Ep 837: Lea Salonga on Breaking Barriers With Miss Saigon and Becoming Two Disney Princesses

On this powerful episode of Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., host Linda Mitchell welcomes Lea Salonga, Tony Award winner, Disney Legend, and iconic vocalist whose career spans Broadway and film. From Miss Saigon to Les Misérables, and from voicing Disney Princesses Jasmine and Mulan to her current Broadway and TV work (Old Friends, Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, Yellow Rose), Lea's artistry has inspired generations. Now, she takes her fans on a musical journey with her Stage, Screen & Everything in Between tour — a celebration of her landmark roles, timeless songs, and evolving creative voice. Join us as Lea reflects on groundbreaking moments, the power of representation in theater, and what it means to sustain a legendary career across decades. 🌟 Main Themes Breaking barriers & representation — being the first Asian actress in key Broadway roles and using her platform to open doors Legacy through voice — Disney roles, Broadway, and how her voice has resonated across generations Balancing evolution & roots — staying relevant while honoring one's musical and cultural foundations Touring & reinvention — how to keep performances fresh and meaningful through a long career Advice for the next generation — guidance, resilience, and navigating the arts with purpose ❓ Key Questions Asked Part 1: Legacy & Milestones Looking back on your Tony-winning Miss Saigon, how did that role shape your journey? You broke ground as the first Asian actress to play Eponine (and later Fantine) on Broadway — what did those milestones mean to you personally? Among your many iconic roles, which one stretched you the most as a performer? Part 2: Disney, Voice & Cultural Impact 4. Hundreds of millions heard your singing voice as Jasmine and Mulan — did you ever imagine those roles would become so defining? 5. Being named a Disney Legend is a rare honor — what was that moment like for you? 6. How does performing as a voice actor for animation compare to performing live on stage? Part 3: The Tour & Current Projects 7. You're touring 30+ North American cities with Stage, Screen & Everything in Between — what can fans expect from these concerts? 8. Having toured globally over many years, how do you keep performances fresh and exciting for yourself and your audiences? 9. How does working on screen today (with Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, Yellow Rose, etc.) excite you compared to stage work? 10. With such a storied career, what advice would you offer the next generation of artists dreaming of stage or screen? 🔗 Links & Resources Official Website / Tour Info: leasalonga.com/tour Lea Salonga Tour Details / Announcement: "Stage, Screen & Everything In Between" is visiting 30+ cities across North America in fall 2025. Press Lea Salonga — Disney Legend profile (D23): her recognition as a Disney Legend, and her roles voicing Jasmine & Mulan D23 About Lea & Broadway milestones: she was the first Asian actress to play Eponine on Broadway and later played Fantine; her numerous awards and impact on representation Lea Salonga