Kuala Lumpur : Thousands at memorial for Leslie Cheung
April 12 2003, Overview by Liz
For a minute on April 12, 2003 (Saturday) night, more than 4,000 people sent a silent prayer to wish beloved gor gor, Leslie Cheung the peace that he failed to find in this world.
Local fans gathered at the memorial for gor gor organised by Chinese radio station 98.8 and production house Venus Creative.
Many came in black, to show their sorrow over death of the flamboyant artist and perfectionist, who endeared himself to millions of Chinese around the world with a variety of songs, ranging from the upbeat "Monica" to the emotional "The Wind Will Continue To Blow". As Leslie's songs resonated in the memorial held at the exhibition hall of the Megamall shopping arena, many dabbed their eyes with tissue and shook their heads in disbelief that the singer, who had once told the world he was a strong-willed and determined person, would choose to end his life so tragically.
"His songs accompanied us through our trials and tribulations. I had the opportunity to interviewed him when he came here for his concert in 2000. I was nervous meeting a superstar with a gigantic image. But he calmed me with his smile, asking me to relax and reasured me that we could redo the interview if there were mistakes," said 98.8 deejay, the emcee for the night.
He added that the idea of organising the memorial came from fans who had been ringing the station non-stop since April 1 to express their sadness and eagerness to gather in memory of the Legend.
There was one ardent fan who was the first from the audience to take the microphone and express his feelings, thanked the organisers for their sensitivity to the fans. "There are so many of us who love Leslie, for his perfectionism and for his wonderful songs and movies. I am hurt by his death and...," his voice trailed off as he was overcome by grief. |
