Newport World Resorts is committed to delivering world-class productions, and 2025 is no exception. Following hits like “Ang Huling El Bimbo” and “Buruguduystunstugudunstuy,” Newport is bringing bolder, bigger productions, with “Delia D” leading the charge.
David Jorden, chief marketing officer of Newport World Resorts, welcomed the guests attending the media conference for “Delia D,” a musical featuring the original songs of Jonathan Manalo.
“It’s a pleasure to have you here and showcase this dynamic, larger-than-life production,” Jorden said. “At Newport World Resorts, we believe in creating wonderful and unforgettable experiences. We invite you to step into the world of ‘Delia D,’ a musical that we envision to be a grand showcase of Filipino talent and musical excellence.
“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 Company (FHTC).”
Jorden also acknowledged their partners from the Original Performing Arts Foundation, who collaborate with them in nurturing and inspiring the next generation of Filipino artists.
“It’s a privilege to work with them every year,” Jorden said. “We look forward to seeing even more talent and creativity flourish through the industry.”
Jorden emphasized that Newport World Resorts has more to offer this year, with announcements coming in the months ahead.
“Delia D” is the eleventh major theatrical production from Newport World Resorts’ production outfit, Full House Theater Company. The show will feature original music by Jonathan Manalo, who was recently recognized as one of the most-streamed songwriter-producers in the world, with over eight billion streams.
“The musical is truly different because it’s not a typical jukebox musical,” informed Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, FHTC co-artistic director. “This is a hybrid, featuring Jonathan’s iconic hits, along with six new songs he has composed specifically for the show.”
“Audiences can expect a blend of camp, comedy and drama. The show is about perseverance, family bonds and the pursuit of one’s passion.
“Anyone who has ever pursued a dream will see themselves in Delia, with a heart full of dreams and the determination to make it big, despite the unique challenges she faces,” added Menchu.
Delia is a fierce, larger-than-life drag performer with jaw-dropping lip-synching skills and spot-on impersonations. Yet she dreams of more – to become a world-famous singer like the icons she worships.
Her ambition leads her to a callback for “Idols of the Galaxy,” the biggest televised singing competition. With unstoppable ambition, Delia dives into the cutthroat contest, facing ruthless rivals, unexpected friendships and a smooth, worthy competitor whose undeniable chemistry sparks both romance and rivalry.
Featuring electrifying music by Manalo and Vince Lim’s masterful arrangements, the show amplifies Delia’s journey of self-discovery through pop anthems, triumphs and heartbreaks.
Under the direction of Dexter Santos, the spectacle that is “Delia D” remains grounded in authenticity, blending glamour, vulnerability and fierce determination into a vibrant world where dreams, identity, perseverance and mastery collide.
The cast is led by Phi Palmos, playing 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, along with the “amazing” ensemble and swings.
The team that audiences may not see but works tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the show together includes dramaturg Rody Vera, choreographer Stephen Viñas, scenic designer Lawin Cruz, costume designer Mitoy Sta. Ana, musical director and Manila Philharmonic Orchestra president Rodel Colmenar and conductor Mickey Jacinto.
Menchu also acknowledged the rest of the creative team – playwright Dolly Dulu, musical director 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.
Director Dexter Santos shared a deeper look into the new, original musical: “Coming from ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo’ and ‘Buruguduystunstugudunstuy,’ the Newport production team kept asking, ‘What’s next?’ Let’s do something simple. But with the humungous 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 collaborating with us. This is exciting for us…
“In terms of the journey, it’s always exciting to work on a new Filipino musical. This time, it’s not just about the music – we’re also exploring the narrative, plot points, and numbers that will be showcased in the performances and the reality competition.”
