All Of It: Episode Summary – "Tony Nom Favorite: 'Death Becomes Her'"

Release Date: April 15, 2025
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Megan Hilty
Podcast: All Of It by WNYC

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart, the spotlight shines on the Broadway adaptation of the cult classic film "Death Becomes Her." The episode delves into the creative transformation of the 1992 surrealist satire into a vibrant musical, exploring themes of beauty, aging, and the lengths one might go to preserve youth.

Death Becomes Her: From Screen to Stage

"Death Becomes Her" originally starred Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn, Bruce Willis, and Isabella Rossellini. The Broadway adaptation retains its campy essence, bringing the story to life with an added musical flair. The narrative follows Madeleine Ashford, portrayed by Megan Hilty, a 40-something actress desperate to maintain her youth and beauty. After exhausting options like plastic surgeons and dietitians, Madeleine resorts to a mystical potion promising eternal youth.

Notable Performance: "For the Gays" (Performed by Megan Hilty) [01:55 - 03:19]

Megan Hilty:
Why is a girl like me sitting here in this chair combing her hair
and painting her face in the chase to stay young and beautiful?...

This song encapsulates Madeleine's internal struggle and societal pressures to remain perpetually youthful.

In-Depth Conversation with Megan Hilty

Exploring Contemporary Themes Alison Stewart opens the discussion by addressing the recurring cultural conversations surrounding women's bodies and aging. Megan Hilty responds by contextualizing the show's relevance, comparing it to classics like "Sunset Boulevard" and "Gypsy," which also grapple with themes of fading stardom and the fear of obsolescence.

Megan Hilty [04:03 - 05:21]:

"I think it is, unfortunately, it's very, very topical. But what I love is that it provides... all of these amazing women taking the stage... tackling that very topical issue of fearing losing relevancy after 40."

Adapting a Beloved Film Hilty shares her passion for the original film, stating it as her favorite candidate for a Broadway musical due to its over-the-top, campy nature which naturally lends itself to musical expression.

Megan Hilty [05:23 - 05:47]:

"The biggest reason is that it is so over the top and campy that of course, we break out into song."

Character Development: Madeline Ashford Hilty discusses how Madeleine starts in her career's prime but faces turmoil when her frenemy, Helen, re-enters her life. She elaborates on her character’s dual vocal tones—one reflecting confidence and glamour, and the other showing vulnerability and defeat.

Megan Hilty [07:15 - 08:16]:

"I wanted her to have two very distinctive sounds... when she's at her low point and not feeling herself."

Crafting the Perfect Voice Drawing inspiration from iconic characters like Valerie Cherish from "The Comeback," Lucille Bluth from "Arrested Development," and Miss Piggy, Hilty crafts a unique voice for Madeleine that balances humor and depth.

Megan Hilty [06:38 - 07:10]:

"I draw on three pre-existing characters... Madeline draws on those three fabulous women with a little bit of myself sprinkled in there."

Dynamic Relationship with Co-star Jennifer Simard The relationship between Madeleine and Helen is central to the show's tension. Hilty describes their interplay as a blend of competition and underlying admiration, fostering a comedic yet genuine dynamic.

Megan Hilty [10:06 - 10:58]:

"These two women and their constant need to one up each other... there's something about the other person that they love and admire so much..."

Live Performance Challenges and Special Effects Adapting the film's special effects for the stage posed unique challenges. Hilty praises the creative team's ability to translate iconic moments like Madeleine's neck twist and the dramatic stair fall into live performances without compromising safety or camp aesthetics.

Megan Hilty [16:59 - 18:31]:

"We're big and we are broad, and we're doing silly in the smartest way... the fall down the stairs is iconic."

The Art of Comedy in Theater Addressing the complexity of comedic performance, Hilty emphasizes that comedy requires as much precision and effort as drama, often appearing effortless to the audience.

Megan Hilty [21:55 - 23:23]:

"Comedy is way harder than the dramatic stuff... it has to stay fresh in eight shows a week."

Costuming as a Storytelling Tool The elaborate costumes, designed by Paul Tazewell, play a crucial role in depicting Madeleine’s transformation. Hilty explains how her character's attire shifts from glamorous sequins to more subdued hues, reflecting her internal state.

Megan Hilty [23:33 - 24:36]:

"It's so much of Madeline... it tells you exactly where she is in her life... Paul Tazewell... showing these characters through what they're wearing."

Engaging the Audience: Behind the Scenes and Interactive Moments

Interplay with Audience During Performances Hilty highlights the importance of audience interaction and the unpredictability of live theater, where each performance can differ, keeping the experience fresh for both actors and viewers.

Megan Hilty [09:08 - 09:41]:

"People are coming back and over and over again and dressing up as Madeline and Helen... there's another joke... that's the magic of live theater."

Commitment to Character and Role Hilty shares anecdotes about the dedication required to embody Madeleine, including humorous improvisations and character-driven jokes that enhance the show's charm.

Megan Hilty [24:40 - 25:50]:

"I add that every night... sometimes it's Skittles Taste the Rainbow or Charmin Enjoy the Go... It's anything I want to do."

Dead Outlaw: A Brief Spotlight

Towards the episode's conclusion, Alison Stewart introduces another Broadway addition, "Dead Outlaw," a musical telling the true story of Elmer McCurdy. The show features a live rock band and unique storytelling techniques, now running at the Longegar Theater until July.

Preview of "Dead Outlaw" Song: "Dead" [27:20 - 30:18]

WNYC Studios:
You're born with nothing, your cheeks are apple dumplings...

Jennifer Simard:
Them as well.

This segment includes a performance snippet, highlighting the musical's gritty narrative and dynamic presentation.

Conclusion

Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by celebrating the vibrant cultural tapestry of Broadway, spotlighting "Death Becomes Her" and the emerging success of "Dead Outlaw." Listeners are encouraged to experience these productions firsthand, embracing the diverse and dynamic world of New York City's theatrical offerings.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Megan Hilty [04:03]:
  "If you look at what's happening on Broadway this season, it's all women 40 and above... tackling that very topical issue of fearing losing relevancy after 40."

• Megan Hilty [05:23]:
  "It's so over the top and campy that of course, we break out into song."

• Megan Hilty [10:57]:
  "There's something about the other character that they wish that they had, which is why they feel like they need to dominate the other one constantly."

• Megan Hilty [21:55]:
  "Comedy is way harder than the dramatic stuff... it has to stay fresh in eight shows a week."

• Megan Hilty [23:57]:
  "It's so much of Madeline... it tells you exactly where she is in her life."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, offering insights into the Broadway musical "Death Becomes Her," Megan Hilty's portrayal of Madeline Ashton, and the broader cultural conversations surrounding the production. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or simply curious about the arts, this episode provides a rich exploration of contemporary Broadway's creative processes and thematic depth.