Celebrate the life and work of the great Stephen Sondheim, with an irresistible company headlined by none other than Tony Award® winners Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga. Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends comes to the Ahmanson from London’s West End, where it earned a bevy of 5-star raves and was hailed by The Times as “unmissable musical theatre.”
Currently captivating audiences at Los Angeles’ Ahmanson Theatre, Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends is a spectacular celebration of the legendary composer’s musical genius—and Filipino theater icon Lea Salonga is leading the charge. With its North American premiere running until March 9, 2025, this extraordinary musical revue brings together some of Broadway’s finest talents, with Salonga taking center stage alongside another Tony Award-winning legend, Bernadette Peters.
The production, conceived by producer Cameron Mackintosh, honors the groundbreaking work of Stephen Sondheim, featuring beloved songs from his iconic musicals like Company, Follies, Sweeney Todd, and Gypsy. This tribute to Sondheim’s remarkable contributions to musical theater initially wowed audiences in London’s West End, where it was praised as “unmissable.” Now, the show is doing the same in Los Angeles, drawing theatergoers from near and far to witness this unforgettable celebration of one of Broadway’s most influential composers.
Lea Salonga: A Global Ambassador for Filipino Talent
Lea Salonga’s role in Old Friends is a testament to her unparalleled talent and continued dominance in the world of musical theater. Known for her Tony Award-winning portrayal of Kim in Miss Saigon, Salonga has long been an international ambassador for Filipino artistry. She has inspired countless Filipinos, breaking barriers with her performances in Les Misérables, Allegiance, and Once On This Island, among others. Salonga’s powerful voice and emotional depth make her the perfect interpreter of Sondheim’s sophisticated songs, and her performance in Old Friendshas garnered widespread acclaim.
Salonga’s influence extends far beyond her performances. She continues to serve as a mentor to aspiring artists, especially in the Philippines, where she has coached contestants on The Voice. Her journey from a young Filipino artist to a world-renowned performer is one that resonates deeply with Filipino theatergoers, inspiring future generations of talent to follow in her footsteps.
A Timeless Homage to Sondheim’s Musical Masterpieces
Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends is a living tribute to the unparalleled legacy of Sondheim, who revolutionized the world of musical theater with his rich, complex storytelling and intricate musical compositions. The revue features a stunning collection of songs from Sondheim’s extensive catalog, including pieces from Into the Woods, Follies, Sweeney Todd, and more, all performed by a star-studded ensemble that includes the legendary Bernadette Peters.
Peters, another Tony Award-winner, brings her iconic talents to the production, joining Salonga in bringing Sondheim’s intricate songs to life. Peters, known for her unforgettable roles in Into the Woods and Gypsy, brings her own legacy to the stage, making Old Friends a true collaboration between two of Broadway’s most celebrated voices.
For Filipino theater fans, Salonga’s central role in this production adds a deeper level of connection and pride. She is not only performing some of Sondheim’s most beloved songs but also embodying the spirit of resilience and excellence that Filipinos worldwide take immense pride in.
Ongoing Success and Broadway Bound
Since its debut at the Ahmanson Theatre, Old Friends has continued to captivate audiences and critics alike. With a schedule that runs until March 9, 2025, theatergoers in Los Angeles still have the chance to experience this remarkable show before it heads to Broadway, where it will begin previews on March 25, 2025, at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.
Lea Salonga’s ongoing involvement in Old Friends is yet another chapter in her storied career, a career that has seen her break barriers, forge new paths, and continue to inspire millions around the world. Her leadership in this production, alongside Bernadette Peters, solidifies her place not only as a global superstar but as a proud Filipino artist who represents the best of what the Philippines has to offer to the international stage.
