Elha Nympha Steps Into Theater with Inday the Musical

The Voice Kids Philippines season 2 winner is all grown up, taking on a new stage, and opening up about healing, growth, and her biggest role yet

When Elha Nympha won The Voice Kids Philippines in 2015, she captured the country’s heart as an 11-year-old powerhouse. Her signature belt and undeniable stage presence took her all the way to international shows like Steve Harvey’s Little Big Shots and its UK counterpart, where her show-stopping renditions of Beyoncé’s “Love on Top” and Sia’s “Chandelier” went viral worldwide.

Now 22, Elha is stepping back into the spotlight—not just as a recording artist, but as a theater actress making her stage debut in Inday the Musical.

Elha Nympha during the media conference for Inday the Musical. Photo by Alexa Villano

On taking a break and finding healing

Before taking on this new chapter, Elha admitted she had to step away from the glare of showbiz. Like many young artists who grew up in the public eye, the challenges of young adulthood required time off for her mental healthMental HealthA person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which affects how children and parents think, feel, and cope. Open conversations, regular routines, and timely help from professionals make it easier for.

“I decided to stop for a while and concentrate on myself and discover new things,” Elha shared with reporters during a press gathering, opening up about going through a dark phase before deciding to pause. “I was able to heal myself through traveling and work as well.”

Beyond taking time for self-discovery, she credits her faith with guiding her through the process. “I’m just thankful I trusted Him again. And I think ito ’yung reward for obeying Him,” she said, referring to the opportunity to do theater.

When the offer for Inday the Musical came along, she knew it was time to step forward. “New siya sa akin. It’s something na tinatanong ko kung magagawa ko pa ba siya like next year or after. Sabi ko, this is the perfect timing for me to do it.”

Honoring her roots on stage

In Inday the Musical, Elha takes on the central role of Laya/Inday. Built around mystery, movement, and Philippine folklore, the production dives deep into local myths and family dynamics.

For Elha, the story hits close to home. With roots tracing back to Capiz and Siquijor—two provinces often associated with local legends of mystery and kulam (witchcraft)—the role feels uniquely personal.

“Isasabuhay ko ang aking mga ancestors,” she laughed.

Beyond the supernatural elements, Elha shares that the narrative touches on relatable family struggles that many Filipino households experience. “I think it’s also very timely because normal naman sa Filipino households na nagkakaroon tayo ng alitan sa mga kapatid at inggitan. So dito, isinabuhay namin ang mga ganyang issues.”

She adds that the musical aims to challenge traditional stereotypes surrounding local folklore while telling a story about human relationships and reconciliation.

A different kind of musical

Elha promises audiences a fresh experience compared to conventional theater offerings.

“It’s dark, it’s unique,” she notes. “Hindi lahat ng productions produce a dark or horror-themed musical. And it’s a musical, which people like.”

As Elha steps into this new era of her career—stronger, wiser, and grounded in her roots—her transition from child prodigy to theater actress marks a meaningful milestone in her personal and artistic journey.

Inday the Musical runs on October 16, 17, and 18 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.

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