Delia D., a must-see OPM musical spectacle 

The all-star cast of “Delia D.”

NEWPORT World Resorts’ Full House Theater Company does it again. After the triumphant back-to-back run of “Ang Huling El Bimbo” and “Buruguduystunstugudunstuy,” they’re back again with “Delia D: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo”, which started its weekend shows last April 25 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City

Select members of the print and online media, including this writer, had the opportunity to witness the dazzling production that blends camp, comedy, and straight-out-of-teleserye Pinoy drama during its gala night. 

Actor Floyd Tena and composer/producer Jonathan Manalo
Davaoeña performer Shaira Opsimar as Kiki

The jukebox musical features Manalo’s timeless OPM anthems, such as “Pinoy Ako,” “Patuloy ang Pangarap,” “Gusto ko nang Bumitaw,” “Paano ba ang Magmahal,” “Boom Panes”, and “Wag kang Pabebe”. 

It follows Delia (Phi Palmos), a probinsyano drag performer who is chasing ambition and stardom in the fictional “Idols of the Galaxy” singing competition. Palmos, whose theater credits include “Ray of Aegis,” “Zsazsa Zaturnnah The Musical,” and “Ang Huling El Bimbo,” delivers a standout performance as the main protagonist, blending charisma and vulnerability.

He is ably supported by a talented ensemble, including Davao’s very own Shaira Avelino Opsimar (who first joined “Little Big Star Davao” and season 2 of “The Voice”) as Kiki, John Lapus as Mama Eme, Omar Uddin as Raymond, Mimi Marquez as GVB, and Floyd Tena as Sir T.

Directed by Dexter M. Santos, the spectacular production – featuring a large state-of-the-art LED Cube screen, a revolving stage, Stephen Viñas’ electrifying choreography, and the live accompaniment of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra- is truly a visual and auditory feast. Lawyn Cruz’s glitzy design and Mitoy Sta. Ana’s costumes add glamorous flair, making Delia D. a must-see, unforgettable theatrical experience. 

Phi Palmos as “Delia D.”

A product of “Himig Handog sa Makabagong Kabataan,” where his composition “Tara Tena” won, Manolo, who is also head of ABS-CBN Music, thanked the audience “for believing in Filipino artists and Philippine Theater” during the show’s curtain call. 

D’ Divalettes performing in the fictitious Drag&Tell Bar

“Our vision is to make the Philippines the Broadway of Asia. We always export our talents abroad when we should have stages, like Newport Performing Arts Theater, that celebrate Filipino artistry. Delia D is special because it has a social microscope – it’s entertaining, but it also addresses issues, taking us back to our core values that sometimes we forget due to success and the so-called lights and glamor,” said Newport World Resorts executive director Atty. Gina Alvarez. 

This all-Pinoy production will run until June 8, 2025. Special thanks to Newport World Resorts and Cebu Pacific. 

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