Industry in shock as RJ Rosales dies
The Australian theatre industry is in shock following the death of RJ Rosales.
The 37-year-old died in Sydney last weekend (December 5).
Rosales was best known for his performance in the Australian production of Miss Saigon, in which his portrayal of Thuy earned him a Helpmann Award nomination.
Details of his death are yet to be confirmed.
In his blog, the respected Australian theatre star Flip Simmons said: “I’m absolutely shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of RJ Rosales.”
He added: “I first met RJ when I did a musical with him, when I was 17 years old. I knew exactly who he was when he walked into the rehearsal room because, when I was 15, I saw him sing at the Grand Philippine Fiesta, in Sydney, where I was completely blown away by his song and the power of his voice. I was SO inspired. I taped his performance and used to sing along to it – I never told him this, out of sheer embarrassment. I wish I had… I’m sure he would have loved it.”
Another tribute on Facebook said: “May you rest in peace, keep singing in heaven.”
Read our tribute for RJ Rosales