Marian Rivera awarded Best Foreign Artist in Vietnam, Rachelle Ann Go joins ‘Miss Saigon’

THERE is no shortage of talents in the Philippines that is why it is not surprising that our local artists are recognized not only in their own backyard, but also internationally.

Just recently, teleserye star and GMA 7 Kapuso talent Marian Rivera was named Best Foreign Artist of the Year by Face of the Year Awards of Today TV, one of the largest Vietnamese networks.

The network airs Filipino drama shows, and the award was done through public vote.  Marian’s series like Marimar, Dyesebel and Temptation of Wife are said to be a big hit in Vietnam that she was mobbed by fans during her visit in Hanoi last year.

Aside from the Best Foreign Artist of the Year recognition, Marian was also nomination as Best Actress during the 2013 Asian Television Awards.

Another Filipino who is making a break internationally is singer Rachelle Ann Go, who has just been accepted to play the role of “Gigi” in the revival of West End’s production of Miss Saigon.

Rachelle knows that with this opportunity comes hard work, that is why she is grateful for support and advice she has been getting from other stars who have starred in previous versions of the famous musical.

Broadway star and Tony awardee Lea Salonga, who played Kim in the original Miss Saigon, advised her to learn the British accent.

Stage actress Isay Alvarez, who played the role of Gigi for years, advised her not to fret and just to enjoy the experience.

Former Miss Saigon actress Joanna Ampil then advised Rachelle to try other things in London—like going to school for personal growth—as not to get bored because she will doing the same role everyday.  With this, the Kapuso actress is looking into a business or fashion class, hoping that she would be able to use the knowledge after her Miss Saigon stint is over.

For now, Rachelle is looking forward to being on her own in London, which also means putting her personal life on hold for now.  At the moment, she is dating former Pinoy Big Brother housemate Slater Young.

Rachelle will be flying to London in March and will stay there for 14 months.  She will be having a sendoff concert at the Meralco Theatre in Pasig on Saturday, February 22.