At the heart of Delia D.: A Musical is a tender, triumphant story of motherhood—told through the powerful songs of Jonathan Manalo.
This vibrant production invites audiences to celebrate every momshie and nanay as it follows Delia’s journey from drag bar darling to reality show hopeful. Along the way, the spotlight shines not just on her rise to stardom, but on the two very different mothers who shaped her: Anet, her steadfast biological mom, and Mama Eme, her fierce and fabulous drag mother.
Anet: The Quiet Strength of a Mother’s Love
While she remains largely in the background of Delia’s journey from drag bar performer to singing contest hopeful, Anet’s presence—portrayed by Joann Yap Co—is constant, grounding, and deeply felt. She is the loving and supportive biological mother of Delia, the kind of mother who may not fully grasp the glitzy, unpredictable world her child moves through, but chooses to love without condition.
Mama Eme: Fierce, Tough, and Full of Heart
Through the emotional and artistic demands of the drag world, Mama Eme—portrayed by John “Sweet” Lapus—guides Delia and the D’ Divalettes. Lapus brings to life a character who commands and supports in equal measure. She pushes the queens not just to perform well, but to survive and succeed as individuals. There is nothing soft or saccharine about Mama Eme’s way of mothering, but it is rooted in care all the same.
Chasing a Dream in Heels and Harmony
Until June 8 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, the fierce and fabulous drag performer Delia will light up the stage with her lip-syncing and impersonations for as long as she can remember. A dream to become a world-famous singer—a powerhouse belter like the divas she worships—burns brighter than the spotlight.
High Stakes, Heartbreaks, and the Spotlight
Despite ruthless divas in the cutthroat contest Idols of the Galaxy, Delia dives headfirst, fueled by unstoppable ambition. Unlikely allies and a swoon-worthy rival set the stage for high-stakes drama, fierce showdowns, and perhaps even the spark of romance.
Music, Identity, and the Power of Performance
The show heightens Delia’s journey of self-discovery through pop anthems, triumphs, and heartbreaks. Featuring electrifying music by Jonathan Manalo (“Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw”) and Vince Lim’s masterful arrangements, the spectacle remains grounded in authenticity—blending glamour, vulnerability, and fierce determination into a vibrant world where dreams, identity, and music collide under Dexter M. Santos’ sharp direction.
Delia D.: A Musical runs until June 8 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila.
Tickets are available at: TicketWorld outlets nationwide and at the Newport World Resorts Box Office.
