Cover A film still from ‘Die Beautiful’. The acclaimed movie heads now to the stage as it is being revived for a musical theatre adaptation (Photo: The IdeaFirst Company / Asia Pacific Screen Awards)
A film still from ‘Die Beautiful’. The acclaimed movie heads now to the stage as it is being revived for a musical theatre adaptation (Photo: The IdeaFirst Company / Asia Pacific Screen Awards)
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Drag Race Philippines superstars Maxie Andreison and Viñas Deluxe are set to share the iconic lead role of Trisha Echevarria in the upcoming theatrical adaptation, ‘Die Beautiful: The Musical’
The beloved and groundbreaking story of the film Die Beautiful is officially heading to the stage. Produced by IdeaFirst Live, the musical adaptation will bring a bold new life to the acclaimed 2016 film, transforming its unforgettable tale of beauty, identity, friendship and chosen family into a live theatrical experience. Die Beautiful: The Musical is scheduled to open in June 2027 at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati, with preparations already underway a full year in advance.
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Above Viñas Deluxe as Trisha Echevarria in ‘Die Beautiful: The Musical’ (Photo: The IdeaFirst Live)
Viñas Deluxe as Trisha Echevarria in ‘Die Beautiful: The Musical’ (Photo: The IdeaFirst Live)
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Stepping into the spotlight to alternate in the lead role of Trisha Echevarria are two of the country’s most exciting drag artists: Drag Race Philippines Season 3 winner Maxie Andreison and Drag Race Philippines Season 1 and Slaysian Royale competitor Viñas Deluxe. The character of Trisha was originally made popular in the film version by Paolo Ballesteros, a performance that earned him the Best Actor award at both the 29th Tokyo International Film Festival and the 42nd Metro Manila Film Festival.
“For the musical, the role will require an artist who can navigate comedy and drama, deliver powerful vocals, and embody Trisha’s journey with truth, charisma and emotional depth,” Rutaquio shared. “We are thrilled to have Maxie and Viñas to alternately play Trisha Echevarria. The role of Trisha has become iconic, celebrated for her humour, heart, vulnerability and unapologetic authenticity”.
Above Maxie Andreison as Trisha Echevarria in ‘Die Beautiful: The Musical’ (Photo: The IdeaFirst Live)
Maxie Andreison as Trisha Echevarria in ‘Die Beautiful: The Musical’ (Photo: The IdeaFirst Live)
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Acclaimed filmmaker Jun Robles Lana, who is personally adapting his original masterpiece for the stage, expressed his excitement over the production’s lead stars.
“Bringing Trisha to life on stage requires a rare kind of magic, and Maxie and Viñas have that,” Lana noted. “Watching them bring their own flavour, humour and fierce heart to a character so personal to me is thrilling. I can’t wait for audiences to see how they will elevate Trisha’s story into something fresh yet wonderfully familiar,” he added.
Read more: Die Beautiful, Changing Partners, Baka Bukas, and more—Filipino movies to watch in Pride Month
Above Paolo Ballesteros as Trisha Echevarria and Christian Bables as Barbs Cordero in the film, ‘Die Beautiful’ (Photo: The IdeaFirst Company / Asia Pacific Screen Awards)
Paolo Ballesteros as Trisha Echevarria and Christian Bables as Barbs Cordero in the film, ‘Die Beautiful’ (Photo: The IdeaFirst Company / Asia Pacific Screen Awards)
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The upcoming production promises to honour the spirit of the original film while reimagining it for the stage through music, spectacle, humour and heart. Director Rutaquio highlighted that as accomplished drag performers and champions, Andreison and Deluxe bring exceptional talent, stage presence and a deep understanding of the resilience and humanity that make the character so beloved.
“Their distinct interpretations will offer audiences two equally compelling and unforgettable portrayals of this extraordinary role,” Rutaquio stated.
Further details regarding the full cast, creative team, exact performance dates and ticketing information will be announced soon.
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About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
