New Musical "Starstruck" Explores Love and Ambition

The new musical "Starstruck," which premiered at Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, Pennsylvania, is a modern adaptation of the classic play "Cyrano de Bergerac." The production features a narrative centered around love and ambition, particularly within the context of female relationships. The story follows Cyd DeBerg, a park ranger and astronomer portrayed by Tony Award nominee Mary Ann Malone, who finds herself falling for a podcaster named Roxanne, played by Krysta Rodriguez. However, Cyd steps aside to assist a colleague in winning Roxanne's affection, adding layers of complexity to the plot.

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"Starstruck" is a collaborative effort involving notable figures from the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to Malone, the production includes Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls, who has a long-standing friendship with Malone and is also involved in the musical. The producing team features prominent personalities such as Glennon Doyle, a best-selling memoirist, her wife Abby Wambach, a former soccer player, and comedian Tig Notaro. Their involvement signals a strong representation of women and LGBTQ+ themes within the arts.

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The musical not only explores romantic relationships but also addresses broader themes such as ambition and community challenges. Cyd's aspiration to establish the first International Dark Sky Reserve in the United States faces local opposition, reflecting real-world issues of environmental conservation and community dynamics. The intertwining of personal and professional struggles adds depth to the characters' journeys.

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While the musical has garnered attention for its representation and storytelling, some critics may question the portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships in mainstream theater. The reliance on familiar tropes from classic literature, such as unrequited love and self-sacrifice, could be seen as limiting the narrative's originality. However, the production's unique context and character development may counter these critiques.

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The creators of "Starstruck" have expressed their excitement about bringing a contemporary story to the stage that resonates with current audiences. Malone noted the significance of the musical in reflecting the experiences of women in love, stating, “This production is about finding your voice and the courage to pursue what you want.”

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Following its premiere, "Starstruck" is set to run through March 21, 2026. The production aims to engage audiences with its heartfelt narrative and representation of diverse relationships, potentially paving the way for future works that explore similar themes in innovative ways.

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• “Here come these two women in their cowboy boots and their ripped jeans and their bi-level haircuts,” — Emily Saliers, Indigo Girls

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