Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre – "Death Becomes Her" (Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, Broadway) ★★★★★ REVIEW
Introduction
In this episode released on March 7, 2025, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre delves into his in-depth review of the Broadway musical adaptation of the cult classic film Death Becomes Her. With his extensive experience as a professional theatre critic and over 60,000 YouTube subscribers, Mickey-Jo provides a comprehensive analysis that covers every facet of the production, from performances and songwriting to creative direction and queer representation.
Personal Experience and Viewing Strategy
Mickey-Jo begins by sharing his personal journey in experiencing Death Becomes Her. He attended two performances—one during late previews in November and another in January featuring understudies Kayleigh Cronin and Natalie Charles Ellis. He emphasizes the importance of ‘seeing something twice’, allowing him to first experience the show without prior knowledge and then return with an understanding of the source material and its nuances.
Notable Quote:
“I actually think seeing something twice is the best way to see something, to truly see a piece of theatrical work and then to be able to review it.” [00:00]
Overview of the Musical
Death Becomes Her transforms the 1992 film into a vibrant musical comedy, starring Broadway veterans Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, and Christopher Zieber, alongside Michelle Williams. The musical maintains the film’s satirical edge, targeting the obsession with youth and beauty in Hollywood but amplifies the humor and camp elements to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Mickey-Jo provides a spoiler-free plot summary, highlighting the central characters Madeline Ashton and Helen, whose rivalry escalates through magic-induced immortality and vanity. The storyline is enriched with magical elements and heightened stakes, blending horror with comedy seamlessly.
Notable Quote:
“The magical potion... has serious consequences, to which perhaps a little more attention ought to be paid by Helen and Madeleine.” [00:03]
Queer Representation
A significant focus of Mickey-Jo's review is the musical's embrace of queer culture. Death Becomes Her pays homage to its status as a beloved queer classic through various subtle and overt nods. From the protagonist Madeline’s medley “For the Gays” to the inclusion of non-binary performers and gender-neutral costuming, the production celebrates diversity and inclusivity.
Notable Quote:
“Everyone's just doing this sexy dancing in these great outfits. And it's no longer gendered so much of it, which I think is really cool.” [00:15]
Material and Score
Mickey-Jo evaluates the musical’s book written by Marco Pernet, praising its witty and sassy dialogue reminiscent of Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty. The score, composed by Julia Mattison and Noel Carey, is compared favorably to successful Broadway comedies like Beetlejuice and The Addams Family. While not all songs are individually standout hits, Mickey-Jo highlights key numbers such as “For the Gays” and “Tell Me Ernest” for their clever lyrics and memorable melodies.
Notable Quote:
“For a musical comedy, the lyrics are always going to be more important. It matters more that I'm laughing.” [00:08]
Creative Team
The episode delves into the brilliance of the creative team behind the production:
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Director and Choreographer Christopher Catelli: Known for his work on Newsies and Schmigadoon, Catelli brings a masterful blend of dance comedy and stunning visuals. The set design by Derek McLane, lighting by Justin Townsend, and sound design by Peter Hylensky are all praised for their sophistication and creativity.
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Illusion Designer Tim Clothier: Instrumental in creating the magical effects that enhance the storytelling, Clothier’s work ensures illusions are both convincing and humorously staged.
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Costume Designer Paul Tazewell: The highlight of the creative team, Tazewell’s award-winning costumes are lauded for their wit, glamour, and thematic relevance. From Madeline’s shifting necklines to the ensemble’s gender-neutral attire, the costumes significantly contribute to the show’s aesthetic appeal.
Notable Quote:
“There is such a wit to [the costumes] as well as being hugely glamorous and stunning.” [00:25]
Performances
Mickey-Jo offers a detailed critique of the cast’s performances:
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Megan Hilty as Madeline Ashton: Celebrated as one of Hilty’s best Broadway roles, Mickey-Jo praises her ability to embody the diva persona with both humor and pathos. Her comedic timing and vocal prowess elevate the character’s journey from confident starlet to desperate individual grappling with aging.
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Jennifer Simard as Helen: Recognized for her nuanced portrayal, Simard brings depth to Helen, balancing comedic elements with moments of vulnerability. Her high belts and dynamic performance offer a fresh take on the character.
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Christopher Zieber as Ernest: Zieber’s straight-man role provides a solid foundation for the leading ladies’ antics. His ability to infuse eccentricities into Ernest’s character adds an extra layer of humor to the production.
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Michelle Williams as Viola Van Horne: Initially perceived as reserved, Williams finds her comedic footing as the show progresses. Her powerful vocals and engaging stage presence make Viola a compelling figure within the narrative.
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Josh Layman as Stefan Farm: A standout in the ensemble, Layman’s portrayal of Madeline’s assistant is highlighted as a comedic gem, bringing originality and laughter to every scene he inhabits.
Notable Quote:
“Every single sentence, every single word that comes out of that man's mouth on this stage is goldust.” [00:40]
Staging and Direction
The direction by Christopher Catelli is praised for its seamless integration of lush, classic Broadway aesthetics with contemporary humor and energy. The set is described as both gorgeous and functional, allowing for swift scenic transitions and maintaining a lively pace throughout the show. The use of stunt doubles and visual gags, such as dancer swaps and slick illusions, contributes to the production’s dynamic and entertaining nature.
Notable Quote:
“The way that [the set] frames the stage is consistently gorgeous, but also clever. It allows for a brilliant pace in these scenic transitions.” [00:30]
Conclusion
Mickey-Jo enthusiastically endorses Death Becomes Her as a must-see Broadway production, especially for its celebration of queer culture and its blend of camp, comedy, and classic theatre elements. He commends the cast’s performances, the creative team’s ingenuity, and the overall vitality of the show, asserting that it surpasses the original film in energy and humor.
Notable Quote:
“Death Becomes Her on Broadway. I think it is not only a terrific show for the gays, but a hilarious musical comedy for anyone in the market. Go and check this out.” [00:50]
Final Thoughts
Mickey-Jo concludes by encouraging listeners to share their own experiences and thoughts on the musical, reinforcing his role as a vibrant voice in theatre criticism. He reiterates his passion for theatre and invites his audience to stay connected through his YouTube channel and podcast platforms.
Notable Quote:
“Have yourselves a glorious time and if you've already checked it out on Broadway, let us all know what you thought of it in the comments section down below.” [00:55]
Key Takeaways
- Death Becomes Her successfully adapts the 1992 film into a lively, campy musical comedy that resonates with modern audiences.
- The show excels in queer representation, incorporating subtle and overt elements that celebrate diversity.
- Strong performances from Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, Christopher Zieber, Michelle Williams, and Josh Layman elevate the production.
- The creative team, particularly costume designer Paul Tazewell, delivers exceptional work that enhances the musical’s aesthetic.
- Mickey-Jo highly recommends the musical for its humor, vitality, and homage to the queer community.
For more reviews and theatre insights, subscribe to MickeyJoTheatre on YouTube and follow on podcast platforms to stay updated with his latest critiques and Broadway vlogs.