Beaches Musical Debuts on Broadway Amid Mixed Reviews

The musical adaptation of the 1988 film *Beaches*, titled *Beaches, A New Musical*, premiered at the Majestic Theatre on Broadway. Directed by Lonny Price and Matt Cowart, the show features a book co-written by Iris Rainer Dart, who authored the original novel, and Thom Thomas. The score is composed by Mike Stoller, with lyrics by Dart. The production runs for 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission.

Deadline Hollywood

Despite the anticipation surrounding its debut, early reviews indicate that *Beaches* may not resonate with audiences as intended. Critics have noted that the adaptation struggles to capture the emotional depth and complexity of female friendship that characterized the original film. The narrative follows the lifelong friendship between CeeCee and Bertie, beginning on an Atlantic City beach and navigating various life challenges, ultimately culminating in a poignant separation due to terminal illness.

Broadway’s ‘Beaches’ Review: ’80s Tearjerker Fizzles As Stage Musical

The musical features Jessica Vosk as CeeCee, who embodies a flamboyant personality reminiscent of Bette Midler’s original character. Kelli Barrett portrays Bertie, presenting a more reserved contrast to CeeCee’s exuberance. Samantha Schwartz plays childhood CeeCee, showcasing a bold performance. The supporting cast includes Ben Jacoby, Brent Thiessen, and Zurin Villanueva in various roles, with Villanueva’s portrayal of a hospice caretaker noted for its natural ease.

Broadway’s ‘Beaches’ Review: ’80s Tearjerker Fizzles As Stage MusicalDeadline Hollywood

Critics have expressed disappointment with the musical's execution, describing it as cluttered with cartoonish characters and lacking memorable musical numbers. The score, while featuring the iconic "Wind Beneath My Wings," is viewed as failing to contribute significantly to the legacy of its composer, Mike Stoller. The production has been characterized as an "oldies act" that leans heavily on nostalgia for the original film rather than establishing its own identity.

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While specific official statements from the production team have not been highlighted in reviews, the general sentiment reflects a struggle to meet audience expectations. Critics suggest that the adaptation may require strong word-of-mouth to succeed, as it currently lacks the emotional resonance that fans of the original film might seek.

Broadway’s ‘Beaches’ Review: ’80s Tearjerker Fizzles As Stage Musical

As *Beaches* continues its run on Broadway, it faces the challenge of building a positive reception among theatergoers. The production's future may depend on its ability to engage audiences beyond the nostalgia factor and deliver a compelling theatrical experience.

Broadway’s ‘Beaches’ Review: ’80s Tearjerker Fizzles As Stage Musical

• “The new Beaches is most charitably viewed as an oldies act for a movie.” — Deadline Review

Deadline Hollywood

• “Musical Score and Reception Despite the involvement of Mike Stoller, critics have noted that the score lacks memorable tunes.” — Deadline Review

Broadway’s ‘Beaches’ Review: ’80s Tearjerker Fizzles As Stage Musical

• “Audiences may find themselves yearning for the original’s depth, while this new version struggles to carve out its own identity amidst a wave of ’80s nostalgia.” — El Balad Review

Broadway’s ‘Beaches’ Review: ’80s Tearjerker Fizzles As Stage Musical