Lea Salonga reflects on progress for Asian artists during Singapore Les Misérables run
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · May 4
Lea Salonga reflects on progress for Asian artists during Singapore Les Misérables run
8 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 4
In Les Misérables The Arena Spectacular, she performs alongside Nathania Ong, 28, the first Singaporean Eponine on the West End, in a role Salonga says once made her an "experiment".
Salonga recalled that even after winning a Tony in 1991, she was rejected for roles because she was Asian, while Ong said representation has improved but artists still question whether hiring reflects talent or diversity targets.
She said progress now extends beyond casting to Asian-created work, citing South Korean musical Maybe Happy Ending, BTS and a DreamWorks film based on Philippine folklore that she is working on.
Is Hollywood's embrace of mixed-race stars creating a new glass ceiling for other Asian actors?
Are K-pop and Filipino folklore films a sign of cultural power or just the next profitable trend for global entertainment?
Lea Salonga’s Transformative Journey Through Les Misérables: From Pioneering Éponine to Villainous Madame Thénardier in the 2026 Arena Spectacular
Overview
Lea Salonga is currently starring as the comedic villain Madame Thénardier in the innovative Les Misérables Arena Spectacular at Singapore's Sands Theatre, running from March to May 2026. This large-scale production, launched in 2024 and designed with cinematic projections and a concert-style format, prioritizes major Asian markets before Western venues. Salonga's evolving journey through three iconic roles in Les Misérables highlights her artistic growth and versatility, inspiring a new generation of Asian performers. Her performances across Asia, including Manila and upcoming concerts in Kuala Lumpur, amplify her cultural influence and boost regional arts and tourism. The Arena Spectacular sets a new global standard for musical theatre touring, expanding audience reach and celebrating diverse talent.