Lea Salonga, other theater legends, urge government and private sector to subsidize Pinoy talent
- Lea Salonga is urging the government and private firms to provide actual financial backing and education for the Philippine theater industry
- The Broadway star emphasizes that "Pinoy Pride" must translate into sustained funding rather than just seasonal praise for artists
- Rachelle Ann Go and Red Concepcion highlight the need for formal training to help Filipino performers compete on the global stage
- The cast of 'Les Misérables' describes the Manila audience as "electric," underscoring the deep local passion for the performing arts
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In a rallying cry for the future of Philippine performing arts, Broadway legend Lea Salonga emphasized that "Pinoy Pride" must evolve from mere social media applause into tangible financial and institutional backing.
Source: Instagram
Speaking at a press event on Monday, February 2, 2026, the Tony Award winner urged both the government and the private sector to prioritize the sustainability of the local theater industry.
The appeal came during an intimate dialogue with the Filipino cast members of the Les Misérables: The World Tour Spectacular. Lea was joined by fellow stars Rachelle Ann Go, Red Concepcion, and Emily Bautista.
While the presence of four Filipinos in a premiere global production serves as a testament to world-class local talent, Lea warned that natural ability is not a substitute for a robust support system.
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"Pinoy pride has to also come in the form of funding, actual financial backing, education, and training," the Broadway icon remarked.
She pointed out that while independent theater companies are doing their best to survive, there is a dire need for colleges, universities, and specialized training centers to receive more substantial assistance to nurture the next generation of performers.
Supporting Lea’s stance, Red Concepcion addressed aspiring artists, noting that the international stage requires more than just "heart."
He explained that for Filipinos to remain competitive globally, raw passion must be refined through formal training, an endeavor that requires significant funding.
Rachelle Ann Go also shared a vulnerable moment, recalling her early days in London’s West End. Despite her eventual success, she admitted to feeling immense insecurity due to a lack of formal theater background.
She noted that while Filipino discipline and resilience allowed her to thrive, proper institutional training could have eased that difficult transition for her and many others.
The cast expressed that performing in Manila holds a unique emotional weight. Lea described the local audience’s response as "electric," while Bautista noted that the engagement of Filipino fans made the international tour finally feel like a homecoming.
As the Philippine theater scene continues to rebound, the message from its biggest stars is clear: To keep the spotlight on Filipino talent, the nation must invest in the infrastructure that builds it.
By bridging the gap between talent and resources, the industry hopes to turn "Pinoy Pride" into a permanent, well-funded legacy.
Lea Salonga is a legendary theater performer and vocalist who gained global acclaim for her pioneering role in Miss Saigon. Her portrayal of Kim secured her a Tony Award, making history as the first woman of Asian descent to win the category. A celebrated Disney Legend, she also provided the iconic singing voices for Mulan and Princess Jasmine, cementing her status as a cultural icon.
Recently, Lea’s son, theater artist Nic Chien, in a deeply personal discussion with Korina Sanchez, detailed his path toward self-realization and the peace he has found in his current identity. Chien lauded his mother, Lea Salonga, for her immediate and non-judgmental embrace of his truth, noting how her acceptance provided a vital foundation for his confidence. Despite his parents' decision to separate, Chien emphasized that the household remains a unified front of love and mutual respect, prioritizing their collective well-being. Fresh off his personal disclosure, the young actor is set to take the stage as Moritz in the 2026 Manila production of Spring Awakening, showcasing his evolving talent in Makati.
Previously, he also reflected on nearly twelve months of hormonal therapy, sharing that the transition has significantly enhanced his self-esteem and general happiness. Chien highlighted that while his medical journey has been life-changing for him, he recognizes that the timeline and specific path of self-discovery are deeply personal to each individual. Discussing his 2025 chest reconstruction, the performer admitted to being surprised by the public’s reaction but expressed pride in his role as a visible representative for his community. Lea Salonga reiterated her commitment to raising her child in a safe environment, asserting that a parent’s duty is to empower their children to navigate the world as their truest selves.
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Source: KAMI.com.gh
