The long-awaited Broadway transfer of Beetlejuice The Musical has finally arrived in the West End, bringing its chaotic energy to London audiences. Directed by Alex Timbers, this show is a spectacle with plenty to look at, even if it does not always hit the right emotional notes.
The look of the show is where it truly shines. Scenic designer David Korins creates a wonderfully twisted, cartoonish world that fits the story perfectly. Kenneth Posner matches this with vibrant, neon lighting that keeps the stage feeling completely alive. The special effects and illusions are also a huge highlight, providing plenty of surprising moments. However, the massive scale of the show creates a few awkward transitions. The curtain has to come down several times to allow for big set changes, leaving the actors to perform right in front of it. While the cast handles this well, it does slow down the pace of the evening.
Luckily, the show is packed with a wonderful cast. David Fynn takes on the main role of Beetlejuice with nonstop, frantic energy. He plays the character like a stand-up comedian, constantly breaking the fourth wall and shouting out modern memes. Hannah Nordberg gives a brilliant performance as Lydia Deetz, showing off great vocals and acting skills that help ground the madness. David Hunter and Chelsea Halfpenny are also incredibly sweet and adorable as the dead couple, Adam and Barbara Maitland.
Still, underneath the bright lights and great acting, the show has some clear weaknesses.
The story is quite silly and ultimately lacks heart.
Eddie Perfect’s songs are energetic, but they lack memorable melodies or any real emotional weight, meaning you probably will not be humming them on your way home. This hurts the deeper parts of the story. Lydia’s journey through grief is there, but Beetlejuice’s constant interruptions and loud comedy often push it to the side. The show rarely gives the touching moments enough room to breathe.
The comedy is also hit-and-miss. Fynn is very funny, but the script relies on quick jokes; some land perfectly, while others do not quite work.
Even so, if you want a fun night out with amazing sets, great effects, and excellent performances, this production is well worth a look. It might lack the soul of a classic musical, but it wins you over with pure spectacle.
It runs until 17 April. Tickets: here.
Photos: Johan Persson