Marty McFly is a rock 'n' roll teenager who is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown. But before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence.
But for anyone who truly loves theater, or film, or understands why they are separate art forms to begin with, the production is somewhat unsettling. In a time where it feels increasingly difficult to push original stories forward, this adaptation – and its estimated $23.5 million budget – do not alleviate the struggle. It is hard to believe it was created by artists with a real passion for musical theater, as evidenced by its prioritization of sensational effects over thoughtful writing. Nonetheless, its producers have no obligation to save the integrity of performing arts. So, if they wanted to unite fans of a 1980s classic, they did their job well.
It’s fair to say that the success relies completely on longtime devotees of the films and the kids they bring with them, because this musical works only as fan service. For the critical — hey, it’s my job — there’s more pleasure to be had appreciating the nostalgia-driven joy of the audience than there is in what’s on stage, which is all frantic adrenaline.
2021 | West End |
West End Premiere West End |
2021 | West End |
West End |
2023 | Broadway |
Original Broadway Production Broadway |
2024 | US Tour |
North American Tour US Tour |
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