"Salamat Musika" opened Lea Salonga's concert at the Broad Stage last night in Santa Monica, California. Two hours later, she book ended it with "Thank You for the Music" by ABBA.
It was an exciting evening for me to hear Lea Salonga live, in concert. It was my first time so the moment when I found out that she was performing locally, I purchased my orchestra ticket over six months before the evening's sold out performance.
The last time I saw her in a live performance was several years ago in "Flower Drum Song," where afterwards, as she exited the theater in civilian clothes, she obliged a photo-op with my youngest brother.
Last night's concert was different because the focus was simply on her and her musical repertoire. It was an intimate setting ... just Lea and the piano accompaniment of her music director, Larry Yurman.
The set list demonstrated Lea's amazing talent and vocal range. Among my favorites included I Dreamed a Dream (Fantine) & On My Own (Eponine) from "Les Miserables," I'd Give My Life for You (Kim) from "Miss Saigon," Reflection (extended version) from "Mulan," When October Goes, Someone to Watch Over Me, Two Words (a song she sang at her wedding), and Ikaw (second of two Tagalog songs).
It was an enjoyable and entertaining evening for me that was sparked by Lea's own personality and humor. Most of all, it was a memorable night where talent touches the soul like magic.
I can only wish to have been with you on this magical evening. She will be performing at nearby Indiana, so I heard.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a fun and relaxed concert for her as well. She gets paid for singing songs she knows and loves. She is at that level of her career when she can afford to do what she wants having made a name for herself in Broadway. Kudos Lea Salonga!