The Foreign Service Institute won first prize for its Lion King musical presentation at “The DFA Goes Broadway!” competition held at the Bulwagang Apolinario Mabini on 15 December 2011.

FSI received the cash prize of P50,000 for participating in the department-wide Christmas presentation. The group of offices led by Protocol, PISU, IAC and TCCP won second place for their performance of “The Phantom of the Opera” while the “Jersey Boys” presented by OSEC and the offices under its supervision won third place.

On top of the cash prize, Secretary Albert Del Rosario gave an additional P10,000 to all participating groups in the competition.

Acclaimed in Broadway for the use of breathtaking fusion of puppetry and human performance, “The Lion King” musical tells the story of Simba’s adventures as he struggles to accept his responsibilities as the future king of Pride Rock.

FSI’s performance was a product of the collective effort of the men and women in the Institute after weeks of grueling rehearsals and meticulous props making. Their rendition of “Circle of Life” drew applause and standing ovations from the audience and judges.

The FSI personnel were duly recognized for their talent and creativity and efforts for producing a musical that surpassed the expectations of many.