The Fox Theatre in Atlanta was bursting at the seams as fans of the quirky and dark "Beetlejuice" swarmed to catch the opening night of its musical adaptation. The show, part of the Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta season, promised a departure from Tim Burton's 1988 classic film, and it delivered. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the production swings wildly between humor and heart, while turning the focus firmly onto its titular character.
"Beetlejuice The Musical" took the stage through March 24, offering audiences a peek into death's doorway. The story followed Lydia Deetz, a grief-stricken teenager, grappling with the loss of her mother and inadvertently joining forces with Beetlejuice, the mischievous and lonely ghost. The show intended to quickly have audiences forget the original movie's narrative, embracing a new take with energetic spectacle. According to Midtown ATL, the edgy and irreverent comedy promised "screamingly good fun" with a surprisingly touching undercurrent about family and love.
Justin Collette's performance as Beetlejuice garnered praise, with FOX 5 Atlanta noting his "gravelly-voiced" portrayal was a standout. The role of Lydia was played by Jackera Davis, who stepped in for Isabella Esler, and was lauded for her confidence. The cast was rounded out with seasoned Broadway performers such as Megan McGinnis and Will Burton as the endearing deceased couple, Barbara and Adam Maitland.
The show wasn't without its risque elements, as fans were quick to note numerous lewd jokes and double entendres. Collette executed these with the same gusto that Beetlejuice is known for. In an unexpected plot twist, the musical required Lydia to contemplate a strange proposal from Beetlejuice, which, according to FOX 5 Atlanta, was repeatedly compared to "getting a green card" for him – meant to signify his return to the land of the living.
Despite a few moments that might have made audiences squirm, like the ill-received political jokes and an extended lap dance scene, the show has been a hit. The elaborate set and costume designs, under the direction of Tony Award winners and nominees, created an immersive environment, replete with Beetlejuice cheerleaders and sandworms, that wowed theatergoers. Tickets, starting at $31, were available through the Fox Theatre box office and various online portals, catering to both diehard fans and those getting their first taste of the show's raucous humor.
