5 June 1944: Colm Wilkinson born


Colm Wilkinson represented Ireland with 'Born to sing' at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1978. This was one year after his self-titled debut album. The song was performed first on the night, and was a rather impressive display of vocal performance.

Subsequently, Wilkinson became best known for originating the role of Jean Valjean in Les Misérables (in the West End and Broadway) and for taking the title role in The Phantom of the Opera at the Sydmonton Festival and in the original Canadian production. His versions of both "The Music of the Night" from Phantom and "Bring Him Home" from Les Misérables are acclaimed throughout the world; fans insist he perform them at all his concerts.

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