Natividad “Naty” Crame Rogers was a true agent of Philippine theater arts, dedicating most of her life onstage and helping emerging thespians hone their craft, whether in front or back of the curtain. The Filipina artist passed away last Feb. 1, 2021, at the age 98 due to old health.
Best remembered for her portrayal of Paula Marasigan both on stage and in the film version of Nick Joaquin’s “A Portrait of a Filipino Artist,” Naty is a respected Filipina actress, writer, drama teacher.
Since the start of her career in the ‘60s, Naty garnered numerous praises for work. She was honored with a Gawad Award in Theater by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), a Centennial Award for Women by the National Commission of Culture and the Arts, a Natatanging Gawad Award for Theater by Philstage. She was also among CCP's Best 100 Filipino artists.
Apart from her drama accolades, Naty’s legacy lives in the artists whom she shared her knowledge and passion for the craft with. She was among the founding leaders of theater companies Aming Tahanan Sala Theater, St. Scholastica’s Children and Teachers’ Theater, and Arena Theater, where she tirelessly mentored generations of stage artists.
“We are children of the light--you and I,” a quote she said according to noted Filipino playwright Nicholas Pichay. “Every time we fully realize ourselves in drama and the theater, we feel our immortality.”
Rest in power, Naty Crame-Rogers.