The much-awaited musical “Delia D: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo” is set to captivate audiences from April 25 to June 8, 2025, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The production highlights the inspiring journey of Delia, a drag performer chasing her dreams on the world’s biggest singing competition, with Jonathan Manalo’s timeless hits and original compositions guiding her path of self-discovery.
A Musical Journey Through Manalo’s Greatest Hits
The show promises a variety of relatable themes brought to life through Jonathan’s iconic songs:
🎵 Songs of Hope and Dreams: Hits like “Patuloy Ang Pangarap” (Angeline Quinto), “Pangarap Kong Pangarap Mo” (Zephanie), and “Strings” (BINI) capture Delia’s ambition and resilience.
❤️ Heartbreaking and Heartwarming Love Songs: Expect emotional ballads such as “Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw” (Sheryn Regis and Morissette), “Hawak Mo” (Lyka Estrella), and “Pagbigyang Muli” (Erik Santos).
🎤 Feel-Good R&B Vibes: Fans can groove to “Beautiful Days” (Kyla), “Tawa Tawa” (FANA), “Sinayang Mo” (Jeremy G), and “Let It Loose” (Kyle Echarri).
🇵🇭 Pinoy Pride Anthems: Celebrating Filipino spirit, the show reimagines “Kabataang Pinoy,” “Sikat Ang Pinoy,” “Pinoy Ako,” and “Tara Tena,” Jonathan’s 2001 Himig Handog winning piece.
⚡ Energizing and Uplifting Songs: High-energy performances will feature “Blooming” (BINI), “Unleash the Diva” (4th Impact), and “Boom Panes” (Vice Ganda).
Stellar Cast and Creative Team
“Delia D” is headlined by Phi Palmos, Shaira Opsimar, and Floyd Tena, with John Lapus, Joann Yap Co, and Tex Ordoñez-De Leon in supporting roles. The ensemble includes a talented mix of seasoned and emerging performers, while Khalil Tambio, Jules dela Paz, Janina Mendoza, and John Paul Basco serve as covers and swings.
The production is helmed by acclaimed director Dexter Santos, with Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo as associate director and Michael Williams as assistant director. Scriptwriter Dolly Dulu, dramaturg Rody Vera, and musical director/arranger Vince Lima complete the creative lineup.
Celebrating Jonathan Manalo’s Legacy
Jonathan Manalo, the most-streamed Filipino songwriter-producer with over 8 billion streams as of March 5, continues to shape OPM. His work, previously featured in iWantTFC’s “Lyric and Beat,” now takes center stage in “Delia D.”
Don’t miss this heartfelt musical experience that celebrates dreams, love, and Filipino pride. For more updates, visit www.newportworldresorts.com or follow @abscbnpr on social media.
