Beaches Broadway Musical Review: A Soggy Stage Adaptation Saved by Jessica Vosk
Garry Marshall's 1988 film Beaches is hardly a masterpiece of subtlety, yet its gauzy, heartfelt narrative effectively tugs at the heartstrings, chronicling decades of a friendship that unwittingly veers toward tragedy. With Bette Midler's star power and a soundtrack featuring classics like Wind Beneath My Wings, the movie seemed ripe for a Broadway transformation. However, the long-awaited stage adaptation, now playing at the Majestic Theatre in New York, falls short of expectations, despite a standout turn from Jessica Vosk.
A Troubled Journey to the Stage
The musical version of Beaches, based more closely on Iris Rainer Dart's novel than the film, has had a rocky path to Broadway. Conceived in 2014, it stalled out of town and required 12 years of revisions before reaching New York City. Despite this extensive effort, the show feels unprepared for primetime, with a score by 93-year-old music industry veteran Mike Stoller that fails to impress. His original songs, such as Show the World Who You Are and The Brand New Me, are samey and unmemorable, burdened by Dart's hyper-literal lyrics.
Notably, the stage show omits most songs from the film, save for Wind Beneath My Wings, a decision that disappoints fans. The absence of numbers like Oh Industry, a bizarre avant-garde piece from the movie, is particularly felt, replaced by bland muzak that lacks emotional resonance.
Jessica Vosk's Commanding Performance
Thankfully, Jessica Vosk, taking on the Bette Midler role of ambitious singer Cee Cee Bloom, injects much-needed energy into the production. With belt and guile, she keeps the show afloat, embodying the grand diva's spirit with cheering vigor. Samantha Schwartz also shines as the younger Cee Cee, adding humor with a springy red wig and feather boa. In contrast, Kelli Barrett, playing Bertie (Hillary in the film), is relegated to singing dull songs, merely filling time until Vosk returns to center stage.
The film's focus on Midler's character is intensified on stage, creating an imbalance that leaves other roles underdeveloped. Vosk's performance is a fitting tribute to Midler, showcasing how hard work can elevate maudlin material, but it highlights the show's shortcomings elsewhere.
Production Flaws and Emotional Shortfalls
Directors Lonny Price and Matt Cowart handle small stage business adeptly, aided by an amusing, joke-filled book by Dart and Thom Thomas. However, they struggle to build toward the story's emotional climax, as Cee Cee watches her friend succumb to illness. Tears may still flow at the end, but this likely stems from memories of the film or personal reflections, not the stage show's two-hour journey.
The set design by James Noone relies heavily on digital projection, rendering the sentimental saga cold and hard to the touch. With only two sad piles of fake sand on stage, there's little beachy atmosphere, perhaps to ease touring logistics. This minimalist approach undermines the warmth needed for such a weepie.
Final Verdict: A Missed Opportunity
In summary, the Broadway adaptation of Beaches is a soggy affair, saved primarily by Jessica Vosk's luminous performance. While it may appeal to legions of moms and their gay friends on a future tour, the show lacks the emotional depth and musical brilliance to stand as a legitimate stage production. Vosk's tribute to Bette Midler is commendable, but without stronger songs and a more heartfelt production, this musical remains a missed opportunity.
