Broadway in Cincinnati - Preview 2023-2024

BOB DYLAN'S TUNES BROUGHT TO GLORIOUS LIFE IN GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

On sale now September 5 – 17, 2023

On sale now October 17 – 29, 2023

On sale now November 14 – 19, 2023

5

On sale 10/20 January 16 – 28, 2024

On sale 10/27

February 20 – 25, 2024

On sale 11/10 May 14 – 19, 2024

GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

OCTOBER 17–29, 2023

GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY: BOB DYLAN’S ICONIC SONGS FIND NEW LIFE ON BROADWAY

Girl From the North Country, the acclaimed Broadway musical, brings together the poetic genius of Bob Dylan’s music with the compelling storytelling of playwright Conor McPherson. Set in 1930s Minnesota, the show weaves together the lives of a diverse group of individuals struggling with their own hopes, dreams, and heartaches. With a hauntingly beautiful score featuring Dylan’s iconic songs, Girl From the North Country offers a unique and profound experience that transcends time and resonates with audiences.

At the heart of the musical lies McPherson’s captivating storytelling. The narrative unfolds in the timespan of a week around Thanksgiving in a boarding house where disparate characters find themselves seeking refuge from

various storms of life. Each character is fleshed out with depth and nuance, as their stories intersect and collide, revealing the human struggles we all face as the musical delves into themes of love, loss, and redemption.

After deciding that he wanted to write a musical about a boarding house in Minnesota in the 1930s with Dylan’s discography to serve as the music, McPherson set to writing a few pages to give Dylan a taste of what the production would look like. The response? A message back that Dylan really liked the idea, wanted McPherson to proceed, and gave him total freedom to his entire catalogue.

“They sent all of his albums to my house,” McPherson told Broadway.com. “So, there were like 50 albums. The way that I did it was,

if I liked a song, I thought, ‘Well, I’ll put that in.’ “

Bob Dylan’s music has always been deeply evocative and introspective, and in Girl From the North Country, his songs find new life. Through Dylan’s timeless lyrics and melodies, the characters’ emotions and dilemmas are brought to the forefront. Songs like “Like a Rolling Stone,” “Forever Young,” and the titular “Girl From the North Country” are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the storytelling and giving voice to the characters’ innermost desires and conflicts.

“In a way, you’re being drawn into the inner life of the character and it’s almost like their inner life is dream-like in a funny way,” McPherson said to Broadway.com, regarding the integration of Dylan’s

songs into the story. “It feels like you’re getting to know the character’s inner soul, so it deeps it rather than moving it forward.”

When creating the sound for the musical, orchestrator Simon Hale was very adamant that all the instruments used in the show must be from the 1930s, since that was the musical’s setting. The Tony Award–winning arrangements, expertly crafted by Hale, breathe fresh life into Dylan’s catalog, showcasing the versatility and universality of his music.

Director Conor McPherson’s vision is beautifully realized through Rae Smith’s stunning set design, which captures the bleak yet intimate atmosphere of Depression-era Minnesota. The lighting design by Mark Henderson further enhances the mood and tone, creating haunting and evocative stage pictures.

Since its premiere at London’s Old Vic Theatre in 2017, Girl From the North Country has received critical acclaim for its innovative

ABOUT THE SHOW

approach to musical storytelling. The show made its way to Broadway in 2020 but was forced to shutter during the pandemic. When Broadway returned in the fall of 2021, Girl From the North Country reopened and it garnered numerous accolades, including several Tony Award nominations.

The musical’s success lies in its ability to appeal to both Dylan enthusiasts and theater lovers. Dylan’s fans appreciate the new interpretations of his beloved songs, while theatergoers are captivated by the show’s emotional depth and powerful performances. Girl From the North Country has proven to be a unique and timeless theatrical experience that resonates with audiences across generations.

