ICYMI: Lea Salonga serenades world leaders at the White House state dinner

Renzo Fuentes

April 28, 2023

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  Photo: @msleasalonga / Instagram; Getty Images via AFP

  “Pride of the Philippines” Lea Salonga sang to world leaders at a state dinner for South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol at the White House in Washington, D.C., United States.

   

  View this post on Instagram

   

  A post shared by Lea Salonga (@msleasalonga)

  Salonga demonstrated her impressive singing ability at an event. She was joined by two other established singer-actors: Jessica Vosk (best known as Elphaba in Wicked) and Norm Lewis (a Tony awardee). Together, they performed a range of songs from popular musicals, including Les Miserables and Funny Girl, as well as the beloved song “American Pie” by Don McLean, which was a favorite of the guest of honor, Yoon. Accompanying Salonga were the United States Marine Band Chamber Orchestra and the United States Army Band Herald Trumpets.

  This is happening! https://t.co/Q94Ovl5BrH

  — Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) April 22, 2023

  After their performances, they were personally greeted and welcomed by both the United States President, Joe Biden, and the South Korean President.

  The “Miss Saigon” actress told NBC News, “I’m beyond honored to have been invited by President and Doctor Biden to perform at the White House.” She added, “As we head into AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) Heritage Month, Asian Americans continuing to be represented on a global scale is so important, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help in that representation at such an important event.”

  On the occasion, the musician-thespian was spotted donning an off-shoulder ballgown with long sleeves, created by the renowned Filipino fashion designer, Rajo Laurel. “Thank you, dear friend, for constantly being an inspiration to us all,” he mentioned in an Instagram post.

   

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  A post shared by Rajo Laurel (@rajolaurel)

  Currently, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol is undertaking a six-day state visit to Washington.

  Watch the performance below:

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