Nathan Studios is no longer focusing solely on film production as it officially launched its talent arm, Nathan Studios Artist Management, in a formal event held on February 3 in Quezon City.
The newly launched management division introduced its first signed artist, Ice Almeria, the grand champion of the ABS-CBN dance competition ‘Time to Dance’, which aired in 2025. Nathan Studios also produced ‘Time to Dance’, hosted by Gela Atayde and Robi Domingo.
Ice is now being co-managed by Nathan Studios Artist Management and Star Magic. According to the company, his signing reflects their belief in his potential beyond dance competitions.
Nathan Studios Artist Management is headed by Sylvia Sanchez, who serves as CEO and president. During the launch, she shared her advice to Ice, emphasizing values alongside talent.
“At ang bilin ko sa kanya, maging marespeto at makisama sa lahat para maabot ang mga pangarap niya,” Sylvia said.
Aside from Ice, Nathan Studios also formally welcomed the cast of the MMFF 2025 Best Picture ‘I’mPerfect’—actors with Down syndrome—into its artist management roster. The film, produced by Nathan Studios, made history at the Metro Manila Film Festival after winning Best Picture, Best Actress for Krystel Go, and Best Cast Ensemble.
“Today is very special for Nathan Studios and for our artists. This is not just signing a contract—it is the start of a dream we are building together,” Sylvia said.
“At Nathan Studios, we believe talent has no limits. It is not about labels, but about heart, hard work, and courage. These artists with Down syndrome have great skill, creativity, and honesty that comes from the heart,” she added.
Krystel, who once again became emotional during the media conference, reiterated the message she shared during the MMFF awards night.
“Salamat po sa pagkakataong ito para mabigyan kami ng boses at maipakita namin na kaya rin naming umarteng mga persons with Down Syndrome. Higit sa lahat, Lord, tinupad N’yo po ang pangarap ko, naming lahat, na maging artista,” she said.
Sylvia revealed that the story of I’mPerfect, directed by Sigrid Bernardo, had long been rejected by other producers before it was offered to her.
“Hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip,” Sylvia shared, explaining why she immediately agreed to produce the film.
Parents of the actors with Down syndrome also expressed gratitude, saying they never expected their children to be given opportunities not only to act, but to become contract artists.
“One parent even told me na parang mas mahal ko pa raw ang mga anak nila kaysa sa kanila,” Sylvia shared.
She added that she now considers the ‘I’mPerfect’ cast part of her family and revealed that they already have endorsements and upcoming projects lined up.
“We want these artists to be heard, seen, loved, and accepted by everyone,” she said.
Nathan Studios also announced that ‘I’mPerfect’ is set for international screenings in Madrid, Lisbon, Lithuania, Poland, the Czech Republic, and other territories.
“Thank you for all the love and support as we continue bringing this meaningful story to audiences around the world,” Sylvia said.
When asked about comparisons likening her to the late film producer Mother Lily Monteverde, Sylvia was quick to downplay it.
“No. Mother Lily is way, way up there. She is incomparable,” she said.
