Recently in Manila, aside from the universal themes embedded in the narrative and recognizable characters, musicals are a hit because of their well-crafted songs. These songs leave a lasting impression on the audience and make them experience Last Song Syndrome (LSS). They usually become part of their everyday playlists.
An example of such a list may comprise the following tunes from musicals: Bring Him Home, I Dreamed a Dream, and On My Own from Les Misérables; Memory from Cats; I Know Him So Well from Chess; Don’t Cry for Me Argentina from Evita; Maria, Tonight, and Somewhere from West Side Story; What I Did For Love from A Chorus Line; Loving You from Passion; and Only He-Only You and Starlight Express from Starlight Express.
Songs from Miss Saigon, currently playing at The Theatre at Solaire, are expected to make it to the list. The Manila edition of the musical features Abigail Adriano, Nigel Huckle, Seann Miley Moore, Laurence Mossman, Kiara Dario, Lewis Francis, and Sarah Morrison in various roles.
The musical numbers of Miss Saigon speak of love, hope, and selflessness. From Sun and Moon to The Movie in My Mind, each song tells a different aspect of the story. The Last Night of the World captures the hope of a better future, while I’d Give My Life for You portrays the selfless love of a mother.
“Miss Saigon” may be viewed as a tale about dreaming and fulfilling one’s aspirations, like enjoying a cheerful life or making it big somewhere. Regardless of the characters’ contexts, The Movie in My Mind and The American Dream speak of it, and they take the last two spots on the list.
While these musical numbers are great additions to playlists, watching actors perform them on stage promises an experience like no other.
