On ‘courageous’ Catriona’s wish list: Lea Salonga

Catriona Gray (left) and Lea Salonga

While she’s open to exploring different fields in show biz now that her reign as Miss Universe is over, music is what Catriona Gray really wants to focus on.

And if given the opportunity, the 26-year-old beauty queen, who’s also a singer, would love to share the stage with Lea Salonga.

That, she said, would be a dream come true.

“That would be amazing. I have always looked up to her since I was a little girl. I admire how she was able to elevate Filipino talents to the international stage,” she told reporters in an interview for her recent guest hosting stint in “It’s Showtime.”

“Some of my favorite films growing up were ‘Mulan’ and ‘Aladdin.’ She’s really one of my idols,” added Catriona, who has a master’s certificate in music theory from Berklee College of Music in Boston, United States.

Would she also like to do theater work in the future? “I love watching musicals. And I was part of a local production of ‘Miss Saigon’ when I was 15. I hope I can explore that,” she said.

For 2020, one of Catriona’s goals is to pursue a new endeavor “without fears.” “I have done it before in winning Miss Universe. And I don’t want to be fearful again in taking on something new. I hope to be always courageous,” she said.

Catriona, who’s also writing a book on top of her recent hosting and singing gigs, also intends to stay mindful of everyone who has helped her in her journey.

“This goes to the people who have guided and mentored me. They are the reasons people like me are able to do what we do. It takes a whole village,” the beauty queen said.