Add Row
Add Element
Broadway buzz logo
update
London's Broadway Buzz
update
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Star Stories
    • Backstage Access
    • Musical History
    • Broadway Talks
    • Weekly Wrap
    • Director's Cut
    • Fan Spotlight
    • London Music Scene
February 10.2025
3 Minutes Read

Lea Salonga and Son Nic Chien to Star in INTO THE WOODS in the Philippines

Young person with glasses smiling in a portrait, photorealistic style.

Lea Salonga and Nic Chien: A New Mother-Son Magic on Stage

This summer, theatergoers in the Philippines are in for a treat as famed musical star Lea Salonga takes the stage in a new production of Into The Woods. This time, she’s not just sharing the spotlight with renowned actors - her child, Nic Chien, will make his official debut as Jack. The dual starring roles of mother and son mark a special milestone for both, as they navigate the fantastical world created by Broadway legends Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine.

A Journey into a Musical Wonderland

In this upcoming production, Chien will portray the innocent and hopeful character of Jack, while Salonga will take on the more complex role of The Witch. In an interview, Nic expressed his excitement, explaining, “I’m very excited to play such an innocent character. Jack is pure, and it will be fun to explore his journey.” His appreciation for the musical's intricate storytelling and emotionally resonant lyrics highlights his deep connection to the craft.

Your Favorite Storybook Characters Come to Life

Into The Woods combines the tales of various beloved characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. The story follows the Baker and his wife, who wish for a child and face a series of challenges, including a Witch's curse. It’s a modern classic that resonates with audiences, exploring themes of ambition, dreams, and the complexity of wishes.

Proud Moments for Both Salonga and Chien

As seasoned as she is, Lea Salonga still finds immense joy in sharing the stage with her son. “I’m most looking forward to working with Nic! We’ve done numerous concerts over the years, but this will be our first musical together!” she shared. Their collaborative work promises to bring a unique energy to the stage, captivating audiences with their familial bond.

Career Highlights of Nic Chien

Before this exciting role, Nic Chien made waves in the theater world as Alice in Atlantis Productions’ Matilda. His journey into acting has been nothing short of impressive, earning a third-place finish at the English Speaking Union’s National Shakespeare Competition in 2023. This background underscores the commitment he brings to his art, further endearing him to fans as he embarks on his professional journey.

The Legacy of Into The Woods

First premiering on Broadway in 1987, Into The Woods garnered three coveted Tony Awards, continuing to be a staple in theater circles across the globe. With its themes of longing, aspirations, and the sometimes harsh truths of life, it remains an enduring piece of musical theater that captivates audiences young and old. The impact and relevance of its themes have allowed it to grow into a beloved classic, resulting in adaptations and performances around the world.

Performances in the Philippines

The staging of Into The Woods featuring Lea Salonga and Nic Chien will take place at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater from August 7 to August 24, 2025. As anticipation builds for this special event, audiences are sure to experience a remarkable blend of familial love, exceptional talent, and masterful storytelling.

Backstage Access

78 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
08.06.2025

Harvey Weinstein Pursues Legal Battle Over Finding Neverland Tour Profits

Update Harvey Weinstein Takes Legal Action Over Musical Profits In a recent turn of events in the world of theater, Harvey Weinstein has filed a lawsuit against Networks Presentations LLC, along with other producers of the national tour of Finding Neverland, seeking over $2.3 million. This lawsuit, lodged in New York's Supreme Court, highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the profits from the popular musical. Allegations and Financial Claims The crux of Weinstein's claim revolves around allegations that he was not only a co-owner of the tour but also entitled to various payments that he asserts were never honored. According to the lawsuit, Weinstein claims to have a 50% ownership stake in Finding Neverland, backed by promises of a minimum weekly advance of $4,000 and a share of net profits amounting to 27.5%. Despite this agreement, the document states that payments ceased after the tour commenced in October 2016, with no formal License or Producer Agreement ever executed between the parties. Weinstein also alleges that partners involved took an unauthorized 4% share of the tour’s gross proceeds, amounting to approximately $4.6 million. History of Legal Disputes This lawsuit isn’t Weinstein’s first rodeo regarding Finding Neverland. In July 2024, he filed another lawsuit for alleged unpaid fees of $500,000 linked to the same production. His attorney expressed this legal action was a last resort due to a lack of cooperation. Weinstein's Current Situation Adding complexities to this case is Weinstein’s current legal predicament. He is incarcerated in New York, awaiting a retrial following the overturning of his previous convictions on sexual assault charges. This new lawsuit could add another layer to his ongoing legal battles and financial woes. The Impact on Broadway and Beyond The outcome of this lawsuit could have wider implications for Broadway productions, particularly in how partnerships and financial agreements are structured. Industry experts may watch closely to see how both sides address the claims, especially in light of the fact that musical theater often involves many collaborating parties. This case also speaks volumes about the continuing aspects of accountability within show business. As one of the most public figures in the industry, every move Weinstein makes is scrutinized not only for its legal weight but for its potential impact on public perception of theater and those involved in its creation. Legal and Financial Implications for Producers The financial ramifications of this lawsuit are significant. If Weinstein's claims are found to be valid, it might encourage more transparency among producers and stricter adherence to contractual obligations within the theater sector. As producers seek to recover costs and maximize profits, this case might serve as a critical reminder of the need for clear agreements right from the start. Ultimately, as this legal saga unfolds, many will be left wondering not only about the fate of the production but also about the broader implications for the future of partnerships in theatrical ventures.

