Jr.
Chico - A Little Star Is Born
Daniel F. de Souza
He is
barely ten, studying in the IV STD at the Holy Family High School, Porvorim,
but has already carved a niche for himself among the konkani drama lovers for
his superlative performance on stage. His singing and acting ability belies his
age. He's lively, cheerful, with a cute innocent smile good enough to touch your
heart. Meeting little wonder boy Anthony Xavier Brinjel, popularly known by his
stage name, as Jr. Chico was a delightful experience. He is so very
spontaneous, friendly and never shies. Stepping into his father Young
Chico's shoes at a young age he has won the hearts of the young and the old
alike tiatr goers in Goa and abroad.
Jr. Chico's first association with the stage began in distant Delhi when he took
part in a English Musical show singing the hilarious song "I married a female
wrestler". Continuing his love for music he performed for the Razzle Dazzle show
back home in Goa at the Kala Academy. It was here that he was noticed for his
inherent singing talents. Soon Jr. Chico was propelled to the professional
konkani stage in Menino Mario's "Devachim Bhurgim" where he was called upon to
sing and play a child's role. Having gained more confidence this little boy was
roped in by veteran dramatist Tomazinho Cardozo in his dramatic troupe to
perform at the Kala Academy Tiatr Competition. Jr. Chico won a prize for his
singing. From here on there was no looking back for this young twinkling star,
he became an instant hit with several directors. His popularity spread far and
wide in Goa. A star was born.

"Ho Somaz Vingllo" of Inacia D'Souza, 'Izmoll' of Vincent de Curtorim and 'Ami
Tachim Bhurgim' of Anton Moraes were some of the other shows that saw little Jr.
Chico doing what he does best, singing with style, just like his Papa. Last
drama season when Tony Dias produced 'Ti Mhoji Maim' Part II, Jr. Chico was at
his singing best in this show, winning loud applause's. He rendered a excellent
solo mimicking 4 artist of the konkani stage viz., M. Boyer, Alfred Rose,
William de Curtorim and his own father the Young Chico. His imitation of the
above stalwarts was so near and so complete that it was a sure sign that this
boy was going to go places. And places he sure did go. Simultaneously performing
for Patrick Dourado's 'Suseg Piddear Kelo' Jr. chico enthralled the audience
with yet another of his solo and in the role of a child artist. The show
was staged in Dubai, and Jr. Chico was the center of attraction. Offers have
come in from the Gulf for this child artist to perform for more shows there.
Jr. Chico is an epitome of confidence while on stage, for a 10-year-old he
exhibits much maturity. His style of singing, and presenting himself on stage is
very much like his father. Impeccable sense of timing well modulated voice with
an effortless high pitch too good for his age. If he is given the right
direction and encouragement this little artist can be a real good asset to the
stage for many more years to come. When asked if liked to perform on stage? He
spontaneously and emphatically answered with a 'Yes'. " I also like drumming.
When I grow up I would like to be a drummer. I am also learning music and to
play the violin" Jr. Chico added further with a cute smile. It's not that he
only loves to sing and act, and play the drum. He is also very fond of football
and reading.
Presently his father Young Chico trains him with his singing and other minute
details with respect to the stage performance. Just a few hours are all that he
needs to learn the tune of the new song and the words too. The confidence that
this young boy exudes, and the talents oozing out of his tiny frame, there is no
doubt he is going to hog all the limelight in the years to come. At the moment
he is delicately balancing the time between his school and the numerous stage
engagements. He said he was also grateful to his teachers in school who give him
a lot of encouragement and appreciation too. Keep singing Jr. Chico, the world
is your stage!