Beaches: A Musical Journey of Friendship and Resilience
"Beaches" has made its way from the big screen to the stage as a new musical production at the Majestic Theater. The show features a nostalgic moment where the characters of Bertie and Cee Cee, along with their younger selves, come together to sing a heartfelt song. However, the transition from film to theater proves challenging as the actors' performances are live and in-person, making any missteps more apparent.
The musical, based on the book by Thom Thomas and Iris Rainier Dart, delves into the lives of Bertie and Cee Cee as they navigate through various stages of their friendship. The first act is filled with numerous scenes that aim to establish the characters' backgrounds but may come across as drawn out. The dynamic between the sassy Cee Cee and the naive Bertie adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, but some dialogue choices may feel outdated or uncomfortable.
As the story progresses into the second act, the focus shifts to Bertie's battle with cancer, bringing a more cohesive narrative to the forefront. The music, composed by Mike Stoller, offers a mix of tunes that serve the storyline adequately, though the lyrics by Iris Rainier Dart may not reach the same level of catchiness as Stoller's previous works. Despite this, the show concludes with the iconic song "Wind Beneath My Wings," a fitting end to the emotional journey.
With two directors at the helm, Lonny Price and Matt Cowart, "Beaches" attempts to capture the essence of the beloved film while adding a new dimension to the story on stage. While the transition may not fully capture the campy charm of the original movie, the musical adaptation offers a fresh perspective on the enduring friendship between Bertie and Cee Cee.
In conclusion, "Beaches" the musical brings a mix of nostalgia and new interpretations to the beloved story of friendship and resilience. While some aspects may fall short of the original film's appeal, the live performances and heartfelt moments on stage offer a unique experience for audiences to enjoy.