Broadway’s ‘Beetlejuice’ Musical Takes Audiences on a Brash Wild Ride

In a lively twist on Tim Burton‘s beloved 1988 film, ‘Beetlejuice’, the Broadway musical adaptation has captivated audiences with its brash and wild ride through the world of the afterlife. The stage musical, crafted by the talented team of Eddie Perfect, Scott Brown, and Anthony King, under the direction of Alex Timbers, offers a fresh take on the iconic tale.

The production, currently on a touring run, has drawn in fans of the original movie, evident from the striped outfits and Gothic hairstyles spotted in the Tennessee Theatre lobby. The character of Beetlejuice, played by Justin Collette, has been magnified into a more manic and desperate figure, exuding vaudeville charm to entertain the audience.

Significant deviations from the original plot of the film are apparent in the musical adaptation. The dynamics between characters like Delia, Charles, and the death-obsessed teenager Lydia have been reimagined, offering a different perspective that diverges from the cinematic nuances of Burton’s work.

One of the highlights of the show lies in the inventive set design by David Korins and the striking lighting by Kenneth Posner. From the reimagined farmhouse living room to the eerie attic where ghosts Barbara and Adam, played by Megan McGinnis and Will Burton, take refuge, the audience embarks on a mesmerizing journey through various fantastical realms.

The technical prowess displayed in the visual effects is remarkable, with Peter Nigrini’s animated projections seamlessly transitioning scenes and adding depth to the unfolding narrative. However, the overpowering electronic orchestration at times eclipses the lyrical essence of the musical numbers, leaving some songs underappreciated by the audience.

Despite the musical’s occasional missteps in pacing and tonal balance, standout moments like the uproarious rendition of ‘Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)’ at a dinner party injects humor and energy into the production. While the creators’ penchant for ‘more’ yields a visually stunning spectacle, it occasionally overshadows the creative depth that made the original film a cult classic.