The spotlight is on Delia D: The Musical, a colorful and lively show that looks closely at fame, fandom, and the tough competition that comes with chasing dreams. At the center is Delia, a drag queen with big hopes that go beyond the small stage of her local bar.
Set to the hit songs of Filipino music icon Jonathan Manalo, Delia D follows its lead character as she steps out of her comfort zone to aim higher. Raised in an adoptive family of drag performers, Delia dreams of trading small cheers for big-time success. She gets her chance when she auditions for ‘Idols of the Galaxy,’ a TV singing contest that promises fame but also brings harsh judgment and strict industry rules.
Though people doubt her singing, Delia’s charm wins over the audience, earning her a spot in the contest. Along the way, she faces friendship and rivalry, love and betrayal, wins and defeats. Her journey shows the hard truths about quick fame, tough competition, and society’s high demands.
The show stars Phi Palmos as Delia, with Shaira Opsimar, Floyd Tena, Omar Uddin, Tex Ordonez-De Leon, John Lapus, Joann Yap Go, and many more. Together, they bring a story that’s both glittery and raw.
Behind the scenes, a skilled team powers the show: Dexter Santos directs, Dolly Dulu wrote the script, and Vince Lim arranged the music. Theater icons Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo and Michael Stuart Williams serve as artistic heads, making sure every scene shines. From Lawyn Cruz’s amazing set designs to Stephen Viñas’ exciting choreography, every part adds to Delia's story.
The soundtrack features Jonathan Manalo's hits — Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw, Sikat Ang Pinoy, Tara Tena, and more — performed in new ways with Musical Director Vince Lim, conductor Michael Jacinto, and the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.
At its heart, Delia D is more than a show. It’s a smart retelling of the Icarus story — about how big dreams can lift you up but also bring you down. With its mix of humor, pleasure, heartache, and strong performances, Delia D: The Musical is a must-see on the local theater scene.
The show marks a major milestone for original Filipino theater — a shining celebration of dreams and resilience, proving that local productions can stand proudly alongside the world’s best.
Since opening on April 25, thousands — from theater lovers to OPM fans — have been wowed. During the gala on May 2, stars, drag queens, and cultural icons packed the theater to cheer the show.
Directed by Dexter Santos, Delia D: The Musical is the 11th major production from Newport World Resorts’ Full House Theater Company. The show is a bold step forward for OPM and Philippine musical theater.
Delia D runs until June 8 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Tickets are on sale at SM Tickets, TicketWorld, HelixPay, and Newport World Resorts Box Office: P3,500 (SVIP), P3,000 (VIP), P2,500 (Gold), P1,800 (Silver), and P1,000 (Bronze). AJA