Kristin Chenoweth’s Broadway Return Falters in ‘Queen of Versailles’ Musical
The Broadway musical “The Queen of Versailles,” featuring Kristin Chenoweth, opened recently at the St. James Theatre in New York. This ambitious production is based on the documentary about the Siegel family’s efforts to build one of America’s largest homes—a 90,000-square-foot mansion in Florida. Set against a backdrop of economic disparity, the show addresses themes of wealth and ambition but falls short of its lofty aspirations.
The Story Behind “The Queen of Versailles”
Jackie Siegel, played by Kristin Chenoweth, represents a rags-to-riches narrative. She aspires to create a palace reminiscent of Versailles after a humble upbringing in upstate New York. The musical attempts to explore her journey and ambitions but struggles to connect with audiences.
Main Characters
- Jackie Siegel: The ambitious protagonist, portrayed by Kristin Chenoweth.
- David Siegel: Jackie’s husband and timeshare mogul, played by Oscar winner F. Murray Abraham.
- Victoria: Jackie’s disapproving daughter, represented by Nina White.
- Jonquil: Jackie’s adopted niece, performed by Tatum Grace Hopkins.
Production Details
Directed by Michael Arden, the musical combines humor and drama but often misses the mark. The show features a mix of musical numbers, such as “Caviar Dreams” and “The Ballad of the Timeshare King,” which have received criticism for their lack of depth and coherence. Critics suggest the score might be one of Stephen Schwartz’s weakest efforts.
Critical Reception
The review of “The Queen of Versailles” highlights a disjointed narrative and poorly developed characters. Jackie Siegel’s portrayal feels superficial, leaving audiences uncertain if they should empathize with her or view her critically. Furthermore, the musical’s pacing suffers, especially in Act 2, which delves into family dynamics but ultimately fails to engage viewers.
The Future of the Musical
The production, facing criticism for its storytelling and overall execution, may face challenges in sustaining audience interest. Although set against a backdrop of grand aspirations, “The Queen of Versailles” reflects more of a struggle than a triumphant celebration of the American Dream. As Jackie Siegel’s house remains unfinished, it raises the question: will this Broadway musical meet a similar fate?
With its ambitious themes and high-profile lead, “The Queen of Versailles” attempts to tackle complex subjects but does so with careless execution. The question remains whether the show will find its footing or be scheduled for an early exit.
