The popular musical The Queen of Versailles, featuring Kristin Chenoweth, is set to conclude its run at the St. James Theatre on January 4. Directed by Michael Arden, this Broadway production boasts music and lyrics by the renowned Stephen Schwartz and a book penned by Lindsey Ferrentino. Since its opening on November 9, the show has garnered largely negative reviews.
The Queen of Versailles is based on Lauren Greenfield’s acclaimed 2012 documentary and draws inspiration from the lives of billionaire couple Jackie and David Siegel. Chenoweth takes center stage as Jackie Siegel, alongside seasoned actor F. Murray Abraham in the role of her husband, David Siegel. The cast further includes Melody Butiu, Stephen DeRosa, Greg Hildreth, Tatum Grace Hopkins, Isabel Keating, and Nina White, among others, creating a diverse ensemble.
The musical originated from a world premiere engagement at Boston’s Emerson Colonial Theatre in August 2024 and has been characterized as a “Greek tragedy dressed up as an episode of The Real Housewives of Orlando” by critics.
The creative team behind the production includes music director Mary-Mitchell Campbell, choreographers Lauren Yalango-Grant and Christopher Cree Grant, scenic and video designer Dane Laffrey, costume designer Christian Cowan, and lighting designer Natasha Katz, alongside a talented sound and wig design team.
As the curtain falls on this production, it leaves audiences with a unique blend of drama and humor, spotlighting the fascinating yet tumultuous lifestyles of the Siegel family. While the musical may not have achieved the acclaim many hoped for, its artistry and cast performances still provide an engaging theatrical experience.