Fil-Am’s win at Tony Awards for ‘The King and I’ revival musical

“The King and I” revival musical (Photo courtesy of Broadway)

Filipino-Americans again gained recognition in Broadway as “The King and I”, with 14 Filipinos in its cast, was awarded the 2015 Tony Award for best revival musical.

With her performance as the English teacher Anna Leowens, Kelli O’Hara took home the best actress award in a musical.

For her role as Imelda Marcos in The King and I’s “Here Lies Love,” Korean American Ruthie Ann Miles won best actress in a featured role.

“I am profoundly grateful for everything this recognition has meant and for this honor than you the American Theater Wing and all of the voters,” she said.

Although not bringing home another Tony Award, Filipino Broadway producer Jhett Tolentino got two nominations: best play for “Hand to God” and best revival play for “This is our Youth.”

“To be honest, I’m not confident that two of my shows but regardless, it’s a celebration of the theater… I couldn’t be happier with the winners. With the gathering earlier I expected that ‘Curious’ was going to win and ‘Fun Home’ was gonna win. You know, I’m happy to lose it to them,” he said.

“I’m so glad Filipinos are…we’re more visible. That’s why I’m excited to go home and talk to other people. I have a few plans for the performing arts in Asia,” he added, already planning new shows to produce on Broadway.

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time” and “Fun Home” were awarded the Tony for best play and best revival play, respectively.

For her song performance in musical play “Gigi,” Fil-Am Vanessa Hudgens could not be more overjoyed.

“When you’re doing what you love, it fuels you. Like you know this, performers know this. It gives you so much joy and pleasure doing what you love” she said.

Meanwhile, Tony winner Lea Salonga’s most awaited return to Broadway via musical “Allegiance” had kept the theatre community abuzz.

“Glorious voice. Her voice is crystal clear. I don’t need to describe her. She is magnificent. One of the great voices of all time and a Tony winner already,” Allegiance’s lead actor George Takei said.