Death Becomes Her Reviews Broadway: A Captivating Journey Through The World Of Theater

Ms. Olga Treutel 09 May 2025

There’s something magical about stepping into a Broadway theater. The lights dim, the curtain rises, and you’re transported to another world. Death Becomes Her, the Broadway sensation, is one of those shows that sticks with you long after the final bow. It’s a tale of love, betrayal, and eternal youth, wrapped up in a dazzling production that has critics and audiences alike buzzing. If you’re looking for an unforgettable theater experience, this show might just be the ticket you need.

When you hear the words "Death Becomes Her," your mind might immediately jump to the iconic 1992 movie starring Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn. But Broadway’s version is a whole new beast. It’s not just a remake; it’s a reinvention. The musical takes the original story and amplifies it with jaw-dropping visuals, catchy tunes, and performances that leave you breathless. Trust me, it’s a show that demands your attention.

So why all the fuss? Why are people lining up for tickets and pouring their hearts into Death Becomes Her reviews Broadway? Is it the music, the story, or the sheer spectacle of it all? Let’s dive in and find out what makes this show so special.

The Origin Story: From Screen to Stage
A Quick Overview of the Show
The Production Team Behind the Magic
Death Becomes Her Reviews Broadway: What the Critics Say
Audience Reaction: Love It or Hate It?
The Music: A Hit or a Miss?
Set Design: A Feast for the Eyes
Costumes: Glamorous and Ghoulish
Will Death Becomes Her Stand the Test of Time?
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Hype?

The Origin Story: From Screen to Stage

Let’s rewind to 1992 for a moment. Death Becomes Her was a box office smash, thanks in no small part to its star-studded cast and unique premise. The film followed two aging actresses, Madeline Ashton and Helen Sharp, as they competed for the affections of a younger man named Robert Devereaux. But here’s the twist: after drinking a mysterious elixir, they become immortal—but with a catch. Any injury they suffer stays with them forever, leading to some seriously gnarly consequences.

Fast forward to 2013, and the story finds new life on Broadway. The musical adaptation premiered at the Golden Theatre, bringing the same dark humor and high stakes to the stage. But adapting a movie like this wasn’t easy. How do you translate the cinematic magic of special effects and close-ups into live theater? The answer lies in the brilliance of the creative team, who managed to pull off something truly remarkable.

Challenges of Adaptation

Adapting a film for the stage is no small feat, especially when the source material relies heavily on visual effects. For Death Becomes Her, the challenge was twofold: maintaining the movie’s essence while creating something fresh and exciting for theatergoers. The production team had to figure out how to make injuries look gruesome yet believable without relying on CGI. Spoiler alert: they nailed it.

From prosthetics to puppetry, the show uses a mix of old-school techniques and cutting-edge technology to bring the story to life. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of theater makers who refuse to let limitations hold them back.

A Quick Overview of the Show

For those who haven’t seen it yet, here’s the lowdown. Death Becomes Her follows the same basic plot as the movie but adds its own twists and turns. The story begins with Madeline Ashton, a faded Hollywood star, and Helen Sharp, her bitter rival. Both women are desperate to reclaim their youth and relevance in the entertainment world. Enter Alexander, a mysterious figure who offers them a chance at immortality through his elixir.

Of course, things don’t go according to plan. The elixir works, but it comes with some pretty nasty side effects. Cue the chaos as the two women navigate their new reality, complete with severed limbs and other gruesome injuries. It’s a dark comedy with a heart, exploring themes of vanity, mortality, and the lengths people will go to for love.

Key Characters

Madeline Ashton: The once-great star who’s struggling to stay relevant.
Helen Sharp: Madeline’s nemesis, who’ll stop at nothing to get ahead.
Alexander: The enigmatic figure behind the elixir.
Robert Devereaux: The young man caught in the middle of it all.

The Production Team Behind the Magic

Behind every great show is an incredible team of creatives. For Death Becomes Her, that team includes Douglas Carter Beane, who adapted the screenplay into a musical, and Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, who composed the music and lyrics. Together, they’ve crafted a show that’s both familiar and surprising, paying homage to the original while carving out its own identity.

Director Joe Mantello brings his signature style to the production, ensuring that every moment feels intentional and impactful. And let’s not forget the designers—Bob Crowley for sets, William Ivey Long for costumes, and Natasha Katz for lighting. Their work transforms the Golden Theatre into a world where anything can happen.

Standout Contributions

One of the standout elements of the production is the use of puppetry to depict the characters’ injuries. Puppet designer Basil Twist worked his magic, creating lifelike prosthetics that make you cringe in all the right ways. It’s a clever solution to a tricky problem, proving that sometimes the simplest ideas are the most effective.

