One of Philippine musical theater’s most fabulous leading ladies Shiela Valderrama is stepping into the unapologetically queer world of Zsazsa Zaturnnah as Intergalactic Queen Femina Suarestellar Baroux in “Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Parteeeh!,” the highly anticipated 20th-anniversary staging of the beloved Filipino musical set for April 2027.

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.

Shiela 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, kailangan 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.

“Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Parteeeh!” hits the stage in April 2027 as it celebrates 20 years of the beloved Filipino musical. Further announcements about the production will follow.