Beetlejuice

Beetlejuice

Winter Garden Theatre

August 20, 2019

Photo courtesy of Beetlejuice

The Broadway production of Beetlejuice is wild, crazy, and over the top.  Director Alex Timbers pulls out all the stops.  The minute you walk into the Winter Garden Theatre you are drawn into a fun house atmosphere.  Music and lyrics by Eddie Perfect establish an environment and pace that keeps the audience captivated and engaged.  The choreography by Connor Gallagher is energetic and creative.  The scenic design by David Korins, costume design by William Ivey Long, and lighting design by Kenneth Posner brilliantly come together, making the show a visual feast that exceeds the highest expectation.

Rob McClure, Alex Brightman, & Kerry Butler
Photo courtesy of Beetlejuice

The show opens in a cemetery.  Lydia (played by Sophia Anne Caruso) is burying her mother.  Enter Beetlejuice (played by Alex Brightman), who lightens the mood by making it clear that the story we are about to see is “all about death.”  He needs to get a living person to say his name three times in order to achieve his quest, which is to be seen by the living.  He visits the home of Barbara (played by Kerry Butler) and Adam (played by Rob McClure).  They are about to die.  They will be able to see him as they pass over.  His plan is to trick them into helping him by getting them to haunt their house.  When the new owner, Charles (played by Adam Dannheisser) moves in with his daughter Lydia and their Life Coach, Delia (played by Leslie Kritzer), they all face one life and death encounter after another.

Leslie Kritzer & Adam Dannheisser
Photo courtesy of Beetlejuice

The only way to make this raucous story work is with a cast that can bring it to life and make it believable.  Every member of the cast rises to that challenge.  Alex Brightman is absolutely amazing in this role.  He is a vocal powerhouse, instantly switching tone and intention.  His comic timing is impeccable.  His energy is sharp and awe-inspiring.  Leslie Kritzer  also delivers a phenomenal performance.  Her timing and physicality are perfect.  Her range is amazing.

Beetlejuice is playing at the Winter Garden Theater.  If you’re looking for a fun time, this is the show to see. 

Domenick Danza