Broadway is buzzing this April 2025—and it’s got a distinctly Filipino flair.
Powerhouse performers like Nicole Scherzinger, Eva Noblezada, and Lea Salonga are lighting up the stage, blending talent and heritage in roles that are stealing the spotlight and winning hearts.
Nicole Scherzinger in “Sunset Boulevard”
Nicole Scherzinger, renowned for her dynamic presence and powerful vocals, stars as Norma Desmond in the Broadway revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Sunset Boulevard”.
Her performance has garnered significant acclaim, with the show becoming one of New York’s most sought-after tickets.
Scherzinger, who is of Filipino descent through her mother, brings depth and nuance to the role of the aging silent film star yearning for a return to the spotlight.
The production continues its run at the Palace Theatre, with performances scheduled throughout April.
Eva Noblezada in “Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club”
Following her departure from “The Great Gatsby” on January 30, 2025, Eva Noblezada joined the cast of “Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club” as Sally Bowles.
Noblezada, a two-time Tony Award nominee with Filipino ancestry, began her 16-week engagement on March 31, 2025, and will continue through July 20.
Her portrayal of the iconic cabaret singer has been praised for its emotional depth and vocal prowess.
Performances are held at the August Wilson Theatre.
Lea Salonga in “Old Friends”
Broadway legend Lea Salonga, celebrated for her Tony-winning role in “Miss Saigon” and as the singing voice of Disney’s Jasmine and Mulan, is currently starring in “Old Friends”.
Salonga, who is of Filipino heritage, continues to captivate audiences with her unparalleled talent and stage presence.
In addition to her theatrical endeavors, she has publicly expressed support for her son, Nic Chien, who came out as transmasculine at 14.
Their bond is highlighted by their collaboration in a Philippine production of “Into the Woods,” where Salonga plays The Witch and Chien portrays Jack.
Darren Criss in “Maybe Happy Ending”
Darren Criss returns to the Broadway stage this April 2025 in “Maybe Happy Ending”, starring as Oliver, a charming and curious helperbot who begins to explore what it means to love and be human.
Known for his breakout role on Glee and his Emmy-winning turn as Andrew Cunanan, Criss brings both heart and humor to this whimsical yet poignant musical set in a futuristic Seoul.
A proud Filipino American, Criss has long celebrated his mixed heritage, often crediting his Filipino roots for shaping his musicality and deep connection to family and culture.
Kay Sibal in “Six the Musical”
Kay Sibal. Photo credit: nbc.com
Kay Sibal is turning heads on Broadway as one of the fierce queens in “Six the Musical”, where she brings electrifying vocals and commanding stage presence to the role of Catherine Parr.
Of Filipino heritage, Sibal’s journey to the stage began in her childhood, when her powerhouse voice was discovered during a school talent show—quickly earning her local attention and leading to formal vocal training.
Her rise through the musical theatre world has been marked by standout performances and viral vocal clips online, ultimately landing her a spot in the hit pop musical that reimagines the wives of Henry VIII as chart-topping divas.
Sibal’s performance not only dazzles but proudly reflects her Filipino roots, inspiring a new generation of Asian performers to take center stage.
