The Goan goes behind the scenes to delve into the lives of couples and families who are professional actors onstage. One prime example of this is none other than Comedian Janet and Philip Almeida from Colva
While performing for Rose Ferns in ‘Goonda’ these twoartists came to know each other closely for the first time and became friends.With passage of time friendship gradually blossomed into romance. However theircourtship did not stretch for a long period. Within six months or so they tiedthe knot and became husband and wife. They have since then always performedtogether in any troupe.
Janet and Philip are parents to two young children. Adaughter named Swizel and a son named Swidon. “My in-laws are very supportive,and they take charge and look after our children in our absence during tiatrshows. Philip’s brothers too render help whenever we are out performing atshows. Besides my mother would also sometimes come from Navelim and spend timewith our children,” informs Janet.
When asked how they manage when they perform overseas, Janetwho does most of the talking answers promptly, “When we go on foreign tours, Iinvite my mother to come and stay with the children. If its vacation time, Ikeep them with my mother.” Philip then adds, “In case we have two or more showssuccessively on any given day, then we prepare their meals and keep them readyfor the kids. Now they are big enough to do little things on their own. Wedon’t have a maid, but manage the household chores on our own.”
Janet with a broad smile continues, “My husband is verysupportive and helpful, he is always willing to chip in with the householdchores. I don’t even have to ask him to. In case he is not comfortable doingcertain things, he will tell me so. Then I take over from him.”
And their daily hectic grind as professional artists moveson from one day to the other, week after week and month after month, as thetiatr seasons come and go at regular intervals.
