Key Points
- At just 16 years old, Filipino-Australian Zion Lallana is stepping into the spotlight, taking on the lead role in Aladdin Jr. Musical.
- Zion looks up to Filipina Broadway star Lea Salonga, who voiced Jasmine in Aladdin, and finds inspiration in her success as a Filipino in the global arts scene.
- Despite growing up in the Blue Mountains with few Filipinos, Zion is proud of his heritage and sees his role in the musical as a chance to celebrate it.
With a passion for music and a rich family history of performing, Zion Lallana's journey into the world of musicals seems almost destined.
"I fell in love with music as a kid. With my family being performers, music was always a part of my life—I could never really escape it," Zion shared, reflecting on how his mother, played a key role in nurturing his vocal talent from an early age.
Though Zion’s first exposure to musicals came at an unusually young age—"The first one I saw was Les Misérables, and honestly, a 7- or 8-year-old kid probably shouldn't be watching a musical about the French Revolution"—it was a moment that sparked a lifelong passion. Zion was captivated by how musicals combine storytelling with song, something he believes creates an unparalleled experience for audiences. "It's just an experience that can't be matched."
A Whole New World for Zion
Taking on the role of Aladdin has been a dream come true for Zion, a role he earned after months of preparation and dedication. From mastering choreography to memorising lines, he’s embraced the challenges that come with the lead role. "I had to learn this dance for one of my songs early in the show, and it was really difficult at first, but the cast and crew have been so supportive," he said.
Zion's excitement isn't just about performing, but also about working alongside a talented cast. He praises his co-stars, including Ebony Penman, who plays Jasmine, and the actor playing Genie, Alana Kenn, both of whom he describes as incredibly talented and supportive. “It’s been a satisfying and thrilling experience,” he said.
The production also has special meaning for Zion, as the beloved Disney character Jasmine was first voiced by none other than Filipina Broadway singer, Lea Salonga.
Zion Lallana has been cast as the lead in Aladdin Jr Musical, a dream role for him, combining his love for singing, acting, and performance.
A Dream Role
For Zion, stepping into Aladdin's shoes is more than just a role; it's a chance to make his family proud.
Growing up in the Blue Mountains, far from the hustle of Sydney's arts scene, he credits his parents for their constant support.
“My dad’s always driving me everywhere, no matter how tired he is, and my mom, she helped me learn my lines for the audition, playing the role of Jasmine just so I could prepare. I’m so grateful to them.”
Zion, who acknowledges that being one of the few Filipinos in his school has at times made him feel isolated from the broader Filipino community, sees this role as an opportunity to celebrate his roots.
"Lea Salonga is a huge inspiration to me—seeing a Filipina achieve such incredible success on Broadway is something that resonates deeply with me," Zion expressed.
Proud of Your Boy
Reflecting on the musical number "Proud of Your Boy," which Aladdin sings to express his desire to make his mother proud, Zion becomes emotional.
"Whenever I sing that song, sometimes I almost cry because it holds so much meaning for me. I really do want to make my parents proud."
Looking ahead, Zion is excited to take the stage in October and showcase the months of hard work that he and his castmates have put into the production. And beyond Aladdin, Zion has bigger dreams. Encouraged by his drama teacher, Miss Gill, he’s ready to pursue a future in the performing arts, both in Australia and abroad.
“I love telling stories, whether as myself or someone else, and I want to keep going with it. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll be performing in America.”
Zion with Fantasia Showstoppers production will bring Aladdin Jr. to life from October 4 to October 12, with shows running on weekends (Friday through Sunday) at Richmond, 26 W Market St, Richmond NSW 2753, Australia.
