“WHAT is Southampton famous for?”
This was a question posed to me by musical theatre royalty and two-time Disney princess Lea Salonga.
“Probably the Titanic,” I answer as we divert off course and began discussing the city’s history.
After explaining Southampton’s maritime history, Salonga and I get on to the matter at hand – her imminent arrival in the city as part of her Dream Again tour.
Lea Salonga will be gracing the Mayflower Theatre stage on June 19 as part of her long-awaited tour.
Renowned for playing the original Miss Saigon, performing in Les Mis, and being the singing voice of Princess Jasmine and Mulan, Salonga is excited to bring a range of performances to the audience.
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She said: “The last time I toured the UK was three years ago and that all felt like a blur.
“This is the first time I’m getting to tour again after the pandemic. We had a North American leg in the spring and now for the summer we’re in the UK.
“More than anything it signifies a return back to being able to do the things we’ve always enjoyed doing.
“I get to perform in front of actual people instead of singing into the screen of my phone. To be able to perform in the UK will be a lot of fun.”
Salonga’s repertoire of songs is by no means small, so what can Southampton’s audience expect?
“Definitely songs that have come from musicals,” she answers instantly.
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Audiences can also expect pop music, musical theatre, a few surprises, and a tribute to the late American composer, Stephen Sondheim.
Salonga added: “People can definitely expect a lot of musical theatre.
“It’s nice to be able to get the chance to figure out how to tell a story in a song. I normally don’t sing or tell a story I have not had the opportunity to tell.
“It’s fun to have the opportunity to do that. Showing versatility helps.
“I don’t like depending on the stuff people know me for. I like being able to mix things up a bit.
“It’s like I take the Steve Jobs approach to things; show people what they want before they realise they want it.”
Apple products are like a whole new world, I inadvertently respond.
Lea Salonga performs at the Mayflower on June 19 and tickets can be purchased here.
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