Clad in glitz, glam and pink, ‘Delia D’ celebrates the core Filipino values that we’re all familiar with

On entry, the audience is greeted with the Newport Performing Arts Theatre’s spacious stage with a massive sign that reads ‘Delia’ at the centre. Once the show started, the sign rose to reveal Phi Palmos looking pretty in pink as he was joined by the ensemble for an explosive introduction to our titular character. Energetic and powerful with the right amount of mischief, it was a great way to establish the musical’s tone. 

The production also cleverly incorporates multimedia elements, with two televisions broadcasting the musical offstage to the left and right. While we’ve seen this in previous Newport productions such as Buruguduystunstugudunstuy and Ang Huling El Bimbo The Musical, this time felt different as Delia D watches like a concert or a reality show. On top of this, the stage’s borders would also often flash social media reactions from the audience of ‘Idols of the Galaxy’, capturing real-world online interactions when a viral moment happens on any hit TV show. A key part of the set design is its transformation from modest to spectacular when the scene demanded it. They spared no expense to immerse the audience in a reality show, and every element was utilised perfectly. During certain sequences, the stage would rotate like something out of Hamilton or Wicked—cementing Newport World Resorts’ desire to establish the Philippines as Asia’s Broadway.

See also: ‘Joseph the Dreamer’ returns to the stage this July

Delia D is a prime example of the creative team knowing its audience. Everything, from the dialogue to the costume design and choreography, matches the musical’s tone. Playwright Dolly Dulu incorporates plenty of swardspeak and kanal humour that had the audience in stitches. For instance, John Lapus’ performance as Mama Eme—Delia’s drag mother—had me laughing every time he was on stage with his raspy voice and exaggerated swagger. 

The musical couldn’t have picked a better artist to carry its banner. Jonathan Manalo’s songs were downright anthemic and uplifting. Even if you aren’t familiar with all of Manalo’s songs, it’s almost impossible not to recognise and unconsciously sway to the beat. Together with the cast’s soaring vocals and nearly acrobatic choreography, it’s a theatrical experience that keeps you on your toes in anticipation of more. Palmos, Shaira Opsimar, Floyd Tena and Omar Uddin, among plenty of others, did Manalo’s songs justice as they belted out each high note in a passionate display of talent and skill. One song to look forward to is Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw, which has multiple reprisals that get better each time it’s performed.

Without spoilers, the plot gets its themes of ambition, resilience and humility across. It properly demonstrates and appreciates drag as an art form and is a love letter to a community that often faces discrimination. It’s a show with all ups and non-existent downs that tells a relevant story in today’s climate, and in our personal selves.

Delia D: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo runs until June 8 at the Newport Performing Arts Theatre. For more information, visit their social media pages.

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