Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, star of Next To Normal: ‘That I inspire people to be better’

Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo is one of the most accomplished musical theater performers in the country. She is fondly known in theater circles as The First Lady of Philippine Musical Theater. Her illustrious career has seen her play roles such as Eva Peron in Evita, Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd, Aldonza in Man Of La Mancha, Guinevere in Camelot,Maria in The Sound Of Music, Cathy in The Last Five Years,Nancy in Oliver, Arlene in Baby and Velma in Hairspray, among many others.

In March, Menchu takes on the biggest challenge of her career as Diana in the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning rock musical Next To Normal, which runs at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City from March 11 to 27. Diana is perhaps one of the most demanding roles written for a female performer, both vocally and emotionally. Directed by Bobby Garcia, Next To Normal explores the lengths to which we will go to keep ourselves sane and our families in place. Bobby says of Menchu, “Menchu is a gem in the musicaltheater world. She is as fascinating an actress as she is a singer. One of the very few in our industry who can do it all. And a genuine and good friend, to top it off.”

Menchu will also be releasing a CD-Lite of five songs Sony Music will release to coincide with the opening of Next To Normal. The CD will feature songs from shows Menchu has performed in, including two songs from Next To Normal. For tickets, call Atlantis Productions at 892-7078 or 840-1187.

Let’s look at what Menchu thinks about various topics:

1. What other talent would you like to have aside from music and acting and why?

“Painting, since it’s such a great way to express yourself.”

2. Are you afraid of getting old?

“No, not at all… in fact I welcome it.”

3. What was the best thing said about you?

“That I inspire people to be better.”

4. What is the most romantic place on earth for you and why?

“I think anywhere can be romantic as long as you are with the person you love.” 

5. How do you pray?

“Quietly.”

6. If you were a movie or a play what would its title be?

“There’s something about Menchu.”

7. What color describes your life? Why?

“Red and blue. Passionate and peaceful at the same time.”

8. How would you describe your state of mind?

“Stable. Hahahaha!”

9. If you are Superwoman, who is your Superman?

“My husband Sel.”

10. What is your greatest fear?

“A family member suffering from a terminal disease.”

11. What makes you laugh?

“A great joke!”

12. The best gift you have ever received from a loved one?

“Hmmmm. God has given me the best gift, my children.” 

13. What role would you not play?

“Any role that requires me to take off my clothes. Don’t think I could do that.”

14. Who is you favorite singer? Why? Your least favorite?

“Barbra Streisand is my favorite. She gives so much emotion to her songs. You really feel her, that’s what sets her apart. I don’t have a least favorite, I just don’t listen to bad singers.”

15. If you were a tree, what would you be? Why?

“A cherry blossom tree. Cherry blossoms are an omen of good fortune and are also an emblem of love, affection and it represents spring. I love new beginnings, which is what spring is all about. And seeing a tree in full bloom always makes me smile. ”

16. What is your philosophy in life?

“Do unto others what you would want others to do unto you.”

17. If you were to confess only one sin to God, what would it be and why?

“Well, that would be between God and me.”

18. The most photogenic face in the world?

“Catherine-Zeta Jones.”

19. If you were a flower, what would you be and why?

“A gardenia, I love the purity and simplicity of the flower. Plus I love the scent.”

20. If you were a fictional character, who would you be? Why?

“A secret agent! I would love the adventure and the thrill of the hunt.”

21. Where do you think you would go? Heaven or hell? Why?

“Heaven, I hope.”

22. Who is the most beautiful person in the world and why?

“My mother, she is beautiful in every way conceivable.”

23. Write your epitaph?

“A loving wife and mother who always gave her best in everything she did.”

24. Given the opportunity to come face to face with God, what question would you ask him?

“Why do little children have to suffer?”

25. If you had a third eye, where would it be located?

“At the back of my head, so I could see things done behind my back.”

26. Thirty years from now, where are you and what are you doing?

“Hopefully, still very much involved in theater.”