Shaira Opsimar
If a musical is only as strong as its cast, then Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo is in powerful hands. Newport World Resorts’ newest production is helmed by three critically acclaimed performers—Phi Palmos, Shaira Opsimar, and Floyd Tena—each bringing their unique artistry and experience to the stage.
Phi Palmos
Award-winning actor, singer, and advocate Phi Palmos uses his craft to promote representation, bringing life to characters that challenge perspectives and redefine narratives. With standout roles in Rak of Aegis, Ang Huling El Bimbo, and Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah, he has built a body of work that is both fearless and impactful.
Now, in the titular role of Delia D., Palmos takes on his most mature role yet. “This is the most mature role I’ve ever done—both emotionally and in scale,” he says. “Audiences will see a completely different Phi Palmos in this musical.
Shaira Opsimar
Shaira Opsimar knows how to take the stage and own it. A The Voice of the Philippines Season 2 alum, Gawad Buhay awardee, Acapellago member, and LEAF Awards nominee, she has built a career known for her vocal power, emotional depth, and drive to push boundaries. Her breakout role in Rak of Aegis Seasons 6 and 7 opened many doors for her, both in theater and beyond.
In Delia D., Opsimar faces a new challenge that calls for a different kind of strength. “The character requires a different version of palaban from me. I’m excited to explore the character more,” she shares.
Floyd Tena
Floyd Tena has always embraced a challenge. A seasoned multimedia artist with a diverse career in theater, television, and film, he is known for his powerful, nuanced performances. Tena has brought depth to every role, from Going Home to Christmas to One More Chance The Musical, Ibarra The Musical, Hukay, and Himala: Isang Musikal.
His next role, however, presents something new for him. “I think it’s my first time playing a full gay character,” Tena says. Despite being openly gay, he admits that portraying queerness on stage has required unexpected introspection. “I always tell my director, ‘Tyang, please guide me, because I know I’m gay, but I don’t know how to play a gay character.’”
After a year of critical acclaim, including a Gawad Buhay nomination for Sandosenang Sapatos and a celebrated performance in the 2024 film Gomburza, which won Scene of the Year from the Film Critics Society of the Philippines, Tena is ready to embrace this role, eager to learn, unlearn, and discover new aspects of his artistry.
Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo runs from April 25 to June 8 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The production blends camp, comedy, and drama while highlighting the values of perseverance, family bonds, and the pursuit of one’s passions. Anyone who has pursued a dream will see themselves in Delia, a magnetic drag performer with a heart full of dreams and the determination to make it big, despite the unique challenges she faces.
Tickets are now available for Delia D. at TicketWorld, HelixPay and Newport World Resorts Box Office: P3,500 (SVIP), P3,000 (VIP), P2,500 (gold), P1,800 (silver), and P1,000 (bronze). For inquiries, call 7908-8888 or 0917-872-8237 or email info@fhtcentertainment.com. For bulk purchases and show buyers, call 09178292173 or 0917810 5031. (MARY SY)