One of the most beloved stories in contemporary Filipino cinema is heading to the stage—and it is doing so with two of the country’s brightest drag stars at the helm.

IdeaFirst Live has announced that Drag Race Philippines Season 3 winner Maxie Andreison and Drag Race Philippines Season 1 and Slaysian Royale standout Viñas Deluxe will alternate in the role of Trisha Echevarria in Die Beautiful: The Musical, opening in June 2027 at the Proscenium Theater in Rockwell, Makati.

Originally portrayed by Paolo Ballesteros in the critically acclaimed 2016 film, Trisha Echevarria became an iconic character whose story of beauty, identity, friendship, and chosen family resonated with audiences both in the Philippines and abroad. Ballesteros' performance earned Best Actor honors at the 29th Tokyo International Film Festival and the 42nd Metro Manila Film Festival.

For director Tuxqs Rutaquio, bringing Trisha to the musical stage required artists capable of balancing comedy, drama, and powerful vocals while capturing the character’s vulnerability and authenticity.

“We are thrilled to have Maxie and Viñas alternately play Trisha Echevarria,” Rutaquio shared. “The role of Trisha has become iconic, celebrated for her humor, heart, vulnerability, and unapologetic authenticity.”

Acclaimed filmmaker Jun Robles Lana, who is personally adapting his award-winning masterpiece for the stage, also expressed his excitement over the casting.

“Bringing Trisha to life on stage requires a rare kind of magic, and Maxie and Viñas have that,” Lana said. “Watching them bring their own flavor, humor, and fierce heart to a character so personal to me is thrilling. I can't wait for audiences to see how they will elevate Trisha's story into something fresh yet wonderfully familiar.”

As accomplished drag performers and champions in their own right, Maxie and Viñas bring not only charisma and stage presence to the role, but also a deep understanding of the resilience, humanity, and joy that have made Trisha such a beloved character. Their distinct interpretations promise audiences two equally compelling portrayals of a role that has become a touchstone for LGBTQIA+ representation in Philippine popular culture.

Produced by IdeaFirst Live, Die Beautiful: The Musical reimagines the acclaimed film as a live theatrical experience infused with music, spectacle, humor, and heart, while preserving the emotional core that made the original resonate with audiences around the world.

With preparations already underway a full year ahead of opening, Die Beautiful: The Musical is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated theatrical events of 2027. 

More details regarding the complete cast, creative team, performance dates, and ticketing information are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Photos courtesy of IdeaFirst Live.