If they say 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 own artistry and experience to the stage.
Award-winning actor, singer, and advocate Phi Palmos has made it his mission to use his craft as a vehicle for representation, breathing life into characters that challenge perspectives and redefine narratives. Whether on stage, television, or film, Palmos has built a body of work that is as fearless as it is impactful. His standout performances include “Rak of Aegis,” “Ang Huling El Bimbo” and “Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah.” He has mastered the art of transformation, bringing complexity and nuance to every role.
Now, taking on the titular role in Delia D., Palmos pushes himself to new artistic depths. “This is the most mature role I’ve ever done — both in terms of emotions and scale,” he shares. “Ibang ibang Phi Palmos ang mapapanood ninyo.”
Shaira Opsimar knows what it means to take the stage—and own it. A The Voice of the Philippines Season 2 alum, Gawad Buhay awardee, member of acclaimed acappella group Acapellago, and LEAF Awards nominee, she has built a career defined by vocal power, emotional depth, and an unrelenting drive to push boundaries. Her breakout in Rak of Aegis Seasons 6 and 7 was a turning point. “It opened a lot of doors for me—not just in theater, but even beyond it,” she says, reflecting on the impact of the beloved musical on her career.
In the musical, Opsimar faces an entirely new challenge — one that demands a different kind of strength. “The character requires a different version of palaban from me. I’m excited to explore the character more.”
Floyd Tena has never been one to shy away from a challenge. A seasoned multimedia artist with an extensive body of work in theater, television, and film, he has built a career on powerful, nuanced performances. Tena has brought depth and authenticity to every role he has taken on, from “Going Home to Christmas” to the smash hit “One More Chance: The Musical,” “Ibarra The Musical,” “Hukay” and “Himala: Isang Musikal.” His next role presents something new — even for the multi-hyphenated performer. “I think it’s my first time to play a full gay character,” Tena shares. Despite being openly gay, he admits that portraying queerness on stage requires a level of introspection he had not expected. “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’ — which is weird, right?”
Fresh from a year of critical acclaim — including a Gawad Buhay nomination for “Sandosenang Sapatos” and a celebrated performance in the 2024 film “Gomburza,” Tena is stepping into this role with open arms, ready to learn, unlearn, and discover new facets 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. For inquiries, contact Customer Care at 7908-8888 or 0917-872-8237 or email info@fhtcentertainment.com.
