Lea Salonga Looks Upon Her Ongoing Legacy: “I’m hoping to not be the last.”

Philippine talent has always been deserving of recognition on a global scale. Yet if there’s one figure who has managed to put our country on the map in that sense, it would be Lea Salonga.

As one of the trailblazers in the realm of musical theater, Salonga has amassed an unparalleled legacy that spans over four decades. From her groundbreaking role as Kim in Miss Saigon — a performance that earned her a Laurence Olivier Award and a Tony Award, making her the first Asian woman to do so — to her unforgettable portrayals of Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables, Salonga has proven time and again that her talent knows no bounds. Her illustrious career extends beyond Broadway and the West End; she became the voice behind Disney princesses Jasmine and Mulan, further cementing her influence in both Western and Asian pop culture.

Her accomplishments have not only elevated her as an icon but have also paved the way for countless Filipino artists aspiring to make a mark internationally. And while her list of accolades from prestigious institutions around the world is extensive, her recent receipt of the Tanging Parangal ng CCP (Cultural Center of the Philippines) holds particular weight. This highest honor bestowed by the CCP is a testament to her enduring influence and impact on Philippine arts and culture.

Receiving the Tanging Parangal honor is more than just an award — it’s a recognition of Salonga’s role in shaping the Philippine performing arts landscape. For a career that has inspired generations, this honor reflects her significance not only as a performer but also as a cultural ambassador, whose talents and efforts have made the world sit up and take notice of Filipino excellence.

As Salonga receives such a distinguished award, she sits down with Billboard Philippines for a quick chat to reflect upon her legacy in the field of music and theater, and what advice she has to share for aspiring artists who aim to follow in her accomplished footsteps.

Billboard Philippines: How does it feel to have played a significant role in putting the Philippines on the global theater map?

To be honest it wasn’t something I was thinking about; it was more of just not wanting to let down the folks from home while doing the various shows I was doing. That was it. It wasn’t really ever about putting the Philippines on the map. The intent was just to do good work, and hope that it was good enough.

It feels good though to be considered as one of the forces that helped make this happen!

What do you consider the most pivotal moment in your career?

I have to include getting selected to play the role of Kim in Miss Saigon, but I also need to include being asked to play Eponine in Les Misérables. This was a role that I was obsessed with for a while, but I never thought that I would ever get the chance to play [her] — because all the roles in Les Miz were often played by Caucasian actors! So, to be an actor of color invited to the Les Miz part felt like such a huge opportunity. I needed to sing that big song well every night. The stakes were high with this one.

Can you share your thoughts on receiving the Gawad CCP Para Sa Sining, and how this recognition reflects your contributions to theater and music?

It’s funny, actually… receiving awards is nice. I can’t ever begrudge them or be ungrateful for them. It’s wonderful getting this kind of recognition from the CCP. If nothing else, it affords me the time and the space to publicly express my thanks to the village that enabled and encouraged my career — from my first mentors to my most frequent and current collaborators, my friends and family, and my fans who make all of this possible.

How would you say this award compares to other prestigious recognitions you’ve received throughout your career?

I don’t compare the awards; one is not more or less prestigious than another. Yet with that being said, getting recognized by an award-giving body from my home will always feel sweeter.

What do you hope your legacy as an artist will be for future generations of Filipino performers?

Only that there is much that is possible, and that I’m hoping to not be the last. I wish that there will be more younger theater folks that take up this vocation. It’s a lot of sacrifice, but it’s worth it, especially if you’re willing to work hard and if you have the love to tell stories.

How do you think Filipino talent is being received globally today, and how has that changed since the start of your career?

I’d like to think that Pinoy talent is being received very well! If nothing else, there certainly are more of us, and not just in theater — but also in music, film and television, fashion, and business.

What advice would you give to young Filipino artists aspiring to perform on international stages?

Be ready to work really hard and give up a lot. The performing arts are not for the faint of heart!

In what ways do you feel the Philippine theater industry can grow to achieve even greater international recognition?

For me, it’s not really about wanting to penetrate the marketplace. We just have to make incredible art. The rest of the world will get it if the quality is truly world-class. In other words, mediocrity won’t fly. And it should never be acceptable.

Are there any roles or projects that you still dream of pursuing, and how do you envision the next chapter of your career?

At this point, I’m content with how my career and my life are going, that I just want to keep doing it. Thankfully I was given a clean bill of health at my last checkup, which I take as a sign to keep doing what I’m doing! That’s it! 

No lofty ambitions, no dream roles… All I want is to keep singing and acting for as long as I’m physically able to.

Listen to Lea Salonga’s most recent live album, Live In Concert With The Sydney Symphony Orchestra, below:

Photographed by Ennuh Tiu, assisted by Enzo Santos. Art direction and final layout by Kenneth Dimaano. Shoot coordination by Marvin Mancera.