Key Points
- Her mother, a Filipina sang her way through college at her aunt's restaurant, Cherry Blossom in Surigao.
- Growing up in Quensland, Kimberley would perform at Filipino community events.
- Kimberley's baon (packed melas) became very famous with her fellow actors backstage.
Playing Anita at The on Sydney Harbour is a bit more challenging for Kimberley compared to her other roles, 'the stage is on a scaffolding on the water, you're in the elements. Sometimes it raining, sometimes its windy and it can get cold too.'
Spreading Pinoy love
During the staging of Miss Saigon in Sydney, Abigial Adriano's Filipina mom was their source of Pinoy love. 'Her Tinola's (Filipino style Chicken soup) were the best, she'd send heaps when we were all tired and needed a little love.' recalls the Filipina Australian performer.
While her Filipino culinary skills are limited, she has mastered tow of the most important Filipino dish underestimated, 'I can make a decent chicken adobo and a decent pansit (noodles)'.
Ficve years ago, when she played understudy for Anita, she brought home cooked packed meals during rehersals. 'I had more time back then, I would make my own version of chicken soup. I remember it was a rainy and cold season. I would sit on my chair in the corridor and everyone would smell the soup. Eventually, they added a table, flowers and fairy lights and I would bring extra food,snacks and boiled eggs. It became our little corner, they called the place Kim's cafe.'
LISTEN TO
Pinoy Moms' home-cooked meal fuel the talents behind Miss Saigon
SBS Filipino
01/12/202326:02
