The highly anticipated musical adaptation of “The Queen of Versailles,” directed by Michael Arden and featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, has made its Broadway debut, drawing mixed reviews. Starring Kristin Chenoweth as Jackie Siegel, this production aims to capture the lavish lifestyle and the underlying complexities of the Siegels’ American dream. However, while it boasts considerable talent and ambition, the show has not fully realized its potential.
Inspired by Lauren Greenfield’s 2012 documentary, “The Queen of Versailles,” which explored the extravagant lives of the Siegel family and their colossal unfinished mansion project in Orlando, the musical attempts to navigate themes of wealth, excess, and personal struggles. The story takes audiences back to Jackie’s early life, highlighting her ascent from humble beginnings to the heights of affluence, punctuated by the financial crash of 2008 that threatened to dismantle their empire.
Despite its elaborate set design by Dane Laffrey and Chenoweth’s charismatic performance, the musical suffers from a lack of a clear narrative perspective. Critics note that the adaptation overestimates audience empathy for Jackie, particularly in a contemporary context where public perception of the Siegels has changed dramatically since the film’s release. The show’s exploration of wealth disparity, juxtaposed with Jackie’s trials and triumphs, feels somewhat disconnected and fails to engage the audience profoundly.
Schwartz’s musical score highlights his signature style with vibrant melodies and playful lyrics. The music features a variety of genres that reflect Jackie’s character, from upbeat numbers showcasing her ambitions to more introspective pieces that hint at her struggles. However, the overall cohesion of the score is questioned; while individual songs shine, they don’t seem to create a harmonious experience that elevates the narrative.
Additionally, the production’s design choices have received criticism for inconsistency, with elements of the set appearing cluttered and mismatched. This lack of visual coherence mirrors the musical’s storytelling, leaving viewers with an experience that feels piecemeal rather than fully integrated.
“The Queen of Versailles” harbors an ambitious vision, along with the charming performances that can engage audiences. Nevertheless, it struggles to deliver a compelling narrative that resonates with viewers in a meaningful way. As it stands, the musical may face challenges in sustaining a long run on Broadway, yet it offers an insightful reflection on the complexities of wealth and identity in America.