Almond Bolante, Shiela Valderrama join cast of ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah’ revival

Almond Bolante and Shiela Valderrama are joining the cast of “Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Parteeeh!,” the 20th-anniversary production of the beloved Filipino musical, with Bolante playing Didi, Ada’s loyal best friend, and Valderrama taking on the role of Queen Femina Suarestellar Baroux, the flamboyant ruler of Planet XXX. 

The musical is set to return to the stage in April 2027, bringing back its irreverent humor, larger-than-life characters and celebration of queer identity.

As Ada’s best friend and assistant at the beauty parlor, Didi is more than just a confidant. He is a constant source of encouragement, humor, and emotional support throughout Ada’s extraordinary journey.

When a mysterious stone falls into Ada’s hands, it is Didi who encourages her to swallow it, setting her transformation into motion. He also gives the newly transformed superheroine her iconic name, making him an indispensable part of Zsazsa Zaturnnah’s origin story.

Through his infectious humor, flamboyant personality, and unwavering friendship, Didi brings both laughter and heart to the musical.

Having portrayed Didi in a 2023 university production of “Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical,” Bolante returns to the role with a deeper appreciation for the performers who helped define the character.

“The opportunity to portray Didi once again, this time for a wider audience, is truly both an honor and a responsibility,” Bolante shared.

“Napakahusay at iconic ang naging portrayal ng Mama ko na si Ricci Chan, who originated the role in 2006; followed by two other fabulous actors Nar Cabico and the late Joey Paras, who left their own mark on this character. To step into a role that has been so beautifully brought to life by these incredible artists is both humbling and deeply meaningful. I carry with me not just the character, but also the legacy, the love, and the stories that came before me.”

Bolante brings to the production an impressive background in theater and music, with performances spanning Philippine stages and international competitions.

He began his theater career portraying Javert in a 2012 production of “Les Misérables” at Miriam College. He later took on the role of Pio Valenzuela in “Pingkian, Isang Musikal” and portrayed Ogassi in the 2026 staging of “Tales of the Manuvu.”

Beyond theater, Bolante is the pop countertenor of Acapellago, a multi-awarded Filipino a cappella group that has represented the Philippines in competitions and performances across Europe, Asia, and the Pacific.

In 2018, he earned international recognition when he won Best Male Performer at the CHVOCALS Golden A Cappella Awards in Shenzhen, China.

Wishbone Collective president and director Chris Cahilig expressed confidence in the actor’s ability to bring renewed energy to a character that has become an enduring favorite among Filipino theater audiences.

“We’re excited to see what new things Almond will bring to the role. ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah’ has always had a special place in Filipino theater, not just because it makes people laugh, but because there’s so much heart behind the humor. We look forward to welcoming back longtime fans while introducing the musical to a new generation of audiences,” Cahilig said.

For Bolante, the enduring appeal of “Zsazsa Zaturnnah” extends far beyond its outrageous humor, colorful characters, and theatrical spectacle.

At its core, the musical celebrates queer identity, friendship, acceptance, and the courage to embrace one’s authentic self. Through fantasy, comedy, larger-than-life soul and gospel music, it gives voice to experiences and emotions that resonate with audiences regardless of gender or sexuality.

“Queer stories, in particular, deserve to be told with honesty, courage, humor, and so much love. Through ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah,’ we get to share with the world the fantasies, mga dreams, mga struggles, at mga katotohanan na nabubuhay sa isip at puso ng sangkabadingan. P’wedeng mga fantasies lang ito pero ‘yung mga emotions behind them are real. The longing to be accepted, the courage to be ourselves, the joy of finding our people, and the freedom to imagine a world where we can exist without apology. Ito ‘yung universal truths na nagkokonekta sa ating lahat,” he said.

As the musical celebrates two decades of entertaining and inspiring Filipino audiences, Bolante hopes its message will continue to challenge perspectives, encourage empathy, and create space for stories that deserve to be heard.

He hopes to explore further the character’s humor and humanity while introducing a new generation to the friendship, courage, and unapologetic self-expression that have made “Zsazsa Zaturnnah” a beloved part of Philippine theater.

Meanwhile, one of Philippine musical theater’s most fabulous leading ladies Shiela Valderrama is stepping into this unapologetically queer world as Intergalactic Queen Femina Suarestellar Baroux.

As the powerful ruler of Planet XXX and leader of the screwball Amazonistas, Queen Femina reigns supreme as one of Zsazsa Zaturnnah’s most iconic adversaries. Known for her commanding presence, sharp wit, and larger-than-life personality, she delivers a fabulous mix of comedy, spectacle, and gloriously over-the-top camp.

Valderrama joins a distinguished lineup of performers who have brought Queen Femina to life through the years. In the original 2006 production, the role was shared by Agot Isidro and Kalila Aguilos. Meliza Reyes-Uy took on the character in the 2009 staging, followed by Pinky Amador in 2011. In the 2023 student production “Zsazsa Zaturnnah the Musical… ‘Yun Lang!,” Kakki Teodoro added her own interpretation to the role.

With each staging introducing a new performer to the character, Valderrama now becomes part of this theatrical legacy as the musical celebrates two decades onstage.

For composer, lyricist, and musical director Vincent A. DeJesus, Queen Femina captures the bold, outrageous, and theatrical spirit of Zsazsa Zaturnnah.

“Ang ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah’ ay isang hyper camp universe, at si Queen Femina ay larger than life! She is commanding, theatrical, and totally a loose cannon. When she enters a scene, she is bound to steal the spotlight when she starts flexing her superb martial arts capabilities downloaded by her Vanessa Leon battle gown. You’ll see what I mean when you watch the musical. Shiela’s musical theater chops make her a great fit for the role. Kailangan dito ng comic timing, vocal power, at vavavoom physical presence. Hindi puwedeng puro awra lang, kailangang may ibubuga!” he said.

With a career spanning 35 years, Valderrama has established herself as one of the Philippines’ accomplished and versatile performers, working across musical theater, concerts, television, film, and live events. Her theater credits include demanding roles such as Diana Goodman in “Next to Normal,” Fosca in Stephen Sondheim’s “Passion,” and Erzulie in “Once on This Island.”

Her performance in “Next to Normal” earned her the 2025 Aliw Award for Best Lead Actress in a Musical.

Her experience also extends to international productions. Valderrama was part of Hong Kong Disneyland’s opening team, where she performed as Bebe in “The Golden Mickeys” and became the first Asian performer to portray Nala in “Festival of the Lion King.” She was also part of Broadway Asia’s Asian tour of “Cinderella” as an alternate for the title role. These experiences have further demonstrated her range as a performer, from intimate dramatic roles to large-scale musical productions.

Her achievements have earned her recognition from several award-giving bodies, including the Awit Awards, Philstage Gawad Buhay, LEAF, and the Aliw Awards. Most recently, PeopleAsia named her one of its Women of Style and Substance for 2026, recognizing women whose work and accomplishments have made a mark in their respective fields.

Valderrama now brings her extensive stage experience to the role of Queen Femina, whose irreverent humor and delightfully subversive character have helped make the world of Zsazsa Zaturnnah so distinctive. Her casting adds a new chapter to the musical’s colorful history as the 20th-anniversary production brings back the unforgettable characters and story that have entertained audiences for two decades.