Lencia Kebede Wikipedia, Biography
Lencia Kebede is an Ethiopian-American actress and singer who made history as the first Black actress to play Elphaba full-time in the Broadway production of Wicked. She debuted in the role on March 4, 2025, at the Gershwin Theatre in New York City.
Born in Los Angeles, Lencia graduated from Occidental College in 2016, majoring in Diplomacy & World Affairs and Politics. She was involved in the arts, performing in musicals like Hairspray and studying abroad in Buenos Aires. After college, Lencia pursued a career in theater, touring with Rent and Hamilton, and even singing backup for Beyoncé during Coachella rehearsals.
Beyond her artistic career, Lencia is passionate about social justice. She co-founded the Racial Justice Task Force for Hamilton, focusing on racial inclusion, voter registration, and educational outreach. Her Broadway debut was an emotional moment, as she felt the presence of her late father and grandmother while performing.
Early Life and Family
Lencia Kebede was born in Los Angeles, California, to Ethiopian immigrant parents. As a first-generation Ethiopian American, she grew up in a culturally rich environment that emphasized the importance of education and community. While specific details about her birth date and family members are not publicly disclosed, her upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping her work ethic and artistic aspirations.
Education and Academic Pursuits
Lencia graduated from Occidental College in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Diplomacy and World Affairs, minoring in Politics. During her time at Occidental, she was actively involved in the arts, performing in the musical Hairspray and participating in the Glee Club. She also studied abroad in Buenos Aires and interned at the Guatemalan Mission to the United Nations, showcasing her commitment to both the arts and social causes.
Career in Theater and Music
After college, Lencia pursued a career in theater, where she made a name for herself through various roles. She toured nationally and internationally with Rent, playing the role of Joanne, and spent five years with the national tour of Hamilton, portraying Angelica Schuyler and other roles. Her theatrical journey also took her to Tokyo Disneyland, and she even had the honor of singing backup for Beyoncé during her Coachella rehearsals.
In addition to her artistic achievements, Lencia is deeply committed to social justice. She co-founded and serves as the manager of the Racial Justice Task Force for Hamilton, where she focuses on initiatives related to racial inclusion in politics and the workforce, voter registration, and educational outreach. Her advocacy work reflects her belief in using art as a platform for activism and change.
Major Achievements
Broadway Debut in Wicked: Lencia made history as the first Black actress to portray Elphaba full-time in the Broadway production of Wicked, a role she began on March 4, 2025.
Touring with Hamilton: She spent five years touring with Hamilton, portraying Angelica Schuyler and other roles, gaining invaluable experience in the theater industry.
Backup Singer for Beyoncé: Lencia had the honor of singing backup for Beyoncé during her Coachella rehearsals, an experience that broadened her musical horizons.
Co-Founder of Racial Justice Task Force: She co-founded and serves as the manager of the Racial Justice Task Force for Hamilton, focusing on initiatives related to racial inclusion and social justice.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Lencia Kebede’s estimated net worth is around $1 million. This estimation accounts for her earnings from her Broadway performances, national and international tours, and other musical engagements.
Personal Life and Instagram Presence
Lencia is active on social media, particularly Instagram, where she shares insights into her professional journey and personal experiences. Her Instagram handle is @lenciakebede, where she has amassed a following of over 37,000 followers. Through her posts, she offers a glimpse into her life as a performer and advocate.
Conclusion
Lencia Kebede’s journey from a student of diplomacy and world affairs to a trailblazer on Broadway is a testament to her talent, determination, and commitment to social justice. Her historic portrayal of Elphaba in Wicked not only marks a significant achievement in her career but also paves the way for greater representation and inclusivity in the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role did Lencia Kebede debut in on Broadway?
Lencia debuted as Elphaba in Wicked on March 4, 2025, becoming the first Black actress to portray the character full-time on Broadway.
Where did Lencia Kebede study?
Lencia graduated from Occidental College in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Diplomacy and World Affairs, minoring in Politics.
What other Broadway shows has Lencia Kebede been a part of?
Lencia has toured nationally and internationally with Rent and spent five years touring with Hamilton, portraying Angelica Schuyler and other roles.
Has Lencia Kebede performed internationally?
Yes, she performed at Tokyo Disneyland and sang backup for Beyoncé during her Coachella rehearsals.
What is the Racial Justice Task Force?
The Racial Justice Task Force is an initiative co-founded by Lencia within Hamilton to promote racial inclusion and social justice through various programs.
What is Lencia Kebede’s Instagram handle?
Lencia’s Instagram handle is @lenciakebede, where she shares updates and insights from her career.
Has Lencia Kebede received any awards?
While specific awards are not mentioned, her historic role in Wicked and contributions to theater and social justice have garnered significant recognition.
What other roles has Lencia Kebede played?
In addition to her roles in Rent and Hamilton, Lencia has portrayed various characters in community theater productions and professional engagements.
