Vina Morales passed with flying colors in her Broadway debut.
The actress-singer officially took over the role of Aurora Aquino from Lea Salonga in the stage musical Here Lies Love on Friday, September 22, 2023 (Saturday, Manila time), at the Broadway Theater in New York City.
Read: Vina Morales, gaganap bilang ina ni Ninoy Aquino sa Broadway musical na 'Here Lies Love'
An elated Vina described the experience as "magical" and she was "overwhelmed by the love and amazing reviews."
She further wrote, "I made it to Broadway! Yeay! A dream come true and another checked on my bucket list.
"31 shows to go 'coz I'll be on the dance floor until Oct 22. Now I can say I am a Broadway actor. To God be the glory."
LIVING OUT HER DREAM
Vina likewise thanked everyone in the production including Lea, whom Vina fondly considers her mentor for the role.
In closing, Vina acknowledged those who were calling out her name while she was on stage.
"I can hear you ok and I am KILIG but I can't smile back and wave at you 'coz I am in a role character hehe," said Vina.
"Sa concert na lang po ako mag hi sa inyo. Pero I'm kilig that you guys are cheering for me. Salamat po."
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In a recent chat with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal), Vina shared how she auditioned for the play a decade ago but fell short of bagging the same role.
That's why being part of this latest iteration of Here Lies Love felt both surreal and a blessing.
Read: Vina Morales dismisses comparison with Lea Salonga after getting plum role in 'Here Lies Love'
"I always believe in God's timing. Kung talagang para sa 'yo, talagang mapupunta sa 'yo yan. So I'm just thankful that this is a dream come true," mused Vina.
"Kasi, when I entered theater, yung ginawa ko yung Sherrie na role sa Rock of Ages [in 2012] of Atlantis Productions, one of my dreams, is, part of my dream is to be on Broadway.
"So it's an answered prayer now. It's another check on my bucket list kaya I'm really excited and looking forward to performing for everyone on Broadway."