I was 9 when Beetlejuice hit theaters. I’m sure a lot of the jokes went over my head at the time given my age, but there was something about that dark, twisted, wacky movie that I loved. So when I found out that they were creating a Beetlejuice musical I couldn’t wait to see it.
Thankfully I recently got the chance. My brother and I made the short trek to Nashville last week to watch it at TPAC. Thanks to him we had excellent seats and the play did not disappoint. I would definitely rank it as one of the best I’ve ever seen!
The musical wasn’t a scene by scene replay of the movie, but it didn’t have to be. It stands out on its own. The acting, in particular, was phenomenal, namely actors Isabella Esler and Justin Collette who play Lydia Deetz and Beetlejuice, respectively.
Remarkably, Esler is making her professional debut as part of the touring cast of Beetlejuice. She is barely out of high school and already seems like a seasoned performer with a magnetic stage presence and a powerhouse voice. We definitely haven’t heard the last from her!
Collette is dynamic as Beetlejuice. Of course he is no Michael Keaton, but I mean really who can actually fill those shoes? With his impeccable vocal range, Collette is perfect for Beetlejuice the musical; and he brought such an infectious energy to the stage that it was easy to forget he didn’t originate the role.
I’d actually really love to see this play again, but I’m also really excited about the upcoming Beetlejuice sequel coming in September!
Warner Brothers released the first pictures from the movie and a teaser trailer this week and I cannot wait to see more. I’m usually not a fan of messing with the classics, making sequels or remakes of beloved movies, but Michael Keaton back as “the ghost with the most”? What could be better than that?
If you haven’t seen the trailer yet, or just want to see it again (who could blame you?) I’ve posted it below.
Also, as a side note, it occurs to me that this movie is titled Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice. Could that mean that there is possibly a plan for a 3rd Beetlejuice movie called Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice??
BONUS!
Does anyone else remember the Beetlejuice cartoon that followed the original movie?