Keala Settle, born on May 5, 1975, in Oahu, Hawaii, is a talented Broadway actress who has made a name for herself in the world of musical theater. She was raised in a loving and supportive family, being the eldest of five children born to Susanne and David Settle. Her parents, a Maori mother from New Zealand and a British father, raised her in the Mormon faith.
Settle attended Kahuku High School, where she graduated in 1993. After high school, she went on to enroll at Southern Utah University, where she honed her craft and developed her passion for acting and singing.
Settle's career in musical theater began to take off when she made her Broadway debut in 2011 in the role of Shirley in "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert." She continued to showcase her talents on the stage, earning critical acclaim for her performances. Some of her notable roles include originating the role of Norma Valverde in "Hands on a Hardbody" in 2013, appearing in the revival of "Les Misérables," and touring nationally in "Hairspray."
Throughout her career, Settle has garnered attention and praise for her incredible performances. She has been nominated for several prestigious awards, including the Outer Critics Circle Award, Drama Desk Award, and Tony Award. Her portrayal of the bearded lady Lettie Lutz in the 2017 musical drama "The Greatest Showman" further solidified her status as a talented and versatile actress.
Settle is a private individual who prefers to keep her personal life out of the spotlight. Despite her success in the entertainment industry, she remains humble and grounded, crediting her family and upbringing for instilling in her a strong work ethic and values.
Settle has had the opportunity to work with some of the most talented performers in the industry. She performed in a concert staging of Encores! with the renowned Sutton Foster, showcasing her range and versatility as a performer. Although she did not move on to the Broadway revival due to a prior commitment with "Les Miserables," her presence on stage is always memorable.
Keala Settle's contributions to musical theater have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. Her powerful vocals, emotional performances, and genuine passion for her craft have solidified her as a true star on Broadway. As she continues to pursue her passion for performing, there is no doubt that Settle will leave an indelible mark on the world of musical theater for years to come.