‘Delia D’: Hybrid musical features original music of Jonathan Manalo
“Delia D,” the 11th major theatrical production from Newport World Resorts production outfit, Full House Theater Company (FHTC), was originally titled “Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw.”
The latter is a hit from songwriter-producer Jonathan Manalo from whose songs “Delia D” was based. The powerful ballad was originally recorded by Sheryn Regis and reprised by Morissette.
“Delia D” will feature the original music of Jonathan Manalo, who was recently recognized as one of the most-streamed songwriter-producers in the world, with eight billion streams.
“The musical is truly different because it is not a typical jukebox musical,” informed Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, FHTC co-artistic director. “This is what we call hybrid, so we will be featuring Jonathan’s iconic hits and he even made six, new songs that will be introduced.”
“Audiences can expect a blend of camp, comedy and drama. The show is all about perseverance, family bond, the pursuit of one’s passion,” added Menchu. “Anyone who has ever pursued a dream will see themselves in Delia, with a heart full of dreams and determination to make it big despite the unique challenges she faces.”
Under Dexter Santos’ direction and Vince Lim’s masterful arrangements, the spectacle that is “Delia D” remains grounded in authenticity, blending glamor, vulnerability and fierce determination into a vibrant world where dreams, identity, perseverance and mastery collide.
The cast is led by Phi Palmos playing the titular role of Delia D, joined by Floyd Tena, Tex Ordoñez de Leon, Omar Udin, John “Sweet” Lapus, Shaira Optimar, Joanna Yap-Co, Joshua Cabiladas, Mimi Marquez, Rapah Manalo, Miah Canton, Alfritz Blanche, Natasha Cabrera and Chaye Mogg, with the amazing ensemble and swings.
Director Dexter gave a deeper look into the new, original musical. “Coming from ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo’ and ‘Buruguduystunstugudunstuy,’ the Newport production team kept on asking, ‘What’s next?’ Let’s do something simple.”
“But with the humongous stage of Newport World Resorts, we always challenge ourselves. We are very happy that Jonathan Manalo, who’s celebrating his 24th year with this hybrid musical, is doing a musical with us. This is exciting for us,” said he.
“We present Delia, who is a drag performer and decided to join a reality music competition, ‘Idols of the Galaxy.’ From the contestants, Delia will get to meet and encounter a lot who will foster a different sense of friendship,” continued he. “In terms of the journey, it’s always exciting with the new, Filipino musical. This time, this is not limited to the musical. We’re also doing the narrative, plot points and numbers that will be showcased in performances and the reality competition.”
Delia will also be presented with her family, with John Lapus playing her mother, Mama Eme, who’s actually the owner of the Drag and Tell Bar. Delia’s family is The Divalettes. She will have an endearing journey.”
“Delia D” is a show that you can bring the whole family, friends and barkada. “Masarap makapanood ng isang palabas, where you can see the Filipino is all of us,” direk Dexter maintained. “In terms of our love for music, entertainment world, performance and the importance we give to family and friends, this is not only for Gen-Zs, but for everybody.”
Dexter insisted “Delia D” is different from “Ang Huling El Bimbo” and “Buruguduystunstugudunstuy.”
“In terms of sets and costumes, we will not shortchange the audience,” Dexter said. “This will be exciting, simple but it becomes more meaningful with a totally different experience.”
The team that audiences hardly see but it works tirelessly behind the scenes in putting the show together includes musical director-arranger and vocal arranger Vince Lim; dramaturg Rody Vera; choreographer Stephen Viñas; scenic designer Lawin Cruz; costume designer Mitoy Sta. Ana; musical director and Manila Philharmonic Orchestra president Rodel Colmenar; conductor Mickey Jacinto; and Jonathan Manalo.
Menchu likewise acknowledged the rest of the creative team — playwright Dolly Dulu, video projections designer GA Fallarme, associate video projections designer Joyce Garcia, lights designer John Batalla, sound designer Justin Estacio, sound effects designer RV Dimaculangan, hair and make-up designer Mama Rey de la Cruz and Yohan de la Fuente.
Newport World Resorts chief marketing officer David Jorden welcomed the guests who graced the media conference of “Delia D.”
“At Newport World Resorts, we believe in creating wonderful and unforgettable experiences. So, we invite you to step into the world of Delia D, a musical that we envisage to be a grand showcase of Filipino talent and musical excellence,” said he.
“The show tells the timeless tale of a young artist with a dream, brought to life by the exceptional creativity of the Full House Theater Production.”
David acknowledged their partners from the Original Performing Arts Foundation that collaborate with them to nurture and inspire the next generation of Filipino artists.
“It’s a privilege to work with them every year,” David said. “We look forward to seeing even more talent and creativity flourish through the industry.”
David insisted that Newport World Resorts has got a lot this year and that will be announced in the coming months.
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