Stage, Screen & Everything in Between: A Night with the Ms. Lea Salonga

 

I was fortunate enough to experience a little bit of magic last November 7 at The Theatre at Solaire and the one making it all happen was none other than the Philippine’s pride, international star, Ms.Lea Salonga. Her concert was a beautiful experience entitled "Stage, Screen & Everything in Between" which showcased her brilliant voice and sense of humor.

As soon as the lights went dark, the audience was whisked away into a magical realm. The familiar (and still as strong and angelic) vocals of Lea both inspired nostalgia but also sheer wonder washed over the packed theater. Moving fluidly from Broadway icon legends like "I Dreamed a Dream" and "On My Own" to sweet classic songs and Disney hits.

Please forgive my huge face. But I was so excited to see Lea's concert! It's something I wouldn't pass up even if I had to take a leave from work.

Lea Salonga Sounding Joy Christmas Album

Lea was able to connect with the audience on a personal level, which was a highlight of the concert. She told stories about how Miss Saigon had changed her life forever & shared details behind that legendary voice. The night was also made by her humor, humility and natural warmth towards anyone who loves music. She also shared how the song “The Greatest Love of All” became her second song during her Miss Saigon Manila audition when she was only 17. 

I have never heard a singer with voice clarity like Ms. Lea Salonga

The concert was as much a treat for the eyes and mind. Clever, modern, purposeful stage design and lighting complimented the concert in all aspects. The stage setup which is simple but elegant helped in bringing Lea's voice into the front. With talented singers Clay Aiken, Nyoy Volante and his wife, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante who all shared the spotlight with Lea that night, it was truly a night to remember. 

Lea Salonga and Nyoy Volante

 Lea Salonga and Clay Aiken

It was also a case of leaving the audience wanting more at the end of the concert. A lovely encore, and a perfect bookend to a magical night from Lea. So I walked out and left, thankful to Solaire and Ms. Lianne Garciano that I just got to experience something of that caliber.

I went home that night while still on cloud nine. I even had an LSS (last song syndrome) for the entire week after. If you get to see Lea Salonga live, go for it, don't pass up! And it is a soul-deep experience you carry for life.

Special thanks to my fellow blogger, Sir Ted Claudio of wazzup.ph for giving me a ride that night. While we were driving home, Sir Ted even played "Reflection" since Lea didn't sing that song during the concert. I even brought home a signed Christmas Album of Ms. Lea called Sound of Joy. I went home so kilig that night. I've always been a Lea fan since grade school. So I was so thrilled to see her perform live in a concert. This may not exactly be the first time I saw her perform live. But seeing her in a concert where she sang some of my favorite songs was truly a dream come true.

Should you want to see more of Lea Salonga, she will be performing along with Martin Nievera and Bituain Escalante in Solaire's New Year Countdown called Stars Collide: The Solaire New year's Eve party happening at the Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort Entertainment City, December 31st, from 7:30Pm onwards. 

For more info, please visit this page from Solaire's website.