Almond Bolante Reprises Beloved Role of Didi in “Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Parteeeh!”
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.
HONORING AN ICONIC THEATRICAL LEGACY
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 two other fabulous actors by 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.”
A VERSATILE PERFORMER WITH INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM
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.
WELCOMING DIDI BACK TO THE STAGE
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.
CELEBRATING QUEER STORIES AND SELF-ACCEPTANCE
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.
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