Congratulations to our teacher Leon on completing a new album recording! ✨
Recently, the Palladium Theatre and Lyric Theatre in London just finished the performances of the musical "Death Note." Adapted from the bestselling Japanese manga, the story follows a genius high school student's attempt to create a crime-free new world using the Death Note and the suspenseful cat-and-mouse game with the investigator L.
In addition to the live production, Ghostlight Records is set to release the soundtrack, featuring vocal talents such as Adam Pascal from "School of Rock," Joaquin Pedro Valdes from "Dagim," and Dean John Wilson from the musical "Aladdin."
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✨Interview Time ✨
【 Q1 】What are your thoughts on the "Death Note" musical?❓
I'm really looking forward to it! This is an original musical adaptation of a popular Japanese manga, but it was firstly reimagined in the United States! It's quite rare to see an East Asian story featured in Western countries, and this provides more opportunities for Asian musical theatre actors.
Moreover, in this UK production, most actors have Asian heritage, but some of the characters are portrayed by a caucasian actors! So, this work is truly a fusion of East and West, and I genuinely, genuinely, genuinely can't wait. Hopefully next year when they bring on more shows, everyone will have the chance to see the live performance!
【 Q2 】How does it feel to record a musical album?❓
Honestly, this is my first time recording an original cast musical album! I'm incredibly grateful to be part of "Death Note," a story I've known since my childhood. As an Asian musical actor, getting to work on a story like this in the UK is deeply moving and tremendously exciting!
【 Q3 】How was this album recorded? Can you share the production process?❓
Recording this time was quite challenging, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! As ensemble singers, our job was to create the atmosphere, add depth, and play various roles to enrich the entire story through each song.
We needed around 20 singers to record simultaneously, and our pitch, rhythm, breathing, emotions, and even the timing of pauses had to be highly synchronised. (Editor's note: What if someone went off-key...)
Oh, and there was one thing that was truly amusing. During the recording, there was a metronome providing a constant beat! In such an environment, we had to infuse our emotions, which was a significant test of our professionalism.
Anyways, it was an unforgettable experience, and I'm absolutely thrilled and honoured.
【 Q4 】Did anything interesting happen during the two days of recording the album?❓
Absolutely! On the first day when we all gathered, I met a friend who also graduated from RAM. I also got to know people from the Asian community who were trying to make their mark in London. We all went to a Filipino restaurant together, and we discussed what other authentic Asian cuisine was available in the area. It's truly a conversation I rarely get to have in London!
Those two days were truly dreamlike. London is undeniably a city brimming with diverse cultures. Once again, thanks to this opportunity that allowed me to meet so many interesting people and to be part of such a classic work.
【 Q5 】The album hasn't been officially released yet. Can you give us a hint about your role in the singing? 🤏
Well, about that... This time, I was part of the ensemble for the album. In these six songs, I play different roles according to the situations. For instance, when the death god Kira appears, we join in as a chorus of supporters. When “events” unfold, we become ordinary folks in flight. And when the main character experiences romance... we become the little angels by their side👼💗
Additionally, apart from singing the high notes with everyone, in this ensemble, there's only one person responsible for the baritone part. Perhaps you can take a guess😏.
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No matter if you're a die-hard fan of "Death Note" or a musical enthusiast, feel free to leave a comment below and share your thoughts on the fusion of Japanese manga and musical theatre! Lets eagerly anticipate the musical album featuring Mr. Leon✨
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