‘Miss Saigon’ star Kiara Dario calls for support in P-pop, local art

Kiara Dario. Image: Instagram/@kiaramiren

Kiara Dario is living the best of both worlds as a performer. She stars as Gigi Van Tranh in Cameron Mackintosh’s production of “Miss Saigon” which is currently staging in the Philippines and she’s also a member of the P-pop girl group Daydream.

Citing her roots, Dario believes theater played a huge role in “every aspect of [her] performing” abilities. She also noted that her members come from “different performing backgrounds” which is one of their strengths as a trio.

“I’m in theater, Pau is also in theater and she’s a livestreamer. Our other member Denise is a host and she was a cheerleader,” she said during a media call for the classic musical. “What I love about P-pop and theater is that it feels almost similar. It’s a culmination of different types of performing arts. I think it’s not a separate thing.”

Kiara Dario as Gigi in “Miss Saigon.” Image: Courtesy of Andrew Beveridge via GMG Productions

Dario said her performing roots are credited to the “extra” nature of Filipinos. “What I love about the Philippines is that we excel in these types of arts. We like to be extra. It’s such a valuable trait to have when it comes to theater and pop,” she said. This prompted her to call for widespread support in local performing arts and other related industries.

“The only reason I’m standing here today is because of the training and amazing exposure to Philippine art I get to live with everyday,” she said.

“There are so many musicals and plays running right now. I feel like it’s the golden age of Philippine theater. It’s the first time seeing so many shows run at the same time. We also have so many Philippine pop artists like SB19 and BINI,” she further said.

The theater actress pointed out that Filipino performers have what it takes to make it big. However, she believes that support is what is crucial to the rise of the Philippines when it comes to these industries.

“If you love ‘Miss Saigon’ and art, please support Filipino artists. We know the talent is there. All that is missing is the support from the people, government, and institutions. Please give Filipino artists the support and respect they deserve,” Dario said.

Dario was announced to star as one of the principal cast of “Miss Saigon” in January 2024. In the same media call, she said one of the reasons why the classic musical remains relevant is how it “strikes a chord” on issues like “female exploitation and female power.”

The theater actress and singer debuted as a member of Daydream in April 2021. Among the songs included in the female trio’s discography are “Stay Stuck,” “Lumayo,” “Fallin’ 4 U,” and “Fallin’ 4 U (Dream Version).”