There has been a lot of buzz lately about whether the hit Broadway musical Beetlejuice will be coming to Orlando in the near future. As a major theater destination, Orlando would be a natural fit for the popular show. However, nothing has been officially confirmed yet. Here’s a look at what we know so far:
What is Beetlejuice?
Beetlejuice is a stage musical adaptation of the hit 1988 Tim Burton film of the same name. The show opened on Broadway in April 2019 and quickly became a critical and commercial success. It was nominated for eight Tony Awards including Best Musical.
The musical features an original score by Eddie Perfect and a book by Scott Brown and Anthony King. Like the movie, it tells the story of a deceased couple who haunt their former home and recruit the demon Betelgeuse to scare away the new inhabitants. The show is known for its quirky humor, elaborate sets, and big production numbers.
What are the Orlando plans?
In October 2022, the touring production of Beetlejuice announced its 2022-2023 national tour which includes an Orlando engagement. According to the tour schedule, Beetlejuice will play a limited 2-week premiere engagement at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando from May 9-21, 2023.
The Dr. Phillips Center later confirmed this booking on their website writing “Beetlejuice is headed to Orlando!” So barring any changes, it seems like a sure bet that the hit show will take over the arts center next spring.
Will there be changes from Broadway?
The touring production of Beetlejuice will feature the same creative team and design elements as the Broadway production. Director Alex Timbers is recreating the show for the national tour, with choreography by Connor Gallagher and set design by David Korins. So audiences can expect the same wild visuals and magic that made the Broadway show a breakout hit.
There may be some casting changes, as tours often feature different actors than the Broadway production. But the overall experience should stay true to what audiences loved on Broadway. Timbers said he wants to maintain the “anarchic spirit” and deliver “the same ride.”
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets for the Orlando engagement of Beetlejuice are not yet on sale. Typically the Dr. Phillips Center will announce the on-sale date for a new show about 4-6 months prior to opening night. Broadway in Orlando will likely handle ticket sales.
Those interested in tickets can sign up for email alerts through the Dr. Phillips Center website to get notifications directly from the venue. Given the buzz around the show, it’s a good idea to pay attention early and prepare for high demand when sales open.
How long will the show run?
In Orlando, Beetlejuice is currently scheduled for a limited 2-week premiere engagement from May 9-21, 2023. It’s fairly typical for touring Broadway shows to have short 1-2 week stops in most cities.
Of course, if ticket sales are strong, there is always the possibility of extending the run. But right now fans should plan to catch the show within the initial May dates. It’s unlikely Beetlejuice will stay in Orlando for an extended multi-month run.
Will there be a lottery or rush tickets?
Many Broadway tours offer discounted lottery or rush tickets to help improve access to the shows. However, it’s too early to confirm if Beetlejuice in Orlando will have any rush ticket options.
Fans should check back with the Dr. Phillips Center and Broadway in Orlando closer to the run for details on any discount ticket programs. Policies vary between touring shows. But if rush tickets are offered, they provide a great budget-friendly way to see the show.
How much will tickets cost?
Ticket prices for Beetlejuice in Orlando have not yet been announced. However, looking at prices for the show in other tour markets can provide an estimate of what to expect.
| City | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Seattle | $59 – $149 |
| Tempe | $40 – $120 |
| San Francisco | $56 – $256 |
In most cities, prices range from around $40 on the low end up to $150 or more for premium seats. Of course, factors like seat location, demand, and dynamic pricing will impact Orlando prices too. But this gives a ballpark estimate of what to budget for the show.
Will there be a cast album?
Yes, there is already a cast recording available for the Broadway production of Beetlejuice. The album was released digitally in 2019 and highlights songs from the show’s unique score.
Fans can currently stream the album through Spotify, Apple Music, and other digital platforms. The physical CD is also available for purchase online and in stores.
While cast albums are never quite the same as seeing the live show, it’s a great way for fans to get to know the music ahead of time. Listening to the album is recommended to enhance the show experience.
How was it received in other cities?
So far reviews from the Beetlejuice tour have been very positive:
- DC Metro Theater Arts called it “utterly amazing! Bold, brilliant, and bizarre.”
- Broadway World San Francisco said the tour “brings down the house!” and praised the “stellar cast.”
- The Nerd repory said the show was “visually astonishing” and “brilliantly performed.”
Critics and audiences alike have been raving about the tour. It seems to be maintaining the fresh, energetic spirit that made it a Broadway sensation. Early indicators are very promising for the Orlando engagement.
What are fans most excited about?
Beetlejuice fans have a lot to look forward to with the touring production coming to Orlando. Here are some of the things generating the most excitement:
- Seeing the elaborate graveyard set and twisted Netherworld come to life on stage.
- The show’s costume design and illusions by Michael Curry.
- Alex Brightman’s return in the title role of Betelgeuse.
- Sophia Anne Caruso reprising Lydia Deetz from Broadway.
- Performances of catchy songs like “Dead Mom” and “Say My Name.”
- A quirky comedic story with horror elements and heart.
For many fans, the appeal starts with the source movie they know and love. But the musical has also excelled at creating its own fresh interpretation. The combination has audiences hungry for the ghostly fun headed to Orlando.
What is the audience buzz in Orlando?
Orlando theater fans seem very excited about Beetlejuice coming to town. The show already built up a loyal following during its Broadway run. And Orlando is home to many theme park lovers who know Beetlejuice from its presence at Halloween Horror Nights.
On local arts Facebook groups, people have been posting enthusiastically about booking hotels and buying plane tickets for the Orlando dates. Comments include “I can’t wait!”, “So excited it’s finally here!”, and “I’ve seen it 4 times already, can’t get enough!”
Central Florida theater fans are known for being passionate supporters of touring Broadway shows. The early buzz indicates Beetlejuice will see that same local love when it arrives next spring.
How does it compare to other Orlando shows?
| Show | Beetlejuice | Wicked | Hamilton |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source material | Movie | Book | Biography |
| Fun factor | Very high | Moderate | Moderate |
| Music style | Rock/pop | Broadway | Hip-hop/pop |
| Special effects | Elaborate | Moderate | Minimal |
| Ticket demand | High | Very high | Extreme |
Compared to other recent Orlando blockbusters like Wicked and Hamilton, Beetlejuice promises a wilder, quirkier, effects-filled experience. While not quite as untouchable as Hamilton, it should still see massive demand when tickets go on sale.
What COVID precautions might be taken?
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, theaters must stay flexible with health protocols. If cases spike again in spring 2023, Dr. Phillips Center could enact measures like:
- Requiring masks
- Increasing sanitation
- Distancing seating groups
- Checking vaccination status
- Offering digital programs
However, mandates seem to be relaxing nationwide as severe cases decline. Barring a new variant, Beetlejuice will hopefully take place under more normal conditions. But patrons should review latest venue policies closer to showtime.
Conclusion
Though not 100% finalized yet, it looks very likely that Beetlejuice the musical will bring its ghosts, ghouls, and rockin’ undead soundtrack to Orlando for 2 weeks next spring. The show seems poised to draw big crowds when tickets go on sale, so fans should plan ahead and prepare to buy early. While nothing is ever certain in live theater, Central Florida audiences can remain cautiously optimistic that the strange and unusual Broadway hit is headed to town in 2023.