08.06.2025

Bowen Yang's Emotional Reaction to His LEGO Minifigure from Wicked

Update Bowen Yang's LEGO Minifigure: A Fan Dream Come True In a delightful moment on the TODAY Show, Bowen Yang expressed utter amazement when he was presented with a minifigure of his character Pfannee from the highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked. Yang, who is known for his humorous performances on SNL and as co-host of the popular podcast Las Culturistas, stated, "I'm blown away. I don't know what to say. As a LEGO kid and a LEGO adult... I can't believe I am a minifig. It is the honor of a lifetime." This heartfelt reaction highlights the profound impact that such collectibles can have on performers and fans alike. The Excitement Surrounding 'Wicked: For Good' Bowen Yang's Minifigure is part of a larger set linked to the upcoming release of Wicked: For Good, which promises to be a substantial addition to the beloved story. The LEGO set features key characters such as Glinda and Elphaba, and will officially hit shelves on September 1, 2025. Featuring over 1,300 pieces, this set is a testament to both the cult following of Wicked and the rising trend of integrating pop culture into LEGO's creative universe. 'Las Culturistas Culture Awards': A Celebration of Iconic Moments Yang's appearance on the TODAY Show coincided with the announcement of the Las Culturistas Culture Awards, an occasion recognizing the year's most iconic cultural moments across an array of categories. With awards including "Best Crier" and "Best Laugher," this year's nominations for Wicked further emphasize the musical's continued influence and popularity. Fans can look forward to a vibrant show with a mix of live performances and special celebrity guests, all highlighting the significance of these cultural events. Bringing New Dimensions to Classics The upcoming movie adaptation promises to deviate from the theatrical original, delving deeper into the backstories of characters like Glinda and Elphaba. Director Jon M. Chu aims to provide a fresh perspective by including elements—notably Glinda's wedding and new songs—that were not part of the original stage play. This creative decision might resonate well with established fans while drawing in new audiences, resulting in a dynamic narrative that speaks to the complexities of friendship and moral choices. What Lies Ahead for Fans of 'Wicked' As the film's release approaches, fans are eager to see how the iconic story of Wicked will evolve. The mix of nostalgia, new music, and redesigned characters will surely stir excitement in the community. Yang's emotional connection to his character, embodied in the LEGO minifigure, enhances the anticipation for what promises to be a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant film experience. Should you be as enthusiastic about these developments as the ardent fans and performers involved, keep your eyes peeled for more news as the release date approaches, and do not miss the chance to pre-order the stunning LEGO set!

08.04.2025

Jonathan Groff Receives Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts: What It Means for Artists

Update Jonathan Groff Honored with a Doctorate from Franklin and Marshall Jonathan Groff, known for his captivating performances on stage and screen, has recently been awarded an honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts by Franklin and Marshall College. This esteemed recognition was presented to him following a remarkable performance, marking a significant milestone in Groff's illustrious career. The Role of Education in Groff's Journey During the award ceremony, which was attended by fellow actors and fans, Groff expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing that teachers play an instrumental role in shaping the lives of their students. “This is a total surprise. I’m so honored, I’m so thrilled, and I just want to say before we go, that teachers are everything,” he stated, illustrating the profound impact of education on his artistic journey. Highlights of Jonathan Groff's Career With a career spanning theater, television, and film, Groff has left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. He is best recognized for his role as King George III in the groundbreaking musical Hamilton, which won 11 Tony Awards in 2016. His portrayal not only earned him a Tony nomination but also showcased his incredible vocal talent, contributing to the cast’s Grammy Award-winning original cast recording. Aside from his Broadway successes, Groff has appeared in significant films, including his recent feature in The Matrix Resurrections alongside major stars such as Keanu Reeves. His multifaceted talent even extends to producing, as demonstrated by his involvement in the HBO documentary, Spring Awakening: Those You've Known, which chronicles the reunion of the original cast of the celebrated musical. What This Honor Means for Aspiring Artists For many in the performing arts community, this honorary doctorate represents not just recognition of past achievements but also motivates aspiring artists to pursue their dreams. Groff’s journey—from a young drama student to a celebrated performer—serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for students who aspire to forge successful careers in the arts. Broadway: A Community of Support and Inspiration The Broadway community is known for its supportive relationships, and Groff's recent honor reinforces the importance of mentorship and communal growth within the industry. As Groff stated, the encouragement from his educators and fellow artists has significantly shaped his career path, showing that success is often built on collaborative efforts and support from others. As Groff continues to light up stages and screens, his receipt of the honorary doctorate is a wonderful reminder of the empire built by hard work, perseverance, and the invaluable gifts of knowledge and inspiration imparted by teachers. Whether you are an aspiring actor, a seasoned performer, or simply an admirer of the arts, Groff’s story can inspire you to recognize and appreciate the value of mentorship and lifelong learning. Keep following your passions, as they may lead you to your own remarkable achievements in the future.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*