Home, sweet home . . . kinda

The author (left) and newly minted Tony nominee Eva Noblezada (Facebook)

NEW YORK—Ah, there’s no place like this place, the city I consider my second home. From the moment I first stepped onto the pavement, I knew I had fallen in love. That was over 26 years ago, and the love affair continues.

I shall be in town for a couple of weeks for a return engagement at Feinstein’s/54 Below. In the spring of 2016, I made my debut in this beautiful cabaret space.

It was such a good time that an invitation to return was extended—and for an extended run! I shall be spending two straight weeks at Feinstein’s/54 Below, singing all kinds of material ranging from Gershwin to Legend, from Bonnie Raitt to One Direction, plus a smattering of musical theater.

From my engagement last year came an album titled “Blurred Lines,” after the hit song by Robin Thicke. Yes, that song has made it to the repertoire, but the title alludes more to the blurring of genre lines between the songs. Pop songs are given a more jazzy treatment, and standards are blasted with bossa.

All in all, it makes for a fun evening to sing—and, once the patrons have had something to drink, a little more animated and loud.

So, please join me! I’ll be there from May 9 to 22 at 7 p.m. (with one additional show on May 20, at 9:30 p.m.).

And the nominees are…
Recently, one of the most exciting days in the world of theater came to pass: the announcement of the Tony Awards nominations. I happened to be in Phoenix, Arizona, and woke up early to check the news. What a thrill for the newly minted nominees to receive their nods!

The revival production of “Miss Saigon” received two such nods: one for Eva Noblezada (best actress in a musical) and another for the show itself (best revival). Needless to say, I’m very excited for everyone in the show, and wish the other nominees in all categories the very best.

For the full list of nominees, visit www.TonyAwards.com. The awards will be given out on June 11 at Radio City Music Hall.

Salamat, Kapamilya
To all the fans and friends of “The Voice Teens,” thank you so much again for your tireless support! Last weekend’s shows came in with ratings of 34 percent for Saturday and 35 percent for Sunday.

Added to each team are the following: Fatima Espiritu, Jomar Pasaron and Felipe de Leon for FamiLea; Kathlene and Arlene Badong, Mike Ruiz and Heather Hawkins on Team Sharon; Gia Gonzales and Fatima Lagueras on Team Sarah; and, finally, DJ Caoile on Kamp Kawayan.

Tune in next week to meet more talented teens! Have you picked a favorite yet?

The author at Feinstein’s/54 Below (LeaSalonga.com)