Lea Salonga pays tribute to Celia Diaz-Laurel
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Award-winning actress and singer, Lea Salonga, pens a heartfelt message for the late theater icon
Broadway star and singer Lea Salonga paid a special tribute to the late stage actress Celia Diaz-Laurel and recalled her precious memories with the Philippine theater legend.
The Tony award-winning actress wrote, “We've lost another theater institution.”
“Celia Diaz-Laurel passed away last night, leaving behind a legacy of design, beauty, and performance.”
Lea also reminisced about the first time she worked with the late stage icon.
“I first worked with her when I was Princess Ying Yawolak to her Lady Thiang in 'The King and I' in 1978.”
Photo courtesy: msleasalonga (IG)
“She was also the costume designer, and the pieces constructed of pink silk and gold thread she put me in made me feel like a princess (the second photo was me in Annie which she also did the costumes for. The blue coat was one of my favorites)
The renowned singer also briefly narrated one unforgettable moment with Celia.
Photo courtesy: msleasalonga (IG)
“The first picture was when she played my mother in 'The Bad Seed.' I will never forget how her face and her smile could light up my room," she shared.
"I'll always remember the parties she threw in the backyard of the Shaw Blvd. home she shared with Tito Doy.”
“Rest In Peace, Tita Celia… and thank you for your kindness.”
Kapuso actress Manilyn Reynes replied to Lea Salonga's post and wrote, “May her soul rest in peace.”
Photo courtesy: msleasalonga (IG)
On July 12, stage actress Celia Diaz-Laurel passed away at the age of 93.
She was the wife of former Vice President Salvador Laurel and the mother of actor Victor and singer Iwi Laurel.
Celia Diaz-Laurel is survived by her six children namely Suzie, Lynnie, Cocoy, David, and Larry, and Iwi.
The legendary theater star also achieved notable recognition over the years and made many contributions in the field of Philippine theater and the arts.
Meanwhile, let us honor the celebrities and personalities that we lost in 2021 in this gallery:
