Lea Salonga

Birthday: February 22, 1971

Lea Salonga is one of the most celebrated Filipino artists of all time and a global icon in musical theater. She is best known for her groundbreaking achievements on Broadway and the West End, where her exceptional vocal clarity, emotional precision, and commanding stage presence earned her international acclaim.

Lea made history as the first Asian woman to play Kim in Miss Saigon, a role that won her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. She further cemented her legacy as the singing voice of two iconic Disney princesses Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and Fa Mulan in Mulan making her voice part of global pop culture.

Beyond theater, Lea has enjoyed a successful recording career, headlined world tours, served as a judge on The Voice, and consistently represented Filipino excellence on the world stage.

Quick Navigation

Theater and Musical Highlights

  • Miss Saigon – Kim (Broadway and West End)
  • Les Misérables – Éponine and Fantine
  • Allegiance – Broadway
  • Once on This Island – Broadway revival
  • Here Lies Love – Broadway
  • Flower Drum Song – Revival

Film and Voice Work

  • Singing voice of Princess JasmineAladdin
  • Singing voice of Fa MulanMulan
  • Redwood Curtain
  • Yellow Rose (2020)

Achievements

  • Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical (Miss Saigon)
  • Olivier Award for Best Actress
  • Disney Legend Award recipient
  • Grammy Award nominations
  • One of the most awarded and respected Asian performers in theater history

Life and Public Image

  • Known for professionalism, humility, and advocacy for Asian representation
  • A strong voice for diversity and inclusion in global entertainment
  • Active mentor and inspiration to young performers worldwide
  • Frequently recognized as a cultural ambassador for the Philippines

Fun Facts

  • Discovered at a young age through theater and talent competitions
  • One of the few performers to win both Tony and Olivier Awards
  • Her Disney songs are among the most recognizable animated film vocals
  • Continues to perform internationally decades into her career