Rising drag artist Jamila Rivera is the modern Maxie Oh

The beloved queer icon Maximo Oliveros is making a dazzling return, stepping into the spotlight as Maxie Oh in "Dalaga na si Maxie Oliveros: A Drag Musical Extravaganza." This bold sequel to the acclaimed coming-of-age film sees Maxie all grown up and ready to navigate a world of glitter and grit.

Breathing vibrant new life into this iconic character is rising drag artist Jamila Rivera. Hailing from Naga City and currently a college student, Jamila brings her own "paandar, palaban, and pasabog" energy to the role, making her a truly modern Maxie.

Jamila, who performs out of drag as Jam Rivera, found an immediate connection when she saw the audition call online. As she put it, "Oh my God, this is me. This is for me." The themes of the show – Maxie's journey, the world of drag, and theater itself – deeply resonated with her, prompting her to travel to Manila for a chance at the role.

Remarkably, Jamila's own journey into drag is relatively recent, mirroring Maxie's expected discovery of this world within the musical's narrative. Debuting on June 30, 2024, at a Pride event in Naga organized by Bicol Drag PH, Jamila's emergence highlights the transformative power of drag.

Known for her impressive vocals and glamorous, Hollywoodesque style, Jamila credits her drag sisters in Bicol Drag PH for their support and guidance. This sense of finding family mirrors Maxie's journey in the musical, where she finds acceptance and belonging among her own drag sisters.

Portraying Maxie is both an immense honor and a significant responsibility for Jamila. She recognizes the character's iconic status in Filipino queer culture and feels compelled to tell Maxie's story with accuracy and heart, believing it will resonate deeply with many in the audience.

"Dalaga na si Maxie Oliveros" is more than a typical musical; it's an immersive, interactive experience designed to blur the lines between performers and the audience. It celebrates queer joy, resilience, and transformation through a fusion of drag show, musical theater, and a powerful call to action.

Musical director Melvin Lee emphasizes the show's aim to reveal the person behind the drag persona, highlighting the truth and vulnerability inherent in every performance. Jamila's audition, where she was asked to strip away the performative layer and connect emotionally, showcased the rawness Lee sought for the role.

For Jamila, a provincial artist entering the industry in Manila, this role represents a valuable opportunity to connect with a new community and further her artistic growth. Working alongside respected Manila drag artists and talented actors provides a rich environment for learning and self-discovery.

The musical continues the legacy of the original 2005 film and the subsequent 2013 musical adaptation. Running from June 13 to 22 at Illumination Studio in Makati City, the production also partners with Pantay, a youth-led movement advocating for LGBTQIA+ equality and human rights, with a portion of proceeds supporting their work.