"Death Becomes Her" Broadway: A Hilarious Haunting Takes The Stage
"Death Becomes Her" Broadway: A Hilarious Haunting Takes the Stage
Broadway is about to get a whole lot younger... or maybe unyounger? The stage adaptation of the 1992 cult classic film "Death Becomes Her" is officially haunting the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, and early buzz suggests audiences are in for a deliciously dark and comedic treat. Previews began April 23, 2024, and the official opening is set for May 9, 2024.
The Plot: Eternal Youth with Deadly Consequences
For those unfamiliar with the film, "Death Becomes Her" tells the story of Madeline Ashton (played on Broadway by Megan Hilty) and Helen Sharp (Jennifer Simard), two rivals locked in a decades-long competition for beauty, fame, and the affections of plastic surgeon Ernest Menville (Christopher Sieber). Their already strained relationship spirals into the bizarre and macabre when they both separately discover and consume a potion promising eternal youth. The only catch? Immortality isn't all it's cracked up to be, especially when accidents happen, and cracks - both literal and metaphorical - start to appear.
The Creative Team: A Stellar Collaboration
The musical boasts a powerhouse creative team, led by:
- Book: Marco Pennette (Emmy-winning writer for "Ugly Betty")
- Music and Lyrics: Julia Mattison and Noel Carey (known for their viral musical parodies and original works)
- Director: Christopher Gattelli (Tony Award winner for "Newsies")
- Choreographer: Christopher Gattelli
This combination of comedic writing, catchy tunes, and dynamic staging promises to bring the film's zany energy to life in a fresh and engaging way.
The Cast: A Trio of Talented Performers
The success of any production hinges on its cast, and "Death Becomes Her" has assembled a trio of Broadway veterans who are more than capable of delivering the laughs and pathos required.
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Megan Hilty as Madeline Ashton: Hilty is best known for her roles in "Wicked" and "Smash."
Megan Hilty Biography: Megan Kathleen Hilty (born March 29, 1981) is an American actress and singer. She is best known for her roles as Glinda in Wicked (both touring and Broadway productions), Doralee Rhodes in 9 to 5: The Musical, and Ivy Lynn in the NBC musical drama Smash. Hilty hails from Bellevue, Washington, where she began taking voice lessons at a young age. She attended the Washington Academy of Performing Arts and later Carnegie Mellon University, graduating in 2004. Before her breakthrough role in Wicked, she participated in several regional theatre productions. In addition to her stage work, Hilty has appeared in various television shows and films. Her vocal talent has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. She is married to actor Brian Gallagher and has two children.
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Jennifer Simard as Helen Sharp: Simard is a Tony Award nominee known for her comedic timing and versatility in shows like "Company" and "Disaster!"
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Christopher Sieber as Ernest Menville: Sieber is a two-time Tony Award nominee with a knack for playing quirky and endearing characters, as seen in "Spamalot" and "Shrek the Musical."
What to Expect: A Darkly Comic Spectacle
Based on early reviews and audience reactions from previews, "Death Becomes Her" is shaping up to be a darkly comic spectacle. The musical stays true to the spirit of the film while adding new layers of humor and heart. Expect extravagant costumes, impressive special effects (how exactly do you make a character walk around with a hole in their stomach on stage?), and catchy musical numbers that will have you humming long after the curtain falls. The songs are described as witty, clever, and perfectly suited to the over-the-top personalities of Madeline and Helen.
The Message: More Than Just Gags
While the show is undeniably a comedy, it also explores themes of aging, insecurity, and the desperate lengths people will go to in pursuit of external validation. Beneath the laughs, "Death Becomes Her" offers a poignant commentary on our society's obsession with youth and beauty. As the characters grapple with the consequences of their choices, audiences are invited to reflect on their own values and priorities.
Audience Reaction: Laughs and Gasps
Early audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Many have praised the cast's performances, the inventive staging, and the show's ability to balance humor and heart. The special effects, in particular, have been a major talking point, with many wondering how the creative team managed to bring the film's most memorable visual gags to life on stage.
One audience member commented, "I went in expecting a fun, campy show, but I was blown away by the talent and the creativity. It's hilarious, but it also has something to say about how we treat ourselves and each other."
Another said, "Jennifer Simard and Megan Hilty are comedic geniuses! They completely embody their characters, and their chemistry is amazing."
Controversy: Is It TOO Dark?
While the initial response is positive, some critics have questioned whether the show's dark humor and themes of death and vanity will appeal to a wider audience. A few have suggested that the show leans too heavily into the macabre, potentially alienating some viewers.
However, most reviews acknowledge that the darkness is a crucial part of the story and that the show ultimately succeeds in balancing the macabre with genuine humor and emotional depth.
Where to Get Tickets: Securing Your Seat to Immortality
Tickets for "Death Becomes Her" are available through various online ticketing platforms and at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre box office. Given the early buzz and the show's star power, it's recommended to book tickets in advance.
Q & A: Your Burning "Death Becomes Her" Questions Answered
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Q: Is it a direct adaptation of the movie?
- A: While it stays true to the film's core plot and characters, the musical introduces new songs, scenes, and comedic elements, offering a fresh perspective on the story.
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Q: Is it appropriate for children?
- A: Due to its dark humor, themes of death and vanity, and some potentially scary visual effects, "Death Becomes Her" is generally recommended for mature audiences (teens and adults).
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Q: What's the standout element of the production?
- A: Many people highlight the cast's performances (particularly Hilty and Simard), the creative staging, and the inventive special effects as standout elements.
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Q: Is it worth seeing even if I haven't seen the movie?
- A: Yes! While fans of the film will appreciate the nods to the original, the musical is designed to be enjoyable for newcomers as well. The story is engaging and the humor is universal.
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Q: Will I be humming the songs afterward?
- A: Almost certainly! The musical score is catchy, clever, and perfectly complements the show's comedic tone.
Summary: "Death Becomes Her" has come to Broadway, offering a darkly comic tale of eternal youth gone wrong. Starring Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, and Christopher Sieber, the musical adaptation promises laughs, impressive special effects, and a thought-provoking exploration of beauty and aging. Will audiences embrace this darkly humorous spectacle? Early signs point to a resounding "yes!"
Keywords: Death Becomes Her, Broadway, Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, Christopher Sieber, Musical, Review, Previews, Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, Eternal Youth, Comedy, Dark Humor, Theatre, New York City, Broadway Tickets, Marco Pennette, Julia Mattison, Noel Carey, Christopher Gattelli.