Author: Travis Hayward
Los Angeles’ historic Hollywood Pantages Theatre recently hosted the exhilarating national touring production of Beetlejuice the Musical. The show is a tempestuous whirlwind of emotions, seamlessly blending raucous humor with tender moments that touch on the human experience of grief and recovery. For those fortunate enough to attend, it was a theatrical event oscillating between uproarious laughter and heartfelt tears.
Justin Collette took center stage with his riveting performance as the iconic Ghost with the Most, Beetlejuice. His portrayal was a masterclass in theatricality, brilliantly marrying comedy with elements of the macabre. Opposite him, Isabella Esler shone as Lydia Deetz. Her portrayal of the young goth, dealing with the trauma of her mother’s demise, was strikingly authentic and deeply touching. Esler’s Lydia was a melting pot of teenage rebellion and palpable vulnerability.
The narrative was further enriched by Britney Coleman and Will Burton, who embodied the ghostly couple, Barbara and Adam Maitland. Trapped between realms, their palpable chemistry brought humor and sentimentality, reminding us of the timeless nature of love. While Jesse Sharp’s Charles Deetz exuded a clueless charm, Kate Marilley’s Delia burst onto the scene with comedic brilliance, adding fun to the story.
While the risqué humor of “Beetlejuice the Musical” might raise eyebrows, the maturity it handles themes of grief and loss provides depth and gravitas. The show navigates its audacious comedic beats while ensuring that its heart – the exploration of the human experience with grief – remains palpable.
Director Alex Timbers deserves special commendation. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Tim Burton film, Timbers has crafted a stage experience that is both a nod to the original and a fresh take for the theater-going audience. The sets, the sequences, and the sheer ambiance resonated with the film’s quirky, dark charm.
Eddie Perfect’s musical score is one of the production’s crowning achievements. By melding rock with Broadway tunes, Perfect has created a soundscape that complements the chaotic, emotional rollercoaster the characters endure, adding depth to their arcs and the narrative as a whole.
In the end, “Beetlejuice the Musical” is more than just another adaptation. It’s a testament to theater’s power to entertain and move its audience deeply. With its blend of humor, heart, and sheer theatrical magic, the show is a must-watch.
Dive into the Afterlife’s Antics!
Ready to laugh, cry, and maybe do a little ghostly jig? Catch “Beetlejuice the Musical” on its national tour! For dates and tickets, visit https://beetlejuicebroadway.com/. Don’t miss this phantasmagorical experience!
