Video: Miss Saigon 25th Anniversary Gala
Addy Says :
I was in High School when they began the search for Asian artists to top bill a West End Production specifically at the Theatre Royale, Drury Lane. It was all over the news and a lot of local artists auditioned. Lea Salonga, took on the role of Kim the ill-fated Vietnam Girl, topbilled Miss Saigon alongside other Filipino artists the likes of Isay Alvarez, Monique Wilson among others.
That show has now become one of the most successful shows in London and in Broadway and is now being re-staged at the Prince Edward Theatre featuring a new breed of talents including our very own Rachelle Ann Go.
Back then, I remember knowing the lyrics of every songs in the Musical by Heart. As a matter of fact I even dreamt of playing The Engineer. And as years gone by the music, the lyrics and images of Miss Saigon has remained and has been playing like a movie in my mind (grins and starts belting out the song). Too bad I was not born to a family who can afford to watch it in either London or Broadway. I even missed the Manila staging.
Then I came across this piece in youtube and I was transported back to my younger years. So I immediately clicked it. When the "Overture" played i had goosebumps all over my body, then out came the adorable Lea Salonga wearing a Vietnamese Conical Hat , to the delight of the crowd. She then sang "This is the Hour" , a capella, then later joined by the ensemble; at this point my eyes are already wet with tears. Then came Rachelle Ann joining Lea to sing "The Movie in my Mind", my heart started pounding and i just melted right there... Just watch!!!!
Video link : Miss Saigon 25th Anniversary Gala
Now seeing this clip of the 25th Anniversary Gala sent chills all over my body and i am on the verge of crying. I found myself laughing and clapping my hands in joy as if I was right there in the font row of the the Prince Edward Theatre.
Lea is timeless in terms of beauty and talent; Rachelle has a very powerful voice and presence; Jon Jon Briones and Jonathan Pryce were both funny and delectable. The foursome of Lea and Simon Bowman/ Eva Noblezada and Alistair Brammer (delicious) was so much fun to watch especially when they exchanged partners. (bubble thought: I wonder how it felt kissing Simon then Alistair in one night... I wonder how Lea felt... or should I say how Robert Chien took it... Oh well it is all for the show but I sure do envy her... Now I wanted to be KIM hahaha)
Well I guess watching the musical live will remain in my bucket list forever... Thanks youtube for letting me experience this...