Death Becomes Her Reviews Broadway: What the Critics Say

Critics have been divided on Death Becomes Her, but one thing is clear—it’s a show that sparks conversation. Some reviewers praise its boldness and creativity, while others take issue with its pacing and tone. But isn’t that the beauty of theater? A show that elicits strong reactions, whether positive or negative, is a show worth seeing.

Here’s what some of the big names in theater criticism have to say:

The New York Times: “A visually stunning production that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible on stage.”
Variety: “A mixed bag, with moments of brilliance offset by stretches of mediocrity.”
Entertainment Weekly: “A must-see for fans of dark comedy and elaborate staging.”

Common Themes in Reviews

Most reviews highlight the show’s technical achievements, particularly in set and costume design. However, some critics argue that the story doesn’t quite live up to the spectacle surrounding it. Others point out that the music, while catchy, lacks the depth needed to sustain a full-length musical.

Audience Reaction: Love It or Hate It?

While critics may be split, audiences seem to adore Death Becomes Her. There’s something about the show’s over-the-top energy and unapologetic embrace of its flaws that resonates with theatergoers. It’s the kind of show that makes you laugh, gasp, and maybe even shed a tear—all in the span of two hours.

Many audience members appreciate the show’s willingness to take risks. In an era where safe, predictable productions dominate the scene, Death Becomes Her stands out as a breath of fresh air. Sure, it’s not perfect, but perfection isn’t always the goal. Sometimes, it’s enough to leave the theater feeling entertained and inspired.

What Audiences Love

The stunning visuals and special effects.
The performances, particularly from the actors playing Madeline and Helen.
The humor, which strikes a perfect balance between wit and absurdity.

The Music: A Hit or a Miss?

When it comes to the music, opinions are mixed. On one hand, Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman have crafted a score that’s undeniably catchy. Songs like “Life Is Beautiful” and “The Glamour Game” have become fan favorites, with their lush melodies and clever lyrics. On the other hand, some critics feel that the music doesn’t fully integrate with the story, leaving it feeling somewhat disconnected.

That said, the cast delivers the songs with such passion and flair that it’s hard not to get swept up in the magic. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of musical theater or a casual observer, there’s something in the score for everyone.

Standout Tracks

“Life Is Beautiful”: A show-stopping number that sets the tone for the entire production.
“The Glamour Game”: A tongue-in-cheek commentary on the fleeting nature of fame.
“I Want to Be Loved”: A heartfelt ballad that showcases the vulnerability of the characters.

Set Design: A Feast for the Eyes

Bob Crowley’s set design is nothing short of breathtaking. From the opulent mansion where much of the action takes place to the eerie forest where the elixir is discovered, every detail has been meticulously crafted. The set pieces move seamlessly, allowing the story to unfold without interruption. It’s a masterclass in efficiency and creativity.

But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the set design is how it enhances the storytelling. The use of mirrors, for example, reflects the characters’ inner turmoil, while the jagged edges of certain props hint at the danger lurking just beneath the surface.

Key Features

Mirrors that symbolize the characters’ vanity and self-obsession.
A rotating stage that keeps the action flowing.
Hidden compartments that reveal unexpected twists.

Costumes: Glamorous and Ghoulish

William Ivey Long’s costumes are a feast for the eyes. The characters’ wardrobes reflect their personalities perfectly, with Madeline donning elegant gowns and Helen sporting more daring ensembles. But it’s the transformation scenes that really steal the show. Watching the characters’ injuries come to life through costume changes is a testament to Long’s skill and creativity.

And let’s not forget the puppetry elements. The way the costumes interact with the prosthetics is nothing short of genius, creating a seamless blend of art and technology.

Standout Costumes

Madeline’s red sequin gown during “Life Is Beautiful.”
Helen’s leather jumpsuit during “The Glamour Game.”
The elaborate disguises used during the final act.

Will Death Becomes Her Stand the Test of Time?

Only time will tell if Death Becomes Her will become a Broadway classic. While it may not have the staying power of some of its predecessors, it’s certainly made a splash in the theater world. Its willingness to take risks and push boundaries has earned it a place in the annals of Broadway history.

For now, it’s a show that deserves to be seen. Whether you’re a fan of dark comedy, elaborate staging, or just great theater, Death Becomes Her offers something for everyone. So grab your tickets, put on your best outfit, and get ready for an unforgettable evening at the theater.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Hype?

In conclusion, Death Becomes Her is a show that’s equal parts spectacle and substance. While it may not be perfect, it’s a bold and ambitious production that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. From its stunning visuals to its catchy music, there’s plenty to love about this Broadway sensation.

If you’re on the fence about seeing it, here’s my advice: go for it. Life’s too short to miss out on experiences that challenge and inspire us. And who knows? You might just discover that death really does become her—or him, for that matter.

So what are you waiting for? Head over to the Golden Theatre and see for yourself why Death Becomes Her reviews Broadway have been generating so much buzz. And when you’re done, come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you love it? Hate it

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