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We don’t age in NYC, but if we did, the new musical adaptation of ‘Death Becomes Her’ is a hilarious and campy take on aging. Taking over the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, this show is a high-octane, glitter-drenched tribute to the 1992 cult classic, proving that while “youth is fleeting,” a rivalry is forever.
Starring the powerhouse duo of Betsy Wolfe (Madeline Ashton) and Jennifer Simard (Helen Sharp), the show breathes new life (ironic, we know) into the iconic roles of the competitive Maddy and Hel. It’s a love letter to the vanity, obsession, and dark humor that only New Yorkers—who would probably sell their souls for a rent-stabilized apartment and eternal high cheekbones—can truly appreciate.
A Visual Feast of Staging & Special Effects
How do you translate “neck snapping” and “stomach holes” to a live stage? With sheer theatrical wizardry. The production doesn’t shy away from the movie’s graphic-yet-glamorous body horror. Expect:
- Fabulous Costumes: Think feathers, sequins, and silhouettes that scream Old Hollywood glamour.
- Mind-Bending Illusions: The practical effects used to simulate the “undead” antics of the lead duo are worth the ticket price alone.
- Show-Stopping Songs & Choreography: High-energy numbers that make “living forever” look like a total blast—even if your head is facing the wrong way.
The “Purple” Magic of Viola Van Horn
While Madeline and Helen fight for center stage, the mysterious Viola Van Horn (played by the captivating Michelle Williams, (depending on the cast cycle) holds the key to the fountain of youth.
We saw Ximone Rose, and her powerhouse voice sent chills down our spine. The set design for Viola’s lair are equal parts gothic cathedral and high-end Chelsea gallery.
Why New Yorkers are Obsessed
This isn’t just a trip down memory lane for fans of the film; it’s a celebration of fun and exaggerated theater at its finest, which results in ultimate hilarity. In a city that prides itself on humor and sometimes being “too much,” ‘Death Becomes Her’ fits right in.
It’s the perfect show for a girls’ night out, a date who appreciates the macabre, or anyone who just wants to see two divas go head-to-head in the most literal sense. (Don’t say we didn’t warn you.)
Know Before You Go
- Location: Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 W 46th St
- The Vibe: High-glam, hilarious, and unapologetically loud
- Pro-Tip: Arrive early to snag some themed merch—because like the potion itself, the best stuff goes fast.
Whether you’re in it for nostalgia or the sheer spectacle of Broadway magic, “Death Becomes Her” is a reminder that even if you can’t live forever, you can certainly have a hell of a time trying.