Review: Lea Salonga Brings STAGE, SCREEN & EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN to Benaroya Hall

There’s truly no feeling quite like being in the presence of a legend. As the live band launched into an overture stitched together from the greatest hits of a long and decorated career, it became instantly clear that Benaroya Hall was packed wall-to-wall with devoted fans of Filipino icon Lea Salonga. The Seattle stop of her Stage, Screen & Everything In Between tour crackled with energy. It was electric, joyful, and, as Salonga herself noted with a laugh, impressively rowdy.

You may know Lea Salonga as the unmistakable voice behind Disney heroines Mulan and Jasmine, or from her heartbreaking turn as Eponine in Les Misérables. From her professional debut at just seven years old to originating the role of Kim in Miss Saigon, a performance that earned her the 1991 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, Salonga has long operated at a level few performers ever reach.

She was joined onstage by a dynamic live band and two powerhouse vocalists who provided lush harmonies and stepped in as duet partners for some of her most iconic numbers, including “The Movie in My Mind” and “A Whole New World.” These talented artists provide an exciting extra layer of vigour to the performance, rounding out a truly spectacular program. The live on stage band was comprised of Larry Yurman (musical director & piano), Paul Viapiano (guitar), Warren Odze (drums), Kevin Axt (bass), Quinn Johnson & David Witham (keyboards), and Sarah Galbraith & Andrew Kotzen (background vocalists).

Among the night’s many amazing moments was a Disney medley featuring songs like “Part of Your World” and “Let It Go.” Hearing Salonga’s legendary voice inhabit characters beyond the ones she helped define felt unexpectedly tender, a passing of the torch wrapped in nostalgia. On the flip side, Salonga surprised the audience with playful renditions of songs you’d never expect in this setting, from “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” to “Stayin’ Alive,” proving she’s just as joyful and dynamic as ever.

But the heart of the evening was Salonga herself, confident, genuine, and clearly having the time of her life. Before launching into “Everything’s Coming Up Roses,” she shared how meaningful it was to perform the song in her recent appearance in Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends. The performance that followed was powerful and precise, yet deeply personal, a master class in intention and emotional clarity.

The true standout moments of the night came from Salonga’s self-proclaimed favorite and most meaningful tunes, such as this. Another, also from Sondheim, was “Being Alive,” a powerful song from Company, a show that proudly proclaimed she would love to be in… Who out there can make that happen? Because after watching that ballad performance, someone has to. 

These tender moments of deep reflection and gratitude were incredibly sweet and meaningful. The unique opportunity to see a star unmasked and to understand them on a deeper level should not be taken for granted. This experience added an extra layer of poise not only to the performance at Benaroya but also to all of her existing works.

It was no surprise to see the concert hall completely packed. Salonga is loved worldwide, and her fans came out in full force, cheering, crying, and singing along to their favorite songs. It was a delightful show and a privilege to witness someone who truly excels in their element.

Seattle Awards - Live Stats

Best Musical - Top 3

1. THE COLOR PURPLE (Village Theatre)

7.7% of votes

2. REEFER MADNESS (The Spartan Theatre)

6.9% of votes

3. LEGALLY BLONDE (Spokane Civic Theatre)

6% of votes

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