The musical adaptation of Beetlejuice opened on Broadway in April 2019, bringing the iconic Tim Burton movie to life in a new and exciting way. The show is a dark comedy, with a lot of heart and soul, and it has quickly become a fan favorite. It’s no surprise that it has been a hit with audiences, as it brings the same charm and wit of the original film to the stage.
The Story
The story follows the ghostly adventures of a recently deceased couple, Adam and Barbara Maitland, who find themselves stuck in the afterlife. When their attempts to scare away the new inhabitants of their home fail, they turn to the spectral Betelgeuse, a former resident of the underworld, for help. With his zany antics and peculiar charm, Betelgeuse helps the Maitlands reclaim their home, while also learning a few lessons along the way.
The Music
The music for the show was composed by Eddie Perfect, and it captures the spirit of the original movie perfectly. The music is upbeat and catchy, with a mix of rock, pop, and musical theatre styles. It’s easy to find yourself singing along to the show’s many earworms, such as “Say My Name” and “Dead Mom”. Perfect also wrote the lyrics for the show, and they are clever and witty, helping to bring the characters and story to life.
The Cast
The cast of Beetlejuice is led by Tony Award-winning actor Alex Brightman as Betelgeuse. Brightman brings the same energy and charisma to the role that Michael Keaton did in the original movie, and he is perfectly matched with Sophia Anne Caruso as Lydia Deetz, the goth teen who befriends the Maitlands. The cast also includes Tony Award-winner Kerry Butler as Barbara Maitland, Rob McClure as Adam Maitland, and Adam Dannheisser as Charles Deetz. Together, they bring the story to life with their fantastic performances.
The Design
The design of Beetlejuice is just as impressive as the performances. The set design, by David Korins, is a work of art, with a mix of gothic and cartoon elements that bring the underworld to life. The costumes, by William Ivey Long, are also remarkable, from Lydia’s iconic striped dress to Betelgeuse’s wild and wacky get-ups. The special effects are also spectacular, with a mix of puppetry, projections, and pyrotechnics to create a truly unique and unforgettable theatrical experience.
The Reviews
Beetlejuice has received glowing reviews from critics and audiences alike. It has been praised for its catchy music, witty script, and incredible design, and it has quickly become one of the hottest shows on Broadway. It has been nominated for eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and is sure to be a hit for years to come.
Conclusion
Beetlejuice is a delightful and imaginative musical that captures the spirit of the original movie perfectly. With its catchy music, witty script, and incredible design, it is a must-see show for fans of the original film and theatre lovers alike. It is sure to be a hit for years to come, and it is a show that will have you singing and laughing along for days.