Hong Kong Disneyland was illuminated yesterday evening as Disney Legend Lea Salonga returned to the park for a special anniversary performance, marking a milestone moment for both the singer and the theme park. The concert was part of Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary celebrations, presented as a special edition of its Disney Live in Concert series, titled Disney Legend Live in Concert, headlined by Salonga herself.
The performance carried strong emotional significance. Lea Salonga famously performed at the opening of Hong Kong Disneyland in 2005, and this appearance marked her first return to the park since that historic debut two decades ago. Her return was met with a warm reception from fans and guests, many of whom were witnessing a full-circle moment in the park’s history.
Backed by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hong Kong Disneyland Band, conducted by Gerard Salonga, the concert unfolded against the Castle of Magical Dreams, which was transformed throughout the evening with elaborate projections and lighting effects. The castle shifted through vibrant colours and themed visuals, creating a cinematic backdrop that complemented each musical segment.
Several Disney princesses appeared during the performance, emerging on stage and within the projections, including Jasmine, Mulan, Tiana, Cinderella, Pocahontas, and Elsa, whose presence was met with audible cheers from the audience.
One of the evening’s standout moments came when Salonga performed A Whole New World, accompanied by a sweeping Agrabah-inspired projection across the castle, bringing the world of Aladdin vividly to life.
Following her Disneyland appearance, Lea Salonga is set to continue her Hong Kong performances on January 11 and 12 at the Xiqu Centre, where she will perform with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra as part of the inaugural Hong Kong MusicalCon.
Header Image Credit: The HK HUB