Tim Burton’s 1988 film “Beetlejuice” has built a devoted fan base over the years, drawn in by its unique blend of dark humor, captivating visuals and memorable characters. Translating such a popular cult classic to the Broadway stage is no small feat, yet the musical adaptation has managed to create its own identity, capturing the essence of the original while also injecting new life and energy into the story.
The Broadway adaptation of “Beetlejuice,” directed by Alex Timbers and with music and lyrics by Eddie Perfect and a book by Scott Brown and Anthony King, offers a fresh take on Burton’s famous story. The musical play has clearly struck a chord with both diehard film buffs and newcomers, as seen by the massive attendance at venues like the Tennessee Theatre, where attendees wore striped costumes reflecting the title character and Lydia’s gothic wig.
The most notable deviation from the original film is in the portrayal of Beetlejuice himself, brought to life with manic energy by Justin Collette. Unlike Burton’s subtly sinister character, the stage version of Beetlejuice is larger than life, adopting vaudevillian antics and desperate charm that works well for live audiences. This reinterpretation adds a new layer of theatricality, turning Beetlejuice into a charismatic but unpredictable figure who commands attention whenever he appears on stage.
Likewise, characters such as Sarah Litzinger’s Delia and Isabella Esler’s Lydia have been reinterpreted differently from their film versions. Delia’s relationship with Charles and Lydia’s teenage obsession with death have been reinterpreted to fit the musical’s story, presenting new dynamics that challenge convention while respecting the essence of the original characters.
The success of “Beetlejuice” on Broadway is due primarily to its innovative set design and stagecraft, masterfully crafted by David Korins and enhanced by Kenneth Posner’s dynamic lighting. From the meticulously reimagined Connecticut farmhouse to the surreal transitions through other worlds, the set pieces transport the audience into Beetlejuice’s enchanting universe with vivid imagery and technical precision. Peter Nigrini’s animated projections further enrich the visual landscape, seamlessly blending gothic aesthetics with modern theatrical techniques to create a mesmerizing theatrical experience.
However, amid the visual spectacle and passionate performances, the musical sometimes falters in its musical execution. Despite the witty lyrics and energetic performances, some of the songs are overwhelmed by dense electronic orchestration and overly amplified sound, which at times diminishes the clarity and comedic timing necessary to capture the essence of “Beetlejuice.”
However, this musical has many standout moments that highlight its strengths. The production’s ability to add musicality to classic comedy moments, causing the audience to laugh and applaud is best demonstrated by the wild performance of “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” during the dinner party scene. The musical’s ability to combine humor, slapstick, and drama into a coherent and entertaining story that honors Burton’s unique vision is on display in these moments.
‘Beetlejuice’ the Musical succeeds in reimagining a beloved cult classic for the Broadway stage, paying homage to the original film with innovative interpretations that resonate with contemporary audiences. By embracing Burton’s darkly whimsical aesthetic while introducing new elements of drama and humor, the production invites theatergoers on a journey through the afterlife, albeit with occasional technical hiccups. For fans of the film, the live experience of “Beetlejuice” on Broadway offers a fresh perspective on familiar characters and themes, celebrating the enduring legacy of a beloved cult classic while pushing the boundaries of musical theater creativity.
