Lea Salonga Is Never Getting Tired of Sondheim

A Legacy of Talent and Trailblazing

Lea Salonga’s career is a testament to her extraordinary talent and her ability to break barriers in the world of theater and music. Known globally for her iconic roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables, as well as her work as the singing voice behind two Disney princesses—Jasmine in Aladdin and Mulan in Mulan—Salonga has long been celebrated for her vocal prowess and emotional depth. However, her latest venture, Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends, a star-studded tribute to the legendary composer, has raised the question: can she master the complex, idiosyncratic world of Sondheim? The answer, as her performance in the show proves, is a resounding yes.

Embracing Sondheim: A New Challenge

Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends is no ordinary tribute. Featuring over three dozen songs from Sondheim’s most iconic musicals, including West Side Story, Gypsy, and Into the Woods, the show demands nothing less than vocal and acting excellence. For Salonga, taking on roles like Momma Rose from Gypsy or Mrs. Lovett from Sweeney Todd—with her signature Cockney accent—is a bold step into uncharted territory. While she admits the challenge is daunting, her commitment to the craft is unwavering. “I’m getting the chance to sing some of the most incredible lyrics ever written,” she says, emphasizing her excitement to dive headfirst into Sondheim’s extraordinary work.

Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga: A Dynamic Duo

Sharing the stage with the incomparable Bernadette Peters, who herself has left an indelible mark on Sondheim’s repertoire, Salonga has earned high praise from her co-star. “Lea has one of the great Broadway voices,” Peters remarks, “and she just brings down the house.” The chemistry between the two performers is undeniable, and their collaboration in Old Friends is a highlight of the production. For Salonga, working alongside Peters is not just a professional honor but also a reminder of the legacy of talent that Sondheim’s music has inspired.

Advocacy and Representation: A Lasting Impact

Beyond her artistic achievements, Salonga has long been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. Her breakout roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables marked historic milestones, as she became the first Asian actor to play Éponine and Fantine on Broadway. Her advocacy extends beyond the stage; she has been a prominent voice in the fight against racial discrimination, particularly during the #StopAsianHate movement in 2021. Her influence extends to the next generation of performers, many of whom cite her as an inspiration. As director Matthew Bourne notes, “She’s obviously been a big voice for diversity in casting from the very beginning.”

A Career of Leaps and Legacies

Salonga’s career is defined by its bold choices and trailblazing moments. From her early days as a child star in the Philippines to her groundbreaking roles on Broadway, she has consistently challenged herself and the industry. One of her most memorable roles was in David Henry Hwang’s 2001 revival of Flower Drum Song, a musical that had faced criticism for its outdated portrayal of Asian characters. Her participation in the production was a leap of faith, but it also marked a turning point in her career, as she helped reshape the narrative of Asian representation in theater.

Looking Ahead: Sondheim and Beyond

As Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends prepares for its Broadway run, Salonga is already looking to the future. After her stint in Los Angeles and New York, she will return to the Philippine stage to perform in a production of Into the Woods, playing the Witch—a role she first took on decades ago. For Salonga, the journey is far from over. “I’m getting to do all kinds of Sondheim now,” she says with enthusiasm. “If I could just do Sondheim until the day I die, I’d be happy.” Her dedication to her craft, her advocacy for representation, and her ability to inspire both audiences and fellow performers ensure that her legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.

A Life of Purpose and Passion

Reflecting on her career, Salonga remains humble and grounded, attributing her success to hard work, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. “The goal isn’t to be 100 percent perfect at everything