Teen starring in lead role in epic Miss Saigon love story

The 19-year-old Trinity Catholic College Auburn alumna deferred a law degree when she found out she had won the role, which she will be performing at the Sydney Opera House until October 13.
Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg’s musical charts the story of Kim, a Vietnamese war orphan who meets and falls in love with an American G.I, beginning an epic journey of love, loss and survival.
“When I got the call from my agent I was crying and jumping for joy,” Abigail said.
“The role of Kim is such an iconic role. Not only was she played by [fellow Filipina actress] Lea Salonga who I’ve always looked up to as a performer, the music itself is so incredible.”
Abigail began singing and acting at an early age and played the role of Alice in Matilda Jnr, The Musical at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre while in Years 5 and 6 at St John’s Catholic Primary School Auburn, and while in Year 9 at Trinity, she took part in Sydney Catholic Schools’ performing arts programs to further develop her vocal talent.
“I was very lucky that my school was very supportive of my dreams,” she said.
As the youngest in the rehearsal room, Abigail has embraced the challenge of reinterpreting the musical for a modern audience alongside her fellow actors.
“Miss Saigon deals with the sufferings of war, and all of those themes are embedded throughout the show – death, violence and lots of love as well,” she said.
“It’s been quite a journey, but I’ve been loving it.”
Details, bookings: opera.org.au.