For one still considered to be in the prime of life—lovely to look at, delightful to hear—Lea Salonga has been in show biz for 30 years and she’s all of 39! She was only 18 when chosen to star as Kim in Miss Saigon at the Drury Lane in London’s West End. And she had her first leading role in the Philippines in Annie when she was 9. Many of us relate to her warm, interpretive vocals as Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and as the title character in Mulan.

Although she has appeared in numerous concerts with orchestras, Salonga hasn’t had any experience in the cabaret world and yet she appeared easy and comfortable, making the transition effortlessly. Her Journey is an upward climb as she joyfully and humorously opened with a Filipino song “Salamat, Salamat Musika” (“Thanks to the Music”) launching into chatter in her native language. With a twinkle in her eye, her vocal purity and sweet personality quickly won over the audience as she regaled with stories about her artistic family and varied musical career, launching into a mini-storyline with “Sing,” “Tomorrow” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker.”

The show picked up dramatically in passion and romance with “Too Much for One Heart” (written for Miss Saigon but omitted), showing off her lush and powerful voice. She immediately followed with “On My Own” (which she performed on Broadway in Les Misérables), displaying her deep soulful qualities, recreating the poignancy of the moment.

Her storyline continued with “Something’s Coming,” about meeting her husband, Rob, leading up to Heisler/Goldrich’s “There’s Nothing I Wouldn’t Do,” a list song about going to extraordinary measures to please. Included was a Filipino novelty, “Waray Waray” (about women with muscles of steel, kisses of wine) and also performed on the same Carlyle stage by Eartha Kitt. With a 3 ½ -year-old daughter waiting for her at home, the end of the show presented as an homage to little Nicole, with “Your Song” and “Someone Is Waiting for You” (“….Have faith, little one. Try to be brave. . .”) Personally, I’m not fond of such introspective and sad endings.

Song choices were eclectic and truthful. I only wish she had chosen a look more in keeping with one so pretty and young instead of the drab gray gown that, unfortunately, did nothing to enhance her frame.

Her musicians were: Larry Yurman, Musical Director/Pianist; Dave Ratacjak, drums; John Miller, bass; Jack Cabari, guitar.  Lea Salonga appears at the Café Carlyle through March 27.

Sandi Durell
Cabaret Scenes
March 10, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org