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!