Viñas Deluxe lands role of Trisha in ‘Die Beautiful’ musical after intense auditions

Viñas Deluxe recalls tough, bare-faced auditions as she steps into her first major stage role as Trisha Echevarria. 

After nearly a decade, Trisha Echevarria—the iconic pageant queen and makeup artist portrayed by Paolo Ballesteros—is returning, this time onstage.

The role previously earned Ballesteros Best Actor awards at the Tokyo International Film Festival, Metro Manila Film Festival, and Urian Awards.

Viñas Deluxe will take on the role as “Die Beautiful” transitions into a stage musical, set for a 2027 run.

Though this marks a major musical lead for Viñas, she has a strong theater background, having performed with the FEU Theater Guild and DLSU Harlequin Theatre Guild.

She has also spent 11 years as a professional drag artist. Still, stepping into a role as culturally ingrained as Trisha comes with its own challenges.

Did she breeze through the auditions, or did she have to fight for her crown?

“Mas sanay ako sa lip-sync, at sa makapal na makeup at costumes before umakyat sa stage,” Viñas shares with a laugh. “So nanibago talaga ako sa audition. Mas nahiya ako kasi bare-faced ako nag-audition. Feeling ko nakahubad ako at lahat sila nakatingin sa akin!”

For Viñas, the opportunity is both intimidating and full-circle. “This is new turf for me. First time ko mag-major play, and ‘Die Beautiful’ pa? It’s actually one of the reasons drag queen ako ngayon. Kaya I’m very excited to learn in this journey together with the most talented people in the industry. I’m just so excited and grateful.”

The audition crucible

Stepping into the audition room meant facing a rigorous selection process overseen by the creative triumvirate of Jun Robles Lana (playwright), Tuxqs Rutaquio (director), and Elmer Gatchalian (Artistic Director ng IdeaFirst Live).

“First, I was hesitant to audition because I know that it’s going to be hard—and I was right!” Viñas recalls. “They sent a choreography video that we needed to learn. I’m glad a very good dancer friend of mine, Omar, helped me perfect the routine. Doon pa lang, na-challenge na ako. Sabi ko, nag-effort na ako rito, itodo ko na ‘to.”

The challenges didn’t stop at dancing. “I memorized a monologue they sent us as well. Drama ito, mga mama! And finally, the singing part. I’m very lucky to be guided by my teacher, Sweet Tiongson, kaya mas naging confident ako kumanta no’ng auditions. It was so intimidating to see such talented artists with me that day, but I decided to just enjoy the process because the energies of The IdeaFirst Company team were very welcoming.”

The essence of Trisha Echevarria

As originally envisioned by filmmaker Lana, Trisha Echevarria represents unyielding resilience and the unapologetic pursuit of one’s authentic self. 

Born as Patrick, Trisha faces early rejection and abuse from her conservative, transphobic father, forcing her to leave home. 

Despite societal marginalization, trauma, and financial hardships, she carves out a beautiful, chosen life on her own terms. 

For Trisha, beauty pageants are far from superficial; they serve as a battleground for dignity and a stage where she can command absolute respect.

When asked what audiences should anticipate most in this musical reimagining, Viñas’ dedication to the character shines through.

“I’m excited to bring Trisha back to life with love, dedication, and respect. I hope ma-relay ko nang maayos ang message ng play and maaliw sa amin ang mga manonood. For sure, magiging masigla at makulay itong musical na ‘to!”

The musical adaptation is set for a 2027 staging under Rutaquio’s direction.

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