Cast and production members of ‘Her Son, Jose Rizal’ met with Philippine icon, award-winning singer and actress Lea Salonga, at an intimate gathering and dinner in Sydney.
Ms Salonga was in Sydney until Sunday, June 13, to rehearse for the Manila production of “Cats (Now and Forever)”. She is to play the cat, ‘Grizabella’, alongside an international cast in a month long performance at the Main Theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) starting July 24.
Despite her gruelling schedule, the country’s international pride accepted the invitation of Ms. Kate Andres, community leader and a member of the lead cast of ‘Her Son, Jose Rizal’, to meet and dine with fellow cast members, family and friends.
Among those who welcomed Ms Salonga in Star City (the venue of the Cats musical production in Sydney) were Ms Andres, (who plays the female lead role “Dona Teodora”), Elijah Merjudio (as “Pepe”), Isa Noble as “Soledad”), Claudio Trinidad (costume designer), Emy Milan (as guest in Town Fiesta) Tom Merjudio (as Paciano), Lennie Merjudio (as another guest in Town Fiesta) and RJ Rosales (as Jose Rizal).
Ms Salonga graciously signed autographs, posed for the cameras and dined with the ‘Rizal’ cast and friends at the private dining room of Sean’s Restaurant, also in Star City.
She talked more about the musical, juggling a hectic career and motherhood, and ‘Glee’, the American TV show that’s caught the world by storm, including the Miss Saigon and Disney films’ star.
Among the night’s prized treasures was a special note she wrote for everyone involved in the upcoming play. – ?