Lorraine A. De Arco - Performing Artist

I first met Lorraine 12 years ago when we were both part of the cast of Sinag-tala, a theatrical revue in Sacramento, CA. I can still remember hearing her amazing voice at the audition all those years ago, and she continues to amaze audiences with her talent. I don't want to take ANYTHING away from her accomplishments, so here's her bio:

Born in San Francisco, CA, partly raised in the Philippines, now residing in Sacramento County, Lorraine has been involved in numerous fundraisers & community events since the early 90s. She has been performing in Sinag-tala since 1993, and has served as its Associate Choral Director since 2003. She has opened for several Filipino entertainers such as Jaya, Ogie Alcasid, and Ms. Pilita Corrales. Lorraine has also performed with the Best of Broadway Revue and is currently one of the lead vocalists for the TAAL Band, led by Dee Pizarro & Loui Paman. In 2005, Lorraine portrayed the role of “Gigi” in the Diablo Light Opera Company's production of Miss Saigon (Pleasant Hill, CA). She was also featured in an episode of “World Musikahan” on The Filipino Channel last year, performing with the Philippine music industry legend, Mr. Ryan Cayabyab. Lorraine has performed the National Anthem in numerous sports events (since 2004) including the Sacramento River Cats, Sacramento Capitals, San Francisco Giants, Sacramento Monarchs (including the WNBA '05 Finals Championship game), San Francisco 49ers, and the Sacramento Kings (including the playoffs). She was selected to sing the National Anthem at the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series at the Infineon Raceway in June '06. Lorraine also won the $10,000 Grand Prize at the first ever Cache Creek Karaoke Contest back in August '06. She is currently in the production of Runaway Stage's “Smokey Joe's Café” in Sacramento, as Brenda.
“Sing. Dance. Dream. Fly.”


Describe the first time you realized that performing in front of an audience was what you wanted to pursue?
Good question. I honestly cannot give an exact age, but it did start out when I was really young. My first "public" performance was at the age of 5 to the tune of Olivia Newton John's "Xanadu" in my parents' hometown of Dauin, Negros Oriental (Philippines), at my Uncle Rodrigo's house (my father's younger brother). It started out just me singing & dancing along to the song.. all of a sudden, all these people appeared out of nowhere. I remember the living room packed with people, and there were even folks standing outside, peering in through the windows. They were very entertained by my show, I guess. I don't think that triggered my desire to perform in front of others--it was always IN me. it runs in the family... in BOTH families. Despite being such a shy kid, it was something I always wanted to do. I was always performing in front of the mirror, "practicing" my moves. At the age odf 10, I decided to join a singing contest at school. It was out of the ordinary for me because I was so damn shy. But I wanted to prove to MYSELF that I could do this... and so I did. I had no intentions of winning the competition (although I did make it to the Finals). Just wanted the experience to happen. However, it would take another 5 years before I would ever perform again.

What are some of your experiences you've had with auditions and how do you find them? Also, what advice can you give about auditions?
I'll be honest... Auditions are nerve-wracking! I hate waiting for my turn. I just want to get it done & over with. And once you're "on," you never know what they're thinking while you're doin' your thang.
My advice is to be punctual--ALWAYS. Be prepared. Always have a back-up! And try to be as professional as you can. As scared & nervous as you may be, don't show it. At the same time, don't be arrogant. Many times you will meet people who are overbearing & egotistical--don't let them intimidate you. It's a game they play. A lot are all talk--it's their way to dispirit you.

What are a some of obstacles you've run into while pursuing your dream, and what are the things that have kept you from giving up because of those obstacles?
I would have to say that many times I've been looked at differently because, well, of my race. When I started with this one theatre company years ago, no one really talked to me. Even though the production staff loved me, some cast members did not. I was part of a very small group of Asians. But that only encouraged me to do better. In fact, I saw it as a challenege. I wanted to prove to them that I had every right to be there as much as they did. After a while, the mood changed. Things were less tense than from the start. I don't let situations like that back me down.

What skills does a person need to become a performer and where can a person get these skills?
As a performer, try to get as much experience as you can. The more you do, the more skills you'll gain. You should allow yourself to take criticism. Seek the advice of someone who HAS the experience. LEARN with an open mind & heart. If need be, take lessons! It never hurts!

What advice can you offer to someone who wants to get into your field?
Like I mentioned before, be professional. Be prompt. Surround yourself with different parts of the performing arts. And most especially, be prepared to be backlashed. Not everyone will like you. You just have to learn to deal with it & do your part the best way you can.

How can people get a hold of you if they want more info about being a performer?
They can email me at RaineD7@peoplepc.com.