Hunter Dimailig – A Budding Stage Child Actor

By: Christian L, ChaCha M & Xavier D

 

Hunter Dimailig, at eight years old, is a young professional stage actor who started in the entertainment industry modeling and in commercials. He is of Filipino heritage.

This past Christmas season, he played Tiny Tim on “A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens, at the Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook, IL. The show’s Director Matthew McMullen gives a glowing observation of Hunter, “ Hunter’s unbridled joy lit up the room; his bright energy and consistent dedication will serve him well in his career.”

On the show’s electronic playbill, it was said that he was thrilled to be back at Drury Lane Theatre where he previously appeared in South Pacific, his first professional stage show. He has been in over 100 national commercials including Rice Krispies, Whirlpool, Sara Lee, and Disney toys. Television credits include the Fox network show Empire. Voiceover credits include Haribo Gold Bears and Nature’s Own Bread. He travels around Chicago, Milwaukee and New York for various modeling jobs, He has modeled for Marc Jacobs, Land’s End, Kohl’s, Disney, and Radio Flyer, just to name a few. Additionally, his first job was a commercial for V-Tech toys. Hunter thanks God, his parents and his agent for making everything possible.

Observers noticed that Hunter, young as he is, has found his comfort zone on stage. He was remarkably at ease during his entire performance, including a solo rendition of “ In The Bleak Midwinter.” Two years ago, after Hunter and his mother went to see the play, he told his mother he wanted to play Tiny Tim. Needless to say, his wish was fulfilled. Hunter was 3 years old when he started in the entertainment industry. His first job was a commercial for V-Tech toys. He has done over 100 national commercials, print ads and voice over, traveling around Chicago, Milwaukee and New York.

In the classic musical South Pacific, by Rodgers and Hammerstein, the cast included Broadway stars and playing the boy Jerome was Hunter. Director Victor Malana Maog was so impressed with the young actor. “ Hunter was head and shoulders above the others who auditioned because of his ability to be directed – his innate sense of play, and his authentic joy and respect that was evident both on and off stage. Hunter captures the best of the soaring Filipino talent and spirit. More, he exhibits a humanity and bliss on stage that can’t be manufactured. I can’t wait to see more of the adventures he chooses.”

Very well respected among his peers, Director Maog is based in New York. He was invited by Drury Lane to direct South Pacific in 2017. He is a Filipino American director, and among his numerous accomplishments, he was named one of American Theater Magazine’s People to Watch. Mr. Maog first gained recognition in 2004, when he was one of only six directors in the nation to receive the NEA/TCG Career Development Program.

Hunter is a student at Steeple Run Elementary School in Naperville where he attends 3rd grade honors classes. He belongs to an ice hockey league where he has been playing for 4 years. He also plays basketball and soccer.

All honors teacher, Mrs. Cheryl Manade has this to say, “ Hunter is the most determined, focused, passionate, personable and humble third grader I have ever had the privilege of knowing. His devotion to his family and career, along with his strong sense of faith, are admirable in someone so young and yet so wise beyond his years. He deserves all that comes his way and I know his work ethic will never compromise an opportunity. Hunter is a great example.” Reading and Writing teacher, Ms. Shana Smith offered, “Hunter makes my job as a teacher easy. He is always participating, smiling and is a natural leader. I am a lucky teacher to have him as part of my class.”

Hunter is the youngest son of Noel and Pamela Dimailig. He has two brothers, Cade and Tanner. The family lives in DuPage County.

There is a sweet ending to this article. Director McMullen is already talking of inviting back Hunter to next season’s presentation of A Christmas Carol, playing the same character if he’ll be available.

In character as Tiny Tim.

With ‘A Christmas Carol’ Cast

With ‘A Christmas Carol’ Cast

Talented Hunter With Director Victor Malana Maog – South Pacific

Three-month-old Baby Daniel Sy Villanueva, with his Mama Rowena, from Makati, Philippines. Baby Dan came to this pretty world when his older brother Vincent is 17 years old!

(Left) Soon-to-be two-year-old Landon Frias, Parents: Rainel & Vanessa Frias. Grandparents: Mario & Florence Bayan and Lain & Nell Frias. (Right) Dad Rainel Frias with son Landon.

Christmas 2018 pose for Kramer grandchildren: Sitting, L-R: Luke Speers, Hannah Speers, Jack Kramer and Will Kramer, Behind, Ava Parker, Joseph Parker & Cameron Parker.

Bata columnist Xavier Divinagracia with pet dog Travis.