreams of a Prince Charming. It also teaches you na hindi ka dapat nagpapaapi since you have the capability of fighting for yourself. Tonipet: (Thinks for a few minutes) Hansel and Gretel. We intend to take for granted the capabilities of children, but we’ll be surprised that they can do a lot. Hansel and Gretel, even they are still children, were able to change their fate. If you will recommend a book for children, what would it be and why? Pia: The classics. Aesop’s Fables since it is from these books that you get basic lessons and values. Tonipet: Roald Dahl’s books: James and the Giant Peach, The BFG, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Where is your favorite place to relax in Manila? How do you spend your spare time? Tonipet: Ah sa ano… (laughs). Seriously, sa Coffee Bean. Nothing elaborate. Pia: At home because I can do whatever I want without anybody looking and listening. I can be myself. Did you always want to be in television/theater? If you had not chosen this profession, what else would you be doing - ever considered to be a teacher? Pia: I actually taught English for a semester in Ateneo. If I haven’t been in TV I would have been a full-time professor since I love communicating. It runs in the family. My mom is a professor and are my aunties. Tonipet: I always love acting. Any chance I get, I grab it. In acting, I fully express myself and my feelings.

- Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, iGMA.TV