“I saw [Girl From the North Country] as an anonymous spectator, not as someone who had anything to do with it,” Dylan said in an interview with The New York Times. “I just let it happen. The play had me crying at the end. I can’t even say why. When the

curtain came down, I was stunned. I really was.”

Girl From the North Country stands as a testament to the enduring power of Bob Dylan’s music and the transformative potential of theater. Through its mesmerizing storytelling, powerful performances, and the iconic soundtrack, the musical creates an unforgettable journey that leaves a lasting impact on all who experience it.

“It’s like you’re hearing these stories and then you’re getting the music,” McPherson said. “And I guess all theatre is like that in a way. We’re just inviting that contemplation. We’re just inviting you to join with a community in the theatre. But what you’re all doing together is going on your own internal journey.”

LEARN MORE

It’s 1934 in Duluth, Minnesota. We meet a group of wayward travelers whose lives intersect in a guesthouse filled with music, life, and hope. Girl From the North Country is the Tony Award®-winning new musical that the Chicago Tribune declares is ”a Broadway revelation!” Written and directed by celebrated playwright Conor McPherson and featuring Tony Award®-winning orchestrations by Simon Hale, Girl From the North Country reimagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan as they’ve never been heard before, including “Forever Young,” “All Along The Watchtower,” “Hurricane,” “Slow Train Coming,” and “Like A Rolling Stone.” Experience this “profoundly beautiful” production (The New York Times) brought to vivid life by an extraordinary company of actors and musicians.

PHOTOGRAPH: TODD ALMOND AND THE CAST OF GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY ON BROADWAY, BY MATTHEW MURPHY

DECEMBER 5–17, 2023

MRS. DOUBTFIRE TO FEATURE TONY NOMINEE ROB MCCLURE, REPRISING TITLE ROLE

Mrs. Doubtfire, the beloved 1993 film that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, has been reborn as an endearing new family musical. This delightful adaptation takes the endearing story of love, family, and self-discovery to new heights with its catchy songs, talented cast, and memorable performances—most notably a tourde-force turn by Tony nominee Rob McClure, who drew rave reviews for his portrayal of Daniel Hilliard/ Euphegenia Doubtfire on Broadway and will reprise that role on tour in Cincinnati.

The musical adaptation of Mrs. Doubtfire brings the heart and soul of the original film to the stage. Retaining the essence of the beloved story, the musical expands upon the narrative, enriching it with new

songs, vibrant choreography, and a fresh perspective, breathing new life into the tale while remaining faithful to the core elements that made the film so beloved.

One of the standout features of the Mrs. Doubtfire musical is its incredible score. Composed by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick (whose work was most recently seen here at the Aronoff in Something Rotten! ), the music is a fusion of catchy tunes and heartfelt ballads. The songs effortlessly capture the emotions and inner struggles of the characters, elevating the storytelling.

The success of the Mrs. Doubtfire musical rests heavily on the shoulders of its talented cast. McClure, who enjoyed standing ovations each performance

on Broadway, brings a perfect balance of humor, vulnerability, and warmth to the iconic role of Mrs. Doubtfire. With remarkable skill and attention to detail—not to mention a jaw-dropping number of quick-changes—McClure flawlessly transitions between the charmingly eccentric nanny and the lovable but imperfect father, delivering a performance that is both charming and heartfelt.

To add to the special heart of the Broadway touring production, another Broadway favorite, renowned actress and McClure’s wife-in-real-life Maggie Lakis will play the role of Miranda Hillard in the show. Both Lakis and McClure were last seen at the Aronoff in the touring Broadway production Something Rotten! in 2017 and will

embark on tour together again this year. “We’ll be getting divorced eight times a week on stage across the country,” noted Lakis in a Facebook greeting from the couple to the show’s fans. “It’s a good thing we like each other in real life,” added McClure.

“It is a very rare and special event when the star of a Broadway musical takes the show on the road,” said Mrs. Doubtfire producer Kevin McCollum. “Rob won the hearts of theatregoers and huge critical acclaim for creating one of the great musical comedy roles in Broadway history. I am thrilled that audiences across the country are not only going to be able to laugh and tear-up at Rob’s landmark performance, but also see a magical onstage chemistry with Maggie. Our show is all about family, so to have Rob and Maggie leading this on the road, it couldn’t be more perfect.”

Cincinnati audiences will be in good hands when they catch this story of love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family this December.

ABOUT THE SHOW

A new musical comedy about the things we do to stay together. Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Cincinnati in an internationally acclaimed new hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film and directed by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks, Mrs. Doubtfire tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune —one that proves we’re better together.

JANUARY 16–28, 2024

THIS ONE’S FOR THE FANS

By Page Leggett

Connor Gallagher knew fans of Beetlejuice, Tim Burton’s overthe-top 1998 movie, would have high expectations of the musical adaptation. But the choreographer also knew there would be audience members who had never seen the source material, and he had to wow them, too.

Burton’s sweet but outré story concerns Lydia Deetz, an unusual teenager who’s grieving her recently deceased mother while also trying to get her dad to pay attention to her. The comically demonic Beetlejuice serves as both character and narrator. He breaks the fourth wall to speak directly to the audience and enlist us in his plans.

With music and lyrics by Eddie

ABOUT THE SHOW

He earned his stripes on Broadway…now the ghost-with-the-most is coming to Cincinnati.

It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, Beetlejuice is “SCREAMINGLY GOOD FUN!” (Variety). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

Perfect and a book by Scott Brown and Anthony King, the musical also features a couple, Barbara and Adam Maitland, who fall to their deaths early in the show. Beetlejuice coerces them to haunt their former home’s new residents—the

Dietz family. The Maitlands aren’t very scary, so they prove unsuccessful at haunting.

It’s that combination of (light-hearted) horror and comedy that has endeared Beetlejuice to fans for 35 years. It’s not everyone

Beetlejuice choreographer Connor Gallagher aims to please diehard devotees of the film—and welcome new ones into the fold.

who can look at grief with a sense of humor, but Burton manages the feet.

THE MOVIE ON STEROIDS

“I wanted to tip our hat to fans and welcome those who are new to the story,” Gallagher says. “We had to hit all the moments that made the movie special and memorable for so many—but also expand it for a new medium.” The musical is not a rehash of the movie. “Very often, with films adapted for the stage, you see a version of the movie on stage,” he says. “Here, Act I sticks pretty closely to the movie, but Act II feels almost like a fan fiction expansion of it.”

“It’s the already oddball movie on steroids,” Gallagher says. “That’s something people really enjoy about our show: it’s unexpected. It’s not what we traditionally see in a movie adaptation.”

Gallagher’s biggest challenge: adapting the material in a way that spoke to as many people as many people as possible. “This was a cult film—even when it first came out,” he says. “And it was only Tim Burton’s second film [after Pee Wee’s Big Adventure]; we were really just getting to know him as a filmmaker.” The movie quickly became known for its “visual style and kookiness,” he says. The musical had to retain the kookiness while saying something new.

Accomplishing that took a coordinated effort. “We are dealing with ghosts and paranormal activity and people who can shape-

shift,” Gallagher says. “It required an uncommon level of collaboration among the illusion, puppet, costume, lighting designers and me.”

Besides being inspired by Burton’s colorful lunacy, Gallagher leaned into the musical score.

“The score is so eclectic,” he says. “Part of that is because Beetlejuice the character has lived through many decades and eras of music. So many shows I do sit squarely in one specific style. But this show has elements of rap and ska; traditional old-school Broadway; and vaudeville-type music.

The variety gave Gallagher a big playground in which to create.

Something else about the show led Gallagher to an epiphany. “Because the show is built on the actor’s personalities, the comedy they bring to the piece inspired the work. If you saw Beetlejuice on Broadway or have seen any iteration of the show, it’s always going to be a little bit different depending on who’s playing the roles. The actors bring so much to the show.”

FROM A HAUNTED HOUSE TO THE NETHERWORLD

It’s fun for the performers, too— which is not to say that dances are a cakewalk. Gallagher challenges performers with some manic maneuvers.

“That Beautiful Sound” at the top of Act II may be the biggest hurdle they face. “It’s a stamina challenge,” he says. “Beetlejuice has cloned himself, and all the Bee-

tlejuices appear out of nowhere, and they have a giant house party with Lydia. It’s the first time Beetlejuice and Lydia really connect.”

“These Beetlejuices are almost like The Walking Dead,” he adds. “They can bounce off walls. They’re walking on their hands and doing some extremely challenging lifts and singing all at the same time. And that number just goes on and on.”

“I’m a dancer as well,” he continues. “And I’ve been in many shows where there’s a chorus-line aspect to the dances. It’s all uniformity, about blending in as part of an ensemble.”

This is not that

This is about standing out. Gallagher asked the actors to bring their own personalities to their roles. It’s a rare challenge, he says—one that requires comedic chops as well as dance expertise.

“Beetlejuice is a sort of hybrid of stand-up comedy and improvisation,” he added. “So even if you come to the show multiple times, it will be a little different every night. That’s really special. I’m excited for audiences to experience it.”

If you’re not a fan already, you likely will be after seeing what Gallagher and his creative co-conspirators have conjured.

PHOTOGRAPH: ISABELLA ESLER (LYDIA), BY MATTHEW MURPHY, 2022

BRINGING ALADDIN TO THE STAGE

By Courtney Potter

Early in the evolution of Aladdin, composer Alan Menken, book writer and lyricist Chad Beguelin, and director/choreographer Casey Nicholaw got together to write a brand-new song for the stage musical—a unique collaboration that could only happen on Broadway. “We needed to write a new song for the Genie, [for] when he’s going to free Aladdin from the dungeon in Act II. And we wrote this song called ‘Somebody’s Got Your Back.’ It was just one of these old-fashioned theater moments where you lock three people in a room. I run over to the piano and try an idea; Casey gets up and gets kind of a movement idea; and Chad shouts out lyric ideas...and within a half an hour, we had the beginning of this song. And we’re very proud of it. The best part of the process is always the initial creativity, the initial writing—and that was a great moment.”

It’s hard to imagine that the late, great lyricist Howard Ashman wouldn’t be ridiculously pleased with the success of his Disney-based collaborations with longtime songwriting partner Alan Menken. The duo’s iconic scores for the animated films The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast were given continued life as Broadway musicals, seen by millions all over the country and the world. But what about the pair’s last Disney project—1992’s Aladdin? Die-hard fans know Alan and Howard had written 11 songs for the film, only to have most of them cut from early drafts of the screenplay; production was later marred by Howard’s woefully

early passing from AIDS-related complications in 1991. Did any of those original songs still exist? Could a reimagined Aladdin ever make it to Broadway? The answer, thankfully, was “yes”—and the final product joins several of Howard Ashman’s original ideas for the film with brand-new, wholly theatrical notions from the musical’s bluechip creative team.

It all started when Tony-nominated lyricist Chad Beguelin (The Prom, The Wedding Singer, Elf ) was asked to help put together a draft of a stage version of Aladdin When Menken saw Beguelin’s initial draft, he realized the time was right to resurrect the film’s little-heard deleted songs and debut them to a new generation. Beguelin explains: “The task was to create Aladdin ‘the new stage musical,’ but also integrate these lost songs—which are really wonderful. It was like putting together a musical puzzle.” While a host of new or previously-unheard songs take flight, fans can expect all their favorites—including the Menken/

ABOUT THE SHOW

Tim Rice Oscar®-winner “A Whole New World” and a totally swingin’ version of “Friend Like Me.”

Bringing Aladdin to Broadway was a memorable experience, even for stage adaptation-maestro Menken. “Coming to the show was like opening up, in a sense, a treasure trove—or a ‘Cave of Wonders,’ if you will—of material that was intended for the animated movie,” he says. Ultimately, Casey says audiences hail the “new” Menken/Ashman tunes and the new Menken/Beguelin songs and fully embrace this fresh, joyful take on a classic. “It’s about keeping all the stuff that everyone loves from the movie and in order to get it on stage, giving it a musical-comedy heart.”

This article originally ran in Disney twenty-three, a publication of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club.

Discover a whole new world at Disney’s Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical. From the producer of The Lion King comes the timeless story of Aladdin, a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy, and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite.

Hailed by USA Today as “Pure Genie-Us,” Aladdin features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony® and Academy Award® winner Alan Menken (Newsies) with lyrics penned by the legendary Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast), Tony Award® winner Tim Rice (The Lion King, Aida), and book writer Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer). See why audiences and critics agree, Aladdin is “Exactly What You Wish For!” (NBC-TV).

PETER PAN : A TIMELESS MUSICAL IGNITES IMAGINATION WITH FRESH PERSPECTIVESS

In the realm of musical theater, few stories have captivated audiences as effortlessly as Peter Pan. Based on J.M. Barrie’s beloved novel, this enchanting tale of a boy who never grows up has become a timeless classic.

At its core, Peter Pan is a story that celebrates the joys of childhood and the power of imagination. Audiences are whisked away to the enchanting world of Neverland, where they join Peter, Wendy Darling, Tiger Lily, and the Lost Boys on a grand adventure. Whether it’s the excitement of sword fights or the tender bonds of friendship, Peter Pan transports audiences of all ages to a place where dreams come alive.

One of the enduring strengths of Peter Pan lies in its rich cast of characters. Peter himself is the embodiment of eternal youth, exuding charm and mischievousness. Wendy Darling brings a sense of nurturing and maturity, while Captain Hook is a larger-than-life villain with a touch of theatrical flair. Tinker Bell, with her fiery temperament and unwavering loyalty, has become an iconic character in her own right. From the endearing Lost Boys to the dastardly pirates, the characters in Peter Pan leave a lasting impression on audiences, creating a tapestry of personalities that add depth and dimension to

ABOUT THE SHOW

the musical.

However, historically the show portrayed some characters with harmful and negative portrayals of Native Americans and Native culture. That’s why the producers asked renowned Native American playwright Larissa FastHorse to rewrite the book to bring new perspective to the characters.

“The opportunity to bring the magic of Peter Pan to families, all kinds of families, around the country is a dream come true for me,” said FastHorse on her LinkedIn page. “I’ve spent a lot of time speaking with the creative team, producers, and fans of Peter Pan I’ve done research on every draft and recorded version to learn what people love about this piece, and where the heart is. When Peter and Tink fly again, I can promise you two things: If you were harmed by Peter Pan before, you will not be again. And if you loved Peter Pan, you will recognize the things you loved and get to share them with the next generation, and hopefully many more.”

This production will have the music fans of the national touring productions have known and loved. Composed by the talented duo Jule Styne and Carolyn Leigh in 1950, the musical features a delightful score that perfectly complements the whimsical nature

of the story. The iconic songs, such as “I’m Flying,” “I Won’t Grow Up,” and “Never Never Land,” have become beloved classics in the musical theater canon.

A crucial aspect of Peter Pan’s enduring charm is the visual spectacle it presents. From the first moment the Darling children take flight to the swashbuckling battles with Captain Hook, the musical showcases fantastical set designs and technical feats. The iconic image of Peter Pan and the Darling children soaring above the audience has become a defining moment of the production, eliciting awe and wonder. The set designs transport viewers seamlessly from the Darling nursery to the enchanting landscapes of Neverland, bringing the story to life in vivid detail.

Peter Pan continues to captivate hearts and ignite the imagination of audiences worldwide. With its timeless storytelling, unforgettable characters, enchanting music, and awe-inspiring production values, this musical has stood the test of time.

LEARN MORE

This high-flying musical has been delighting audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new production directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price with additional book by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse. The adventure begins when Peter Pan and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinker Bell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night. With a sprinkle of pixie dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a magical journey they will never forget. This extraordinary musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up,” and “Neverland.” Peter Pan embraces the child in us all, so go on a journey from the second star to the right and straight on ’til morning—your entire family will be Hooked!

FROM

THE TABLETOP TO THE STAGE: A TIMELESS CLASSIC THAT KEEPS AUDIENCES GUESSING

Mrs. Peacock. In the Library. With the candlestick. Or is it Professor Plum, in the Ballroom, with the rope?

Board games have long been a source of entertainment and intellectual challenge, but few have achieved the level of enduring popularity as the timeless classic, Clue. Originally created by Anthony E. Pratt in 1944, Clue was named the fifth best-selling board game in America according to the Baltimore Sun in 2023.

At the heart of the game of Clue lies its appealing gameplay, which combines deductive reasoning, strategy, and an element of luck. Set in an English country house in the midst of a murder mystery, players assume the roles of various suspects, each with their own distinctive personalities and motives. The objective is to solve the mystery by deducing the murderer, the murder weapon, and the location of the crime. With multiple suspects, weapons, and rooms, the game provides an almost infinite number of combinations, ensuring that no two games are ever the same.

The success of Clue as a board game naturally led to its adaptation into various forms of enter-

tainment media, including books, movies, and television shows. However, one of the most noteworthy adaptations is its transition to the stage.

The stage adaptation of Clue faithfully recreates the suspenseful atmosphere of the board game. The setting remains the same—an English country house—and the characters embody their iconic personalities, from the shrewd Miss Scarlet to the bumbling Colonel Mustard. The audience gets immersed in the mystery as they join the characters in their quest to solve the crime.

Clue, with timeless intrigue and appeal, has solidified its status as a beloved classic that continues to entertain audiences across generations. Its delightful transition from the tabletop to the stage further highlights its versatility and endur-

ABOUT THE SHOW

ing charm. Whether on the board or in the theater, Clue remains a captivating experience that keeps audiences guessing.

“I am delighted that Clue is embarking upon a National Tour,” Playwright Sandy Rustin says. “To play a small part in bringing laughter and fun to audiences, after such a challenging couple of years, is my total joy. I hope that the tour of this play leaves a trail of happy people across the country. Because Clue premiered at Cleveland Playhouse, it’s only fitting that it would find its way back to Ohio! I hope Cincinnati audiences have a great time at the theatre!”

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

THE BOOK OF MORMON IS A GLOBAL PHENOMENON

Not just any musical wins nine Tony Awards, a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, and tours in 13 countries around the world, all while playing to packed audiences on Broadway for over 11 years. But then, The Book of Mormon, a musical comedy by South Par k creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q co-creator/ Frozen composer Robert Lopez, is not just any musical. The comedy has been seen by over 19 million audience members globally, with over 12,000 performances worldwide.

The conception of The Book of Mormon began after Parker and Stone met with Lopez after a performance of Avenue Q. They discovered a mutual interest in tell-

ABOUT THE SHOW

ing a story about Joseph Smith and the Mormon religion. A short time after that initial meeting, Lopez, Parker, and Stone took a trip to Salt Lake City for inspiration, and The Book of Mormon musical was born.

The musical follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. When The Book of Mormon opened on Broadway in 2011, after nearly seven years of development, it instantly became a mega-hit. One of Broadway’s Legacy shows, and now in its 12th year of performances, it just celebrated its 4,000th performance, one of only four shows in Broadway history to achieve that goal. It has set house records at the Eugene O’Neill Thea-

The New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show calls it "Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal." It’s The Book of Mormon, the ninetime Tony Award® winning Best Musical. This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. With standing room only productions in London, on Broadway, and across North America, The Book of Mormon has truly become an international sensation. Contains explicit language

tre more than 50 times. Since then, The Book of Mormon has played in 40 U.S. states, six Canadian provinces and 134 cities across the globe. Critics dubbed the production “the funniest musical of all time” and the “best musical of this century.” In 2013, The Book of Mormon opened at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London’s West End. The day after opening the show grossed a record $3.2 million—the highest single sales day in West End and Broadway history. The West End production subsequently won four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical. The Book of Mormon has also toured in Australia, Ireland, Sweden, Germany, and more.

What Stone, Parker, and Lopez have created is a show that has influenced and entertained multiple generations. Audiences continue to enjoy an evening of humor and heart. The Book of Mormon is more than a success. It is now a global phenomenon.

A REVOLUTIONARY SHOW THAT REIGNS SUPREME

In the world of musical theater, one show has taken the world by storm with its infectious tunes, powerful storytelling, and empowering message. SIX has swiftly risen to become a sensational hit, captivating audiences around the globe. With its unique blend of history, contemporary pop music, and an all-female cast, this innovative production reimagines the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives.

SIX, with book, music, and lyrics by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, is a modern retelling of the lives of the six wives of Henry VIII presented as a pop concert, as the Queens take turns singing and telling their stories to see who suffered the most due to Henry and should, therefore, become the group’s lead singer.

A quick history lesson in case you’ve forgotten: Henry VIII—King of England from 1509 until his

death in 1547—had a driving desire for a male heir. This pursuit led him to divorce two wives and have two wives beheaded; it led to religious revolution and the creation of the Church of England, the Dissolution of the Monasteries, and the Reformation. The decisions that Henry made during his reign would shape Britain’s history all the way up to the present.

But to paraphrase the queens of SIX, the average person probably wouldn’t know much about Henry VIII today if it weren’t for his wives. So Marlow and Moss thought it was time to give them their due.

“Lucy and I were at Cambridge together,” remembers Marlow. “In 2017 the Cambridge University Musical Theatre Society asked for applications to take an original musical to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, so I applied. When I got the gig I asked Lucy to write it with

me. I said, ‘I have an idea for a pop concert musical with the six wives of Henry VIII. Do you want to write it with me?’ ”Since that extraordinary Edinburgh Fringe debut, the show went to the West End in London and now has played Broadway, Australia, and various international tours.

The Queens you see in the show are influenced by three things: the historical Queens, pop icons, and the performers playing them. “SIX is told by the wives of Henry VIII—but as a girl group performing a pop concert for an audience,” says Moss. “They’re sick and tired of everyone arguing over who’s the most important wife, and the Queens decide to hold a competition between them: whoever had the worst time in her marriage to Henry VIII will be crowned the leading lady of the girl group. The pop concert consists of

ABOUT THE SHOW

From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons,

heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl

tion that everyone is losing their head over!

SIX has won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the

Award® for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. The New York Times says SIX “totally rules!” (Critic’s Pick) and The

kind of energizing, inspirational illumination this town aches for!”

each Queen singing a solo in order to stake a claim for the spotlight— but, without wanting to give too much away, not everything goes according to plan.”

In their formative discussions about the show, Moss and Marlow developed a plan to act as a guidepost as they created the musical. Their aims were: to provide a different perspective on the six Queens separate from their status as wives, giving the female historical figures a voice to tell their own experiences; to show that even 500 years later there are still parallels to be found in the female experience; to use the pop concert genre to enable this fun, silly, comic, and powerful story to be told exclusively by women; and ultimately to do it while acknowledging the silliness and campiness of the pop concert genre.

The musical they ultimately

created turns history on its head by placing the focus on the wives. Each queen takes the stage to reclaim her story through electrifying pop anthems. From Catherine of Aragon to Catherine Parr, the audience is introduced to these iconic historical figures with a contemporary twist. SIX celebrates the strength, resilience, and agency of these women, giving them a voice that had long been silenced by history.

One of the defining features of SIX is its sensational soundtrack. The songs are infused with modern pop elements, showcasing the remarkable talent of Marlow and Moss as songwriters. From the infectious opening number, “ExWives,” to the rousing finale, “Six,” each song stays with the audience long after the show ends. The lyrics are witty and sharp, blending historical references with contem-

porary language, creating a seamless fusion of past and present.

SIX has become a groundbreaking phemonenon, one that is currently on-stage on Broadway in New York City, in London’s West End, in Seoul, and on North American and UK tours. By giving a voice to historical figures often relegated to the shadows, SIX inspires audiences with its celebration of female empowerment and resilience. This revolutionary show continues to reign supreme, giving audiences a royally fun experience along the way.

the six wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical

power! This new original musical is the global sensa-

Tony

Washington Post hails SIX as “Exactly the

THE 23/24 BROADWAY SEASON: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I buy a subscription for the 23/24 season?

Season subscription sales will end in Fall 2023, but single tickets for all shows will be available soon. More information is available at Broadway in Cincinnati.com/Subscriptions

When do individual show tickets go on sale?

MJ, Aladdin, and Girl from the North Country are on sale now. The remaining six shows go on sale between now and November 17, 2023. All shows will be on sale in time for the holidays! Visit BroadwayInCincinnati.com for more info.

Where can I buy tickets?

Broadway in Cincinnati eClub members get first access to tickets through email pre-sales. Signing up from the eClub is free, just visit BroadwayinCincinnati.com/eClub. Once a show is on public sale, single tickets are available through CincinnatiArts.org, the official ticketing site of the Aronoff Center, by calling 513-621-ARTS, or by visiting the Aronoff Center Ticket Office located at 650 Walnut Street downtown.

How do I know if shows are good for kids? Do you have content advisories?

Yes! Please visit BroadwayInCincinnati.com/FamilyGuide for age recommendations and show content information.

Where do Broadway in Cincinnati shows take place?

All shows take place at the Aronoff Center, located at 650 Walnut Street downtown.

KEEP IN TOUCH

CLOCKWISE FROM (L-R): KALEIGH CRONIN, CASEY GARVIN, BRAD OSCAR (FRANK HILLARD), ERICA MANSFIELD, ROB MCCLURE (DANIEL HILLARD), JAQUEZ ANDRÉ SIMS, J. HARRISON GHEE (ANDRE MAYEM), ALÉNA WATTERS, CAMERON ADAMS, AARON KABURICK AND CALVIN L. COOPER IN THE ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST OF MRS. DOUBTFIRE, PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS; SENZEL AHMADY (JASMINE) AND ADI ROY (ALADDIN) FROM THE TOUR OF DISNEY’S ALADDIN , PHOTO BY DEENVAN MEER; THE CAST OF GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY ON BROADWAY. PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY; SEAN CASEY FLANAGAN AND COMPANY IN THE BOOK OF MORMON NORTH AMERICAN TOUR, PHOTO BY JULIETA CERVANTES; BACK ROW (L–R): MICHAEL KOSTROFF (PROFESSOR PLUM) JOHN TREACY EGAN (COLONEL MUSTARD) AND ALEX MANDELL (MR. GREEN); FRONT ROW (L–R): SARAH HOLLIS (MISS SCARLET) DONNA ENGLISH (MRS. WHITE) AND KATHY FITZGE RALD (MRS. PEACOCK), COURTESY OF PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE, PHOTO BY EVAN ZIMMERMAN/MURPHYMADE; AMINA FAYE (JANE SEYMOUR) IN THE NORTH AMERICAN TOUR OF SIX , PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS.