Filipina performer shines as Gary Coleman in the hit musical comedy Avenue Q

Stephanie Lacerna

Filipina Stephanie Lacerna stars as Gary Coleman in the Broadway smash hit Avenue Q showing in Melbourne Credit: Supplied

27-year-old Filipina Stephanie Lacerna steps into the spotlight portraying the iconic role of Gary Coleman in the Broadway smash hit Avenue Q.


KEY POINTS
  • Avenue Q is renowned for its irreverent humor and politically incorrect themes, boldly tackling issues such as racism, unemployment, love, and sexuality. The show is set to dazzle audiences at Melbourne’s historic National Theatre in St Kilda from February 22nd to March 8th.
  • Although raised in Australia, Lacerna's musical influences include Filipino pop icon Sarah Geronimo and Broadway legend Lea Salonga. Growing up, she enjoyed watching Filipino teleseryes and listening to her parents’ music, which shaped her deep appreciation for performance and storytelling.
  • Stephanie Lacerna discovered her passion for performing when she felt something was missing in her life. Taking a leap of faith, she left her job and pursued a short course in dramatic arts- a decision that led her to land the role of Gary Coleman in Avenue Q. As the only Filipino performer in the production, she takes immense pride in representing her heritage on stage.
I’m proud of myself because there has been very little Asian representation in musical theatre, especially when I was growing up. That lack of visibility was one of the biggest barriers that kept me from exploring this path. I didn’t think there was a place for me in this world. But now, I get to be part of this, and I’m very thankful.
Stephanie Lacerna
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AVENUE Q STEPH LACERNA  image

Filipina performer shines as Gary Coleman in the hit musical comedy Avenue Q

SBS Filipino

22/02/202526:04

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