When Pia met Lea

NEW YORK — Two world-class Filipinas met in New York City last Jan. 9 at the Longacre Theater in Broadway.

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach watched the musical Allegiance, starring the original Miss Saigon Lea Salonga. The show, which ends its Broadway run on Feb. 14, also stars George Takei, Telly Leung, Katie Rose Clarke and Michael Lee.

Just like any other night, there were a lot of Filipinos who lined up to see the show, but this night was special. Two world-class Filipinas were at the venue. Pia arrived with a Miss Universe staff member as people were making their way into the theater. Fans then gathered around her, hoping for an opportunity to have their pictures taken with her.

After having her picture taken in front of the theater, Pia was instructed to proceed inside to the dismay of her adoring fans. Before she went in, however, she waved and said sorry to them, comforting those who were outside. One fan was so mesmerized, he was screaming how he loves and adores her. I am sure Balitang America’s Don Tagala, whom I watched Allegiance with, captured it all on video.

Inside the theater, we were surprised to see Pia was seated two rows behind us. It was obvious that many people recognized her after seeing her on TV for the last five days. People even followed her when she went out during the intermission.

In the final scene of the show, where most of the audience got teary-eyed, we glanced behind us and saw Pia crying.

Pia with the Allegiance cast (from left) Telly Leung, Lea, George Takei and Katie Rose Clarke

After the show, Pia had the opportunity to meet the cast of Allegiance. Lea was the first one to come out, and she immediately hugged and kissed Pia. She congratulated her for what she has achieved and gave her advice on how to enjoy living here in the Big Apple. She told her to visit museums and parks and to watch plays and musicals.

Pia listened intently to Lea the whole time. She later intimated to us that this was the first time she cried while watching a musical. “Miss Lea is truly world-class! I am a big fan. I still can’t believe I finally met her here in NYC,” she enthused.

After the short meet and greet, the amount of people waiting outside for the cast of Allegiance doubled when word came out that Miss Universe was still in the venue. Unknown to many, Pia was whisked off to another exit to avoid the multitude outside.