Lea Salonga and Raymond Lauchengco on their New Year's Eve concert, their passions and what matters most

Probably the hottest ticket for New Year's Eve that people are talking about is the "Symphony of the Stars" gala of multi-awarded Broadway luminary Lea Salonga and OPM icon Raymond Lauchengco at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort Entertainment City.

- RICKY TOLEDO & CHITO VIJANDRE

The two actually go a long way back, having performed as children in Repertory Philippines' The King and I in 1978 and The Sound of Music in 1980. Together with musical director Gerard Salonga conducting the Filharmonika Orchestra, it promises to be an elegant, unforgettable evening of world-class performances of beloved theatre pieces, classics, and heartfelt melodies to ring in 2026.

The Philippine STAR recently caught up with the two stars to talk about their upcoming concert, their passions, and their hopes for the New Year.

PHILIPPINE STAR: What can the audience expect in your New Year's Eve concert?

LEA SALONGA: Nothing else but good spirits and positive vibes to usher in a brand new year. It's always such a fun time doing a show on New Year's Eve, as everyone is so ready to turn over a new leaf and get things going afresh.

RAYMOND LAUCHENGCO: It'll be the very first collaboration between Lea — an international star, a Disney princess, and a national treasure — and myself, a certified original Bagets! So expect the unexpected.

How will it be different from the past concerts you have done?

LEA: Hmmm... there usually isn’t a theme attached. We just pick the most fun material from our respective repertoires and go from there.

RAYMOND: The mere fact that Lea will be there will make all the difference. Filharmonika as well — a 24-piece orchestra conducted by Maestro Gerard Salonga, no less. It’s a dream come true for me to share the stage with Lea again after a very long time.

Have you ever performed together?

LEA: Oh, my God, yes! We entered the world of musical theater at the same time in Repertory Philippines' The King and I. Safe to say we go way, way, way back. We also got to play siblings in The Sound of Music and have crossed paths many times since.