A Spectacle in the Making: ‘Delia D.’ Musical Brings Jonathan Manalo’s Iconic OPM Hits to the Stage
The Grand Bar and Lounge at Newport World Resorts was transformed into a glittering showcase on March 13 as the cast and creative team of the highly anticipated Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo unveiled a first glimpse of the production. The press conference was anything but ordinary—it was a full-on theatrical spectacle.
Set against a backdrop of a moving stage and electrifying choreography, the cast delivered showstopping performances of Jonathan Manalo’s most beloved songs. The musical, which officially opens this April, promises to dazzle audiences with a vibrant mix of glitz, glamour, and heartfelt storytelling.
Not Your Average Jukebox Musical
Delia D. is the latest creation from Full House Theater Company (FHTC), the powerhouse behind hit Filipino jukebox musicals like Ang Huling El Bimbo and Buruguduystunstugudunstuy. But as FHTC Co-Artistic Director Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo shared, Delia D. offers something refreshingly different.
“This is not another jukebox musical,” Lauchengco-Yulo emphasized. “We’ve crafted a hybrid musical that not only celebrates Jonathan Manalo’s biggest OPM hits but also introduces brand-new, original songs.”
Michael Williams, co-artistic director, highlighted the show's universal themes. “It’s campy, comedic, and dramatic, but at its core, Delia D. is about resilience, family, and chasing dreams,” Williams said. “Audiences will see themselves in Delia—a drag performer who refuses to let life’s hurdles dim her light.”
A Sneak Peek into the Music
The press conference thrilled attendees with a preview of seven musical numbers from the production, including fan favorites like “May Kasama Ka”, “Clap Clap Clap Awra”, and “Paano Bang Magmahal”. The emotional and upbeat performances gave a taste of the dynamic soundtrack that will define the show.
At the center of this spectacle is Phi Palmos, who stars as Delia, alongside Shaira Opsimar as Kiki and Floyd Tena as Sir T. The supporting cast features a talented ensemble including Tex Ordoñez-De Leon, Omar Uddin, Sweet Lapus, Joann Yap Co, and many more.
The Story: Dreams, Drag, and Discovery
At its heart, Delia D. tells the story of Delia, a bold and spirited drag performer who dreams of becoming a global music star—despite one major obstacle: Delia can’t sing. Undeterred, she enters the biggest televised singing competition, Idols of the Galaxy, leading to a rollercoaster of rivalries, friendships, and self-discovery.
With direction from Dexter Santos and a powerful book by playwright Dolly Dulu, the musical is poised to deliver an unforgettable journey packed with humor, heartache, and dazzling showmanship. The production also boasts music arranged by Vince Lim and a stellar creative team, including renowned designers and choreographers.
Mark Your Calendars!
Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo opens on April 25 and runs until June 8 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Tickets are now on sale, ranging from PHP 1,000 (Bronze) to PHP 3,500 (SVIP), available through TicketWorld, HelixPay, and the Newport World Resorts Box Office.
For more details and ticket inquiries, contact Customer Care at 7908-8888 or 0917-872-8237, or email info@fhtcentertainment.com.
Experience Newport World Resorts
Located at the heart of Newport City, right across NAIA Terminal 3, Newport World Resorts is a premier entertainment destination. It boasts world-class theaters, luxury hotels, a vibrant dining scene, and an exciting casino floor. Whether you’re here for the show or an entire weekend getaway, every visit is unforgettable—especially with an Epic Rewards membership.
For the latest updates on Delia D. and other upcoming productions, follow @newportworldresorts and @nwr.musicals on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

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