The Broadway musical The Queen of Versailles, featuring Kristin Chenoweth in the lead role, is set to conclude its run at the St. James Theatre on January 4, 2026. This announcement comes after less than three months of performances, with the show initially opening on November 9. The production will have completed a total of 65 regular performances along with 32 previews by the time it closes.
Producers shared the news on November 24, acknowledging the mixed reviews the show received upon opening. Despite a recent uptick in box office receipts, reaching over $1 million in the last two weeks, the lack of advance ticket sales has been suggested as a potential reason for its premature ending. The musical industry on Broadway has faced significant challenges in recent years, making it increasingly difficult for new works, even those with star backing like Chenoweth, to find sustained success.
The Queen of Versailles, which boasts music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and is directed by Tony Award-winning Michael Arden, is based on Lauren Greenfield’s 2012 documentary. The show draws inspiration from the life of Jackie Siegel, a Florida socialite, who has not yet inhabited her unfinished $100 million mansion in Orlando—an endeavor that mirrors the struggles depicted in the narrative, particularly the impact of the 2008 financial crisis.
Accompanying Chenoweth in the cast is F. Murray Abraham, who portrays her husband, the late timeshare mogul David Siegel. The ensemble also features a talented group including Melody Butiu, Stephen DeRosa, and Sherie Rene Scott, with Chenoweth delivering a standout performance that showcases her vocal range and emotional depth. Critics have noted her ability to navigate the complexities of the character, moving away from her typical comedic style to explore Jackie Siegel’s multilayered persona.
As audiences prepare for the final weeks of performances, tickets to The Queen of Versailles are available now, offering the chance to witness a captivating portrayal of ambition, dreams, and the realities of the American experience.