Brisbane, consider yourself warned. Beetlejuice The Musical is back — and this time it’s bringing Broadway with it.
The Tony Award-nominated hit returns to QPAC’s Lyric Theatre from 7 June for a strictly limited six-week season, with tickets for all performances now on sale via QPAC.
Headlining the Brisbane and Perth seasons is Andy Karl, one of Broadway’s most versatile leading men. Karl is best known for originating the role of Phil Connors in Groundhog Day and earning a Tony nomination for his effort. He has also starred in Rocky the Musical, Pretty Woman the Musical, Legally Blonde the Musical, and Moulin Rouge — a résumé that speaks for itself.
Joining him as Barbara Maitland is Jenni Little, stepping in as original cast member Elise McCann takes parental leave. A graduate of the Victorian College of Arts, Little has built an impressive body of work across Titanique, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, Jagged Little Pill, Falsettos, School of Rock, and Kinky Boots. She is, by any measure, an inspired choice.
“Joining Beetlejuice The Musical for Brisbane is an absolute dream. The show is hilarious, and unexpectedly moving, and I know Brisbane will embrace the production. I also just LOVE Brisbane and can’t wait to be back in the beautiful Lyric Theatre at QPAC.” — Jenni Little
Reprising their roles from the Melbourne and international seasons are Karis Oka as Lydia Deetz, Rob Johnson as Adam Maitland, Erin Clare as Delia Deetz, and Tom Wren as Charles Deetz. Brisbane’s own Angelique Cassimatis returns as the beloved Miss Argentina.
For those coming to the story fresh: Beetlejuice The Musical follows Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager with a particular obsession with the dead. Her new house is haunted by a recently deceased couple and one thoroughly degenerate demon with a thing for stripes. When Lydia summons said demon to deal with her insufferable parents, chaos — spectral, comedic, and surprisingly heartfelt — ensues.
The production is directed by two-time Tony Award winner Alex Timbers (Moulin Rouge!, Just in Time), with an original score by Tony Award nominee Eddie Perfect — the Australian composer who won four Green Room Awards for this very show, including Outstanding Production and Outstanding New Australian Writing.
The Urbanite will be on the ground for opening night. Watch this space.
Beetlejuice The Musical plays QPAC’s Lyric Theatre from 7 June. Tickets via QPAC.
All images: Beetlejuice The Musical — Australian Production. Photo by Eugene Hyland